kontraktado

Kontraktado is a term used to describe employment contracted on a fixed-term or project basis rather than as a regular, permanent employee. The word derives from the Spanish contratado, adapted into Filipino as kontraktado. In many contexts, kontraktado workers are hired for a defined period or for the duration of a specific project, with duties and terms outlined in a written contract.

Scope and practice often include temporary staffing for seasonal work, periods of high demand, or specialized projects. Kontraktado arrangements appear across various sectors, such as construction, manufacturing, hospitality, information technology, and agriculture. The arrangement can involve full-time or part-time work, depending on the contract and local labor laws.

Legal status and rights vary by country and contract. In some jurisdictions, fixed-term workers are entitled to the same minimum wage and safety protections as regular employees, while in others they receive fewer benefits or protections. Contract termination typically occurs at the end of the term or project; renewal or extension may occur, and continued employment beyond the initial term can trigger conversion to permanent status or require justification to avoid abuse. Employers are generally expected to provide proper documentation to prevent misclassification and to comply with labor standards.

Criticism and debate surround kontraktado practices. Critics argue that fixed-term contracts can undermine job security, benefits, and career progression, while supporters emphasize workforce flexibility for employers and opportunities for workers who prefer short-term or project-based roles. Some jurisdictions regulate successive fixed-term contracts or require conversion to permanent status after certain conditions are met.