Senators Push For WFH To Save On Transport Costs

Senators are encouraging more work-from-home (WFH) and other flexible work arrangements in government offices and private companies to help save on fuel and transportation costs.

Senators Grace Poe and Sherwin Gatchalian called for the widespread implementation of Republic Act No. 11165 or the Telecommuting Act even as they also cited the Civil Service Commission (CSC) resolution allowing flexible work schedules in government offices.

“Our office may look empty for some but we’re practicing work from home arrangement to save on gas, avoid traffic congestion, save time and eliminate daily commutes,” Gatchalian said, adding that employers can benefit as well due to cost savings.

“This is the new normal and working remotely can prove to be as productive as those working in an office setting. This (WFH) is a huge relief, especially now that fuel prices are nearly P100 per liter,” he said.

Under RA 11165, an employer in the private sector may offer a telecommuting program to employees on a voluntary basis, with such terms and conditions as may mutually be agreed upon.

To promote the flexible work arrangement, Gatchalian intends to pursue the legislation of his proposed tax incentives for employees on a WFH or telecommuting program and income tax deduction for employers.

Senate Bill No. 1706, co-authored by Gatchalian, proposes a reduction of P25 from the taxable income of an employee for every hour of work rendered under a WFH arrangement.

He also proposed to make non-taxable the allowances and other benefits of employees covering expenses necessary for telecommuting, not exceeding P2,000 per month.

Employers, for their part, may claim an additional 50 percent income tax deduction for allowances granted within the specified ceiling, the senator said.

Poe said government agencies would lead the way in implementing beneficial WFH arrangements for civil servants without compromising prompt and reliable delivery of services to all citizens.