The Philippine Senate is pushing a bill that would require private sector employers to grant a 30% increase in daily minimum wage to employees required to report to work during strong typhoons and other calamities. Senator Loren Legarda, who filed the bill, emphasized that the rate aligns with existing labor standards and serves as reimbursement for additional expenses and hardships. The Philippines, located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, is highly vulnerable to natural disasters, topping the World Risk Index for the third consecutive year in 2024. The proposed law aims to provide fair compensation for employees sustaining essential services like transportation, healthcare, and utilities during emergencies. The additional pay covers extra costs for transportation, food, safety risks, and inflation. The Department of Labor and Employment will issue guidelines on calculation, and non-compliance may result in fines.
