With a number of laws, the Philippines is leading the way in advocating for the welfare of many Filipinos. Not only do these laws recognize the various responsibilities that women play in society, but they also emphasize how important it is to give them the assistance they need at significant life events.
As we celebrate Women’s Month, let us educate ourselves about some of the basic laws benefiting women.
1. 105-Day Expanded Maternity Leave Law
The 105-Day Expanded Maternity Leave Law, also known as RA 11210, is a significant step towards acknowledging the needs of mothers. According to this law, a female employee is guaranteed 105 days of paid maternity leave in the event of a live birth, plus an extra 30 days of unpaid leave. Under RA 8972, a qualified single parent is also entitled to an additional 15 days of paid maternity leave.
The law also protects the rights of female employees in miscarriages and emergency pregnancy terminations, including stillbirths, by providing a 60-day paid maternity leave. The provision stresses the importance of giving women enough time to recover from such experiences while also acknowledging the psychological and physical effects that they can have on them.
2. Expanded Solo Parent Act
The Expanded Solo Parent Act, or RA 11861, recognizes the unique challenges experienced by single parents, the majority of whom are women. A female employee who is the only parent has the legal right to a seven-day compensated leave of absence. By enabling the woman to fulfill her parenting obligations, this provision guarantees that she will be there to support her child when they most need her. This is to acknowledge the challenge of balancing the responsibilities that single parents often carry out, especially women.
3. Magna Carta of Women
RA 9710, which is an embodiment of the Magna Carta of Women, provides protection for women who are dealing with gynecological issues. This law enables a female employee to take up to two months of paid leave after surgery for a gynecological problem in order to recover. In doing so, it acknowledges that women must place a high priority on their health and well-being, especially while dealing with health-related problems.
4. Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children
The Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004, also known as RA 9262, supports female employees who become victims of violence. This law guarantees a woman employee who encounters such situations the right to a 10-day paid leave. This period is crucial for the victim to attend to medical and legal concerns during the application of a protection order, investigation, prosecution, and/or trial of a criminal case. It highlights how crucial it is to provide assistance and protection to women who are in need.
5. Rape Victim Assistance and Protection Act of 1998
The government’s commitment to providing rape victims with the support and protection they need is stated in RA 8505, also known as Rape Victim Assistance and Protection Act of 1998. The government intends to coordinate with non-governmental groups and its agencies to create and manage rape crisis centers in every province and city. These facilities will provide assistance to victims of sexual assault during the course of their legal proceedings and recovery.
6. Assistance for Small-Scale Women Entrepreneurs
In February 1995, RA 7882 was also recognized as the “Provision of Assistance to Women Engaging in Micro and Cottage Business Enterprises Act,” along with other purposes. The act intends to support Filipino women in their efforts to own, run, and oversee small businesses to the greatest extent possible.
7. Prohibition on Discrimination Against Women
The Prohibition on Discrimination Against Women or RA 6725, calls for equal treatment in terms of employment based only on a person’s gender. This law characterizes discrimination as when an employer gives a male employee preference over a female employee for a promotion, training, or other advantages just because of the employee’s gender.
8. The Anti-Rape Law
While the act of rape can happen to all genders, this act of legislation serves as a reminder that anyone who obtains carnal knowledge of a woman by threats, coercion, or intimidation, or through fraudulent deception or serious abuse of power, is subjected to punishment, which might be life in jail or reclusion perpetua, depending on the seriousness of the case.
9. National Women’s Day
The eighth day of March has been declared a special working holiday under RA 6949, which guarantees a meaningful celebration of the holiday, allowing and requiring employers in the private sector, along with members of government agencies and organizations, including corporations that are owned and managed by the government and local government units, to provide enough time and opportunity for their staff to engage in any activities held on the premises of their respective offices or establishments in celebration of National Women’s Day.
As we celebrate Women’s Month, it makes sense to recognize the significant developments in women’s rights and get to know the particular legislative measures that protect their welfare. These demonstrate a dedication to acknowledging and resolving the particular difficulties that women encounter at various stages of their lives.
Let us all be reminded to create an environment that genuinely empowers and supports every Filipina’s journey by making ourselves aware of these regulations.
