DOLE includes online inputs in IRR of Batas Kasambahay

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is taking the idea of public consultations a bit further by including online inputs in preparing the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) for Republic Act 10361 or the Batas Kasambahay.

Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz said the scheme is intended to raise awareness on the provisions of the law designed to protect the welfare and safety of household helpers in the country.

“The online posting of the IRR on the Batas Kasambahay will provide the general public a venue to study the IRR and make comment/s or suggestion/s on its final version. It will give Filipino netizens a channel to express their views on the landmark document after years of legislative struggle,” Baldoz said.

As part of the program, Baldoz has directed the Labor Communication Office to coordinate with the Bureau of Working Conditions and Planning Service to post on DOLE’s official website - www.dole.gov.ph - the draft of the IRR.

“This is part of our strategy to raise the level of public knowledge on the salient provisions of the law which aims to provide adequate welfare and social protection to our Filipino household service workers,” she said.

Baldoz clarified that the online solicitation of comments is only part of nationwide consultations set next month with relevant stakeholders.

“We have decided to upload the draft IRR in the Internet to get as many comments as possible, because even some DOLE officials and employees and members of the media have raised questions on the Batas Kasambahay which need to be addressed and clarified,” she said.

The Batas Kasambahay section on DOLE’s website will feature a simplified question and answer portion, both in English and Tagalog, to ensure better appreciation by a wider audience.

The site will also provide a “freedom wall” where the public can leave their queries, comments, or suggestions.

“We want the public and our partners to get involved in shaping the implementing rules of this social legislation. By doing so, we hope to solicit not only valuable inputs, but also support, which will make the law’s implementation effective and smooth,” Baldoz added.

The law, enacted last January, is expected to benefit more than 2.9 million Filipinos working as household helpers.

The law institutionalizes the provision of a comprehensive package of benefits to Filipino household service workers, including entitling them to 13th month pay, service incentive leaves, and other social welfare benefits such as Social Security System, Pag-IBIG, and Philippine Health Insurance Corp.

“Be updated and know the latest on the Batas Kasambahay. Visit the DOLE’s website and check out our Batas Kasambahay section,” she said.