New law requires resolution of cases before employees retire

MANILA, Philippines—A new law signed by President Benigno Aquino III mandates state agencies to resolve a government employee’s case three months before retirement or else his or her benefits would have to be released although without prejudice to the ultimate resolution of the case.

In a statement on Republic Act 10154, Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa said failure to resolve a retiring employee’s case within the prescribed period without justifiable reason would cause a delay in the release of the person’s retirement benefits.

The main thrust of RA 10154 is to ensure the release of a retiring state worker’s retirement benefits within 30 days of his or her actual date of retirement.

To ensure compliance, the law also orders government employees to submit their documentary requirements at least 90 days before their retirement date.