Forced to sing or dance at the office Christmas party? DOLE calls it bullying

Just because you're on the team (even as a newbie!), you don't have to sing, dance, or be part of a skit at the office Christmas party. The Department of Labor and Employment said employees cannot be forced to perform at these gatherings as it can be considered bullying.

In a news forum, DOLE-Central Visayas (Region 7) information officer Roberto Cabardo reminded employers not to force their employees to dance.do things they don't want to during Christmas parties.

"Please avoid that, because it can be considered a form of bullying to our employees," his said in Cebuano.

"But if the employees themselves want to dance and enjoy, then that’s fine. Just don’t force them. As long as there’s consent. Just don’t force it," he added.

According to Atty. "Maimai" Myra Caroy, attending a party or participating in one should be voluntary. She advises employees to file a complaint with the company's grievance machinery first, if any, before reaching out to DOLE for discriminatory practices.

DOLE previously said employees who face threats of disciplinary action for refusing to participate may file a complaint before the National Labor Relations Commission and seek damages.

The agency also noted that coercion or harassment may also fall under the Safe Spaces Act.