By Azer Parrocha/Philippine News Agency
MANILA — The signing of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for the Expanded Maternity Leave Law (RA 11210) will benefit Filipino families, Malacañang said on Thursday.
“Makakabuti sa pamilya ‘yun (It’s good for the family),” Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said in a Palace briefing.
The Department of Labor and Employment and other stakeholders signed the IRR of the new law during Wednesday’s Labor Day celebration.
Under the IRR, working mothers are given 105 days paid maternity leave, instead of the previous 60. They will have the option to file for an additional 15 days of unpaid leave.
“It will add more benefits to your (mothers’) present benefits. Imagine 105 days, that means you will have more quality time with your family,” Panelo said.
“That means also your health will be protected because you will not be forced to work immediately after giving birth,” he added.
Panelo also pointed out that the law also raises the paternity leave from seven to 15 days.
“Also the husbands, meron pa silang extended (they also have an extended leave),” Panelo said.
President Rodrigo Duterte signed the Expanded Maternity Leave Law on Feb. 20 this year to ensure the best possible conditions for expectant working mothers.
Panelo earlier assured that the new law will not hurt the employability of women and warned employers who would not hire women will be held accountable.
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