Government issues rules on holiday pay

MANILA, Philippines - Workers will enjoy hefty holiday pay if they choose to report for work during the Christmas break.

Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz said the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has issued holiday pay rules to guide employers nationwide.

Dec. 25 and 30 as well Jan. 1 are regular holidays, while Dec. 24 and Dec. 31 are non-working holidays.  

Under the rules, workers reporting on the three regular holidays shall receive double their daily pay, Baldoz said.

Those working for more than eight hours shall get additional 30 percent of the hourly rate, while those made to work on their scheduled day off shall receive 260 percent pay.

If the employee worked in excess of eight hours during a regular holiday that also falls on his or her rest day, he or she shall be paid an additional 30 percent of his or her hourly rate on that day in addition to 260 percent.

Baldoz said workers choosing not report to work will also be paid their regular daily pay during regular holidays.

Workers opting to work today and Dec. 31 shall get an additional 30 percent of their regular pay.

An employee rendering service in excess of eight hours that also falls on his or her rest day shall be paid another 30 percent of the hourly rate.

However, Baldoz said the “no-work, no-pay” principle applies unless there is a favorable company policy, practice or collective bargaining agreement granting payment on these special days.

Employers must observe proper pay rules, as well as occupational safety standards, during the coming holidays, Baldoz said.

“Share your blessings and joy of the season and, in the interest of our workers’ welfare and protection, pay them correctly during the holidays,” she said.

“Voluntary compliance with labor laws by observing the pay rules and other core labor and occupational safety and health standards during the holidays is good for business.”