Gatchalian says expanded maternity leave won’t discriminate women

Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian. (File photo by GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE / Philippine Daily Inquirer)

MANILA, Philippines—Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Saturday said the new law expanding maternity leave for working mothers will not discriminate women employees.

“Hindi ako naniniwala na magiging sanhi yan ng discrimination. May mga bagay talagang masasabi nating magaling ang babae sa ibang trabaho,” Gatchalian told local radio station DWIZ.

On Wednesday, President Rodrigo Duterte signed the law that grants 105 days of paid maternity leave with option to extend for 30 days without pay.

Single mothers will also get additional 15 days of leave.

The maternity law will give female workers in the government and private sectors 105 days of paid maternity leave regardless of the type of childbirth.

READ: Duterte signs into law longer maternity leave benefits

Gatchalian then highlighted that there are more women than men in the Senate, saying female senators are better in analyzing and creating proposed laws.

“Sa senado mas maraming babae kasya sa lalaki,” he said. “Sa paggawa ng batas at analysis mas magaling ang babae dun.”

The senator also expressed his support on the measure saying it will give mothers more time to take care of their children.

“Ako suportado ako diyan dahil nakikita ko na it makes the family stronger in that period na may bagong sanggol na dapat alagaan. Bigyan natin sila ng panahon, ng oras,” Gatchalian said. /jpv