Employers warned vs violating Expanded Maternity Leave law

MANILA, Philippines — Labor groups yesterday warned employers against violating the newly signed Expanded Maternity Leave (EML) Law.

Labor coalition Nagkaisa and the militant Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) said there are employers who have declared their intent not to hire women workers.

“They are acting like bullies. We are warning them. We won’t let unscrupulous employers use a pro-woman and pro-development law like the EML Law against the very women who should benefit and receive protection from it,” Nagkaisa and KMU said in a joint statement.

The labor groups said violating the law carries a penalty of P20,000 to P200,000, a prison term of six years to 12 years or both. Employers also face non-renewal of their business permits.

Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said they are rushing to draw up the law’s implementing rules and regulations.