No penalty for workers refusing duty in severe weather —DOLE

Workers do not have to risk their safety to report for duty during dangerous weather, as the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reminded private-sector employees that they may refuse to work when floods, heavy rains, or similar conditions pose an imminent danger.

Under Labor Advisory No. 14, Series of 2026, employees who fail or refuse to report for work because of imminent danger caused by weather disturbances and similar occurrences cannot be subjected to administrative sanctions.

DOLE Secretary Francis Tolentino signed the advisory on August 19, updating the rules governing work suspensions in the private sector during severe weather and other disruptive events.

The advisory comes as workers across the country continue to face disruptions from heavy rains, flooding, and other weather-related hazards that place employees who must travel or work in affected areas in potentially dangerous situations.

Employers may suspend work during such conditions in coordination with their safety and health committees, safety officers, or other responsible company officials.

However, workers who stay home because of a work suspension generally will not receive their regular wages under the “no work, no pay” principle. 

They may still receive pay if their company has a more favorable policy or established practice, if a collective bargaining agreement provides for it, or if they use accrued leave credits with their employer’s approval.

Workers who choose to report for duty are entitled to their full regular daily wage if they complete at least six hours of work while those who work for less than six hours are entitled to proportionate pay.

Employers may also provide additional incentives or benefits to workers who report for duty during weather disturbances.

The updated guidelines also emphasize that employers should maintain clear protocols for dangerous weather conditions to protect workers from occupational hazards while ensuring that their rights are respected.

The advisory updates Labor Advisory No. 15, Series of 2025, which established guidelines for protecting workers from imminent danger arising from natural disasters, industrial accidents, public health emergencies, and other disruptive events.

For workers, the updated rules make clear that choosing personal safety during an imminent weather-related danger should not mean facing disciplinary action at work.