A bill seeking to grant the rights and benefits of household workers in the Philippines, the Kasambahay Bill, has now been approved by the Lower House (House of Representatives).
Approved on third reading, House Bill 6144 gives minimum labor standards, including minimum wage setting (which will increase by another 10 Php COLA in November 2012), working hours regulation, and provision of insurance and leave benefits for househelp.
Through this Bill, domestic helpers will receive a minimum monthly salary of 3000 Php in Metro Manila, 2000 Php in chartered cities and first class municipalities, and 1000 Php in other municipalities.
Authored by Pampanga Rep. Arroyo and his son Representative Diosdado Macapagal Arroyo of Camarines Sur’s First District, the Bill also entitles them to a 13th month pay, Social Security System (SSS) coverage, and all the benefits provided under Republic Act No. 8282, as amended.
