Are Forced Resignations Allowed in the Philippines?

Forced resignation is a common concern among employees in the Philippines, especially when workplace relationships sour or when employers attempt to avoid the formal process of termination. Many employees ask: Can an employer legally force an employee to resign?

The short answer is no. Under Philippine labor law, a forced or coerced resignation is not allowed and is treated as constructive dismissal, which is a form of illegal dismissal .

This article explains what forced resignation is, why it is illegal, how Philippine courts assess it, and what remedies are available to affected employees.