SOME 2.5 million domestic workers or “kasambahay” are set to benefit from the Kasambahay Bill that was signed by President Benigno Aquino III recently.
The bill, also called the Republic Act 10361 or “An Act Instituting Policies for the Protection and Welfare of Domestic Workers," was signed into law on January 18, said Deputy Malacañang spokesperson Abigail Valte.
The statute defines labor rights of domestic household workers, increases their minimum wage, and provides regular employment benefits for them.
According to the law, the minimum wage for domestic workers is set at P2,500 a month in the National Capital Region; P2,000 a month in chartered cities and first class municipalities; and P1,500 a month for those employed in other municipalities.
A year after the law takes effect, the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards are mandated to review and adjust the wages for domestic workers as needed.
Aside from standardized pay, domestic workers will be entitled to other social government-mandated benefits like enrollment to the Social Security System, PhilHealth, and Pag-Ibig Fund, with premium payments shouldered by employers if the helpers receive a monthly salary below P5,000. (Sunnex with wire reports)
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