A bill that will grant additional leave benefits for working mothers has been signed into law by President Rodrigo Duterte.
Duterte signed Republic Act 11210 beating the 30-day deadline for the proposed measure to lapse into law last Wednesday, Feb 20, 2019 according to Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea.
In the government and private sector, all working mothers are guaranteed with 105 days of paid maternity leave credits. 7 days transferable to fathers. There will be an additional paid leave of 15 days granted to single mothers.
Previously, a 60-day of paid leave are granted to mothers given they have normal delivery and 78 days for Cesarean delivery.
Provided the employer is given due notice in writing at least 45 days ahead before the end of the maternity leave, the law gives mothers the option to extend their leave for another 30 days without pay.
Regardless of civil status, to all female workers the law shall be applied. This removes the 4-pregnancy cap.
A 60-day paid maternity leave shall be granted to a female worker in case of miscarriage or emergency termination of pregnancy.
Provided that they have remitted to the Social Security System at least three monthly contributions in the 12-month period immediately preceding the semester of her childbirth; miscarriage; or emergency termination of pregnancy, maternity benefits shall also be given to female workers in the informal economy.
The law is a “massive victory for women and their families.
The law squarely addresses our lack of maternity leave days, and puts us at par with international standards. It also supports the best available evidence and practice which are consistent with improving maternity leave policy.
Now, mothers will have more time to rest from pregnancy. Children will be better fed. Fathers and caregivers can bond and create more lasting memories with their loved ones, as families everywhere receive the greatest gift of all time.
Sen. Risa Hontiveros, author of the bill
The government is confident the law’s passage will not result in discrimination against females in the hiring process. The law also prohibits discrimination against the employment of women in order to avoid granting the expanded maternity benefits said Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo.
He added, “Filipinos are family-oriented. These industrialist businessmen, they will understand.
Be the first to comment