Dole launches 15/30 hotline amid El Niño preparations

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) on Tuesday, Nov. 3, launched a nationwide 24/7 hotline where workers, employers and other stakeholders can report workplace concerns and labor-related violations.

Dubbed “15/30,” the hotline was introduced during the department’s flag-raising ceremony as part of its preparations for the expected El Niño, which could expose outdoor workers to extreme heat and drought.

Complaints received through the hotline will be forwarded to the agency’s regional and field offices for appropriate action.

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READ: DOLE to issue labor advisories on workplace safety as El Niño looms

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However, Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino said the department was still working on setting a timeframe for resolving complaints, describing the process as “a work in progress.”

The hotline is staffed around the clock by Dole personnel, including those assigned to the graveyard shift. Twenty agents were initially deployed.

Tolentino urged the public to refrain from making prank calls, warning that these could disrupt the line and prevent workers with legitimate concerns from getting assistance.

He encouraged workers to report workplace concerns such as inadequate ventilation, lack of drinking water, failure to comply with El Niño-related labor advisories and other employer violations.

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READ: DOLE moves to shield delivery riders from heat-related penalties, perils

The public may reach the hotline by dialing 1-5-3-0 at any time.

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The hotline’s name is derived from the country’s traditional payday schedule, when workers typically receive their salaries on the 15th and 30th of each month.

Earlier, Dole issued guidelines requiring delivery platforms to implement safety measures as heat levels rise, including limiting or suspending deliveries under dangerous conditions. The guidelines outline precautionary measures for four heat-index levels.

The Employees’ Compensation Commission also added five heat-related conditions that may qualify workers for benefits under the Employees’ Compensation Program, including fainting, heat rash and kidney injury.