THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Central Luzon and its provincial office in Pampanga have issued support on the recommended early release of the 13th month pay of private sector workers.

This was in response to the statement issued by Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. President Rene Romero, who urged the members of the organization to give their workers a pro-rated amount of their 13th month pay.

DTI echoed Romero’s statement that the early release of 13th month pay will help employees sustain their families’ need while there is suspension of work due to implementation of enhanced community quarantine is in place.

DTI-Central Luzon director Judith Angeles noted that this call was also given by DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez to the leaders of the largest companies in the country.

She said several large companies have responded to the call of the agency and are releasing 13th month pay, as well as the continued salary of their employees despite suspension of work.

Angeles called on the business owners and management in the province to emulate such an action, while also in consideration to the state of their businesses.

“We understand the effect of enhanced community quarantine in your businesses, but let us also take into consideration your employees and their families who might be helpless amid the situation,” she said.