THE Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) revealed that it would be difficult for most businesses, especially micro enterprises, to advance the 13th month pay for its employees due to the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a recent interview on radio, ECOP president Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr. said that businesses are struggling, thus making it impossible to advance employees’ 13th month pay. “ The majority can’t advance (the pay); they are struggling.”
Just like what happened last year, many of the micro enterprises had difficulty in providing their employees’ 13th month pay. Various loan facilities were offered to businesses, but they refused to avail for fear of an added financial obligation.
“When we campaigned last year to advance (The 13th month pay), almost everyone followed. This time I don’t know. Many are really struggling,” Ortiz-Luis said.
The Enhanced Community Quarantine will be implemented in Metro Manila until August 20. Even though he is against it, Ortiz-Luis said the group had no choice but to comply.
Ortiz-Luis added that it is both the employees and employers who are suffering from the implementation of the lockdown and the cash aid provided by the government would not be enough.