National legislations and local ordinances imposing non-disruptive behavior in public places, especially in school zones, churches, and residential neighborhoods are too numerous. Most of these “silence” regulations are usually implemented at night in due respect for people who sleep at night and work during the day. The fact that most people are usually asleep and quiet at evening time promotes tranquility for their fellow nighttime sleepers.
On the other hand, thousands of daytime sleepers, such as call center agents who, in their own humble way, contribute significantly to the economy of the country, are still not protected by any such legislation. These agents who have to work at night and sleep during the day cannot enjoy the same peace and quiet in the neighborhood because it is during the day that most people engage in the hard, sometimes loud, pursuit of personal interests and goals. People are preoccupied with their trade and transactions, actively participating in community social affairs and door-to-door dealings. They boast of their singing voices and ear-popping music, especially during festive merrymaking. It is during the day that phones are ringing, TV sets are blaring, road workers are drilling, cars are honking, dogs are barking, and little kids are screaming.
A law protecting the right of night workers to a restful slumber during the daytime in a peaceful environment that observes the same placid privilege of nighttime sleepers, is becoming necessary. After all, not every call center agent enjoys the comfort of sound-proofed bedroom walls in spacious homes. -Copyright 2009, Maria Francia Bengco
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