To the management of major grocery chains such as SM Supermalls, Robinsons Supermarket, Puregold Price Club, and all retail establishments across the country:

 

 

We, the undersigned, respectfully call for immediate action to improve the working conditions of grocery cashiers by providing stools or chairs at their stations.

 

WHY THIS MATTERS

Grocery cashiers work long hours often 8 to 10 hours a day standing continuously, sometimes even required to wear heels or uncomfortable footwear as part of their uniform. This is not just exhausting. It is harmful.

 

PHYSICAL HEALTH RISKS OF PROLONGED STANDING (ESPECIALLY IN HEELS):

 

1. Chronic back pain and spinal strain
   Development of varicose veins
   Foot injuries, swelling, and long-term joint damage
2. Increased risk of fatigue and burnout
   Poor blood circulation, which may lead to more serious health conditions over time
3. Standing all day is not a measure of productivity. It is a risk to workers’ well-being.

 

THE SIMPLE SOLUTION: PROVIDE CHAIRS OR STOOLS

Allowing cashiers to sit, even intermittently, offers clear benefits:

1. Reduces physical strain and risk of injury
2. Improves employee comfort and morale
3. Leads to better focus, efficiency, and customer service
4. Shows respect and dignity toward workers

Many grocery stores both locally and internationally already provide chairs for their cashiers. It is practical, humane, and achievable.

 

A MATTER OF DIGNITY, NOT LAZINESS

Filipino workers are known for their resilience and dedication. Yet, they are often underpaid and overworked. Providing a chair is not a luxury — it is a basic act of COMPASSION and RESPECT.

 

Let us be clear:

Sitting while working is NOT a sign of laziness.

It is a sign of a workplace that values its people.

 

OUR CALL TO ACTION

We are aiming to gather at least 100,000 signatures to urge all grocery chains and retail companies to:

✔ Provide stools or chairs for cashiers

✔ Allow seated work when possible

✔ Review uniform policies, especially footwear requirements

✔ Prioritize employee health and humane working conditions

 

SIGN AND SHARE

If you believe in fair treatment, dignity, and better working conditions for Filipino workers, we urge you to sign this petition and share it widely.

Change starts with awareness and grows with action.

Together, let’s stand up for those who stand all day for us.