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By Faith V. Piamonte
BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 26 (PIA) - The National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB) Regional Branch XIII officer-in-charge regional director Ligaya R. Lumbay, discussed Republic Act No. 10361, otherwise known as the “Domestic Workers Act or Batas Kasambahay” to the 86 Barangay Captains of the city.
Atty. Lumbay explained that the Batas Kasambahay was created in order to strengthen the respect and protection of the rights and welfare of our 'kasambahay''against abuse, harassment, violence, economic exploitation and performance of work that is hazardous to their physical and mental health.
The Batas Kasambahay covers household workers such as general househelp, nursemaid or yaya, cook, gardener, laundry person, or any person who regularly performs domestic work in a household on occupational basis whether or not on a live – in or live – out arrangement.
The law also provides a minimum wage of P2,500 for those employed in the National Capital Region; P2,000 for those employed in cities and first class municipalities; and P1,500 for those employed in other municipalities.
The 'kasambahay' is also entitled to the following rights and privileges: daily and weekly rest periods, Service Incentive Leave, 13th month pay, coverage under SSS, PhilHealth and Pag-ibig laws, board, lodging and medical assistance, privacy, access to outside communication, access to education and training, employment contract, freedom from employers’ interference in the disposal of wages, join, form or assist labor organization, and exercise their religious beliefs and cultural practices.
Atty. Lumbay also emphasized that Barangay Captains should maintain a Registry of Domestic Workers and a Registration/Kasambahay Desk in the Barangay Hall to accommodate registration by an employer of his/her 'kasambahay.'
The discussion was held during the 33rd Liga ng mga Barangay Meeting on September 18 at Colegio de Liga ng mga Barangay Conference Room, here. (NCLM/NCMB/PIA-Caraga)
