Effect of alternative work arrangements to employees

Princess Jeremy S. Bondoc

WHEN COVID struck, we were all presented with alternative forms of work – specifically the work from home arrangement.

This kind of work arrangement, which moved away from the more traditional employment, was implemented by companies all over the country as one of the health protocols to prevent the spread of the virus.

We really did not have much of a choice. It was either we work at home where we do not normally bring our work – or not earn anything at all.

There was growing concern when this was first taken into consideration, citing several factors that would not make it work: playing kids in the background, pets, and ambient noise, among others.

We were so used to being so devoted to our work that when we were dealt with a health crisis, we did not know what to do with all our spare time. All we knew was that we wanted to work – we just needed to work and do something.

We had to make do with what we were given, and somehow, it worked for us. With the alternative work arrangement, we were still fully committed, and willing to give extra effort to get the job done. We had to embrace and face the changes, because this is now the new normal. As long as the virus is within our midst, we have to make do with our present situation.

Besides, with what is happening in the country, it’s harder to have traditional work structures. We need flexible hours for more productivity – and create a win-win solution for employers, employees, and families.

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The author is Administrative Assistant III at Sto. Rosario Elementary School,

Miranda St., Brgy. Sto. Rosario, Angeles City, Pampanga