Senator Raffy Tulfo has blasted the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) for allegedly allowing illegal employment practices such as the “5-5-5” scheme to persist, accusing inspectors of turning a blind eye and even insinuating corruption during Senate hearings. He demanded stronger enforcement and sanctions against erring inspectors.

During the Senate Committee on Labor, Employment and Human Resources Development hearing on April 22, 2026, Tulfo raised alarm over the continued prevalence of the “5-5-5” scheme, where companies hire workers for five months, terminate them before they reach regularization at six months, and then rehire them to avoid granting benefits and job security. “Talamak pa rin ang 5-5-5 scheme sa mga kumpanya, lalo na sa fast food at manufacturing industries,” Tulfo said, describing the practice as exploitative and illegal.

He pressed DOLE officials on why such schemes remain widespread despite existing rules prohibiting them. “Ang siste, magha-hire sila ng empleyado at pagdating ng ika-limang buwan ay sisibakin ang mga ito at muling ire-rehire para hindi ma-regularize at magkaroon ng benepisyo,” Tulfo added, stressing that enforcement on the ground is weak.

Tulfo accused DOLE inspectors of failing to properly investigate violations, saying they often limit their engagement to company management and human resources personnel. “Ang problema sa inyong mga taga-DOLE, kung mag-inspect man kayo, nakatakip ang mga mata ninyo at paglabas ng compound may bitbit na kayong envelope,” he insinuated, suggesting inspectors may be compromised.

He urged DOLE to impose sanctions on inspectors who neglect their duties or conspire to conceal illegal activities. “Gusto ko na may ma-sampolan—either sibak o kasuhan. Only then saka titino ang ilang inspectors,” Tulfo declared, calling for accountability within the agency.

DOLE Undersecretary Benedicto Ernesto Bitonio Jr. responded that the “5-5-5” scheme is already prohibited and inspections are conducted to prevent such practices. However, he admitted that enforcement must be strengthened and asked workers to cooperate by reporting violations. Tulfo countered that workers risk losing their jobs if they complain, insisting that DOLE must take responsibility for ensuring compliance.

The senator also shared that he personally visited a company that had passed a DOLE inspection but still observed improper working conditions, including poor ventilation and lack of protective gear. He argued that this proves inspections are ineffective and called for follow-up checks and investigations into inspectors themselves.

Tulfo’s remarks highlight ongoing frustrations over labor contractualization and weak enforcement of labor laws, issues that continue to affect thousands of Filipino workers across industries. The Senate Labor Committee is expected to pursue further hearings to address these concerns.