Binay backs House measure granting househelp benefits

Stressing that “domestic helpers also deserve access to decent and humane work like professionals,” Vice President Jejomar Binay on Monday expressed support for the speedy approval of House Bill No. 553, the Magna Carta for Household Helpers.

Binay said he would ask President Aquino to certify the bill as urgent.

“The immediate passage of this bill will greatly reduce the incidence of labor-related trafficking and will show the Philippine government’s determination to protect the rights of domestic workers, whether at home or abroad,” he said.

The “kasambahay bill” would entitle househelp to 13th month pay, 14-day paid vacation, maternity or paternity leave, among other benefits.

Earlier in a letter to Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Binay said HB 553 would “ensure the freedom, equity and security of domestic helpers.”

He said the measure would also “pave the way for the realization of the dream of affording our kababayan the protection of their rights as citizens of our republic.”

“House Bill 553 sets minimum standards for the employment of domestic helpers following the International Labor Organization’s (ILO) adoption of new rules for the protection of household helpers,” he noted.

The measure also “allows domestic helpers to pursue their education with no impact on their compensation.”

According to the ILO, household workers should be given “reasonable working hours, weekly rest of at least 24 consecutive hours, clear information on terms and conditions of employment, as well as respect for fundamental principles, including freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining.”