Outrage reverberates across online communities as netizens voice concerns over the operational practices of Chowking’s SM Ecoland branch, with accusations of compelling service crew members to roam subdivisions in a bid to boost sales.
Service crew members, in statements, reveal the challenges they face, lacking a transportation budget that forces them to dip into their own pockets for public transport, particularly when dealing with considerable distances.
One employee, despite objections, describes the additional task as a collaborative effort to ramp up sales for their relatively smaller branch.
Adding to the controversy, crew members disclose being handed sales quotas, a move criticized by online pundits who argue that such demands exceed the customary responsibilities of service staff.
As tensions escalate, social media users are calling on the Senate and the Department of Labor and Employment to initiate investigations into these employment practices.
Controversy Involving TikToker and Chowking’s Response
The controversy doesn’t solely revolve around the fast-food chain; it extends to the TikToker who uploaded the video, accused of irresponsible vlogging. Some netizens label the TikToker a clout-chaser, criticizing her for not blurring the face of the crew and potentially jeopardizing her job.
In a TikTok video by user @cabralmaria__, a Chowking server identified as Shella reveals being required to leave the restaurant to take orders and meet their branch’s quota.
“As a service crew, we need to find a way to grow our sales because it is also our job,” Shella explains, noting that she uses her personal money to commute from the store to customers’ homes and back.
Chowking responds, stating it asked the store to “put the activity on hold while the guidelines to ensure compliance with our standards are undergoing review.” The statement underscores the commitment to upholding ethical standards and prioritizing the safety and well-being of team members.
However, netizens persist in their critique, asserting that such tasks should not have been allowed, as they fall outside the workers’ job description.
Concerns Over Unfair Practices and Worker Safety
Netizens emphasize the unfairness of the situation, highlighting the overworked and underpaid conditions of the staff. @andersonjhaden comments, “All these efforts for a meager salary, overworked and underpaid.”
Others stress the importance of prioritizing staff safety. @jaymazingwalk notes, “For me, if there’s such a strategy, the staff’s safety should be safeguarded. Imagine walking with a cellphone and money; we can’t predict what might happen on the road.”
While the controversy centers around Chowking, some netizens point out that “outside-of-store” order-taking is not a new practice and is not exclusive to Chowking. The incident sparks a broader discussion on the treatment of service staff and the responsibility of businesses to ensure fair and ethical practices.
The Daily Netizen 