The Philippines’ House of Representatives yesterday approved on second reading a bill seeking to reduce the weekly work schedule for employees in the private sector, reports the Inquirer.net. The House approved House Bill No. 309 which seeks to allow employees in the private sector to work for 35 hours a week maximum as an alternative work arrangement. In the explanatory note of the bill, Albay 2nd District Rep. Joey Salceda said, “Flexibility in workplaces accommodated the special needs of families, mothers, and older workers. Shorter worker hours saved on utility bills, and resulted in fewer cars on the road during rush hours.”

Under the bill, employers may implement a 35-hour workweek scheme, provided that terms and conditions agreed upon are not less than the minimum labour standards set by law. The employer shall ensure that employees working for 35 hours a week shall: receive the rate of pay, including overtime, night shift differential, and other similar benefits; have the right to rest periods; and be provided by the employer with written information on the terms and conditions of the 35-hour working week scheme and the responsibilities of the employees.