DOLE to employers: Provide more paid leaves

MANILA, Philippines — To ensure the mental wellbeing of workers, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is urging employers to provide additional paid leaves and flexible work arrangement options to their employees.

In an advisory, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said additional paid leave benefits may be provided to employees needing further medical attention on top of the existing leave benefits under company policy, collective bargaining agreement and the Labor Code.

“Employers and their employees shall have shared responsibility to ensure the effective implementation of mental health policy and program,” Laguesma said.

Employers must ensure that their workers are provided with effective mental and self-care services, he added.

Laguesma encouraged employers to consider flexible work arrangements and rescheduling of work hours as well as telecommuting and other benefits.

Employers are required to submit to the DOLE regional office an annual medical report indicating the number of cases handled or referred to providers if any, according to Laguesma.

There must also be activities and programs promoting mental health in the workplace, he added.

Workers, on the other hand, are advised to avail themselves of healthcare services and facilities accredited by the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. if they need further examination of their mental health.

DOLE said employees requiring immediate mental health services may also access the National Mental Health Crisis’ Luzon-wide toll-free landline 1553.

Globe or TM subscribers may call 09663514518, 09178998727, and 0917899USAP while Smart, Sun and TNT subscribers may contact 09086392672.