Bongbong Marcos signs Caregiver Welfare Act

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed the Caregiver Welfare Act, establishing policies to protect domestic helpers from abuse.

A Palace statement on Friday revealed Marcos signed Republic Act No. 11965, “An Act Institutionalizing Policies for the Protection and Welfare of Caregivers in the Practice of their Occupation,” on November 23, 2023.

The law’s signing, however, was not publicized until Friday.

“It is hereby declared the policy of the State to recognize the role of caregivers in national development and to institute policies in the practice of the occupation with the end in view of developing competent caregivers whose standard of professional service shall be excellent and globally competitive,” the law reads.

The law applies to caregivers employed within the country by private employers, nursing or care facilities, and other residential settings, including those directly hired by employers.

Caregivers’ working hours will follow their employment contract, entitling them to overtime pay. Caregivers with more than one month of service are also eligible for 13th-month pay.

Under the law, caregivers will receive benefits such as SSS contributions, PhilHealth, and Pag-Ibig.