BAGUIO CITY – The Department of Labor and Employment-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOLE-CAR) celebrated the Araw ng Kasambahay by highlighting the importance of empowered domestic workers and strengthening the roles of local government units (LGUs), public employment service offices (PESOs), and Kasambahay Organizations in safeguarding their rights.
Significance of the Batas Kasambahay
The Batas Kasambahay (Republic Act No. 10361) was signed into law on January 18, 2013, serves a landmark legislation aimed at protecting the rights and welfare of domestic workers, commonly referred to as “kasambahay.” It sets forth comprehensive guidelines to ensure fair treatment, decent working conditions, and social security for workers, including house helpers, nannies, cooks, gardeners, and similar roles.
This law includes provisions on minimum wage, working hours, overtime pay, living conditions, paid leaves, mandatory employment contracts, and safeguards against abuse. It also outlines the responsibilities of employers and strengthens the mechanisms for rescue and rehabilitation in cases of kasambahay abuse.
Orientation and Capacity Building
On January 27, 2025, DOLE-CAR conducted an orientation program at its regional office in Cabinet Hill, Baguio City. The event was attended by 45 barangay captains, reflecting the critical role of barangays in monitoring and protecting kasambahay workers.
Technical Support Services Division Chief Emerito A. Narag, PhD, opened the session by emphasizing the importance of ensuring equal treatment for kasambahay, advocating for fair wages and sufficient rest periods.
Joyette C. Alonzo, Batas Kasambahay Regional Focal Person, provided an in-depth orientation on the key provisions of Republic Act No. 10361 and the Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2015-002, which specifies protocols for the rescue and rehabilitation in case of their abuse.
Wendy M. Salada, Senior Labor and Employment Officer (LEO), engaged participants in discussions on care work, women’s employability, and the International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention No. 190, which addresses violence and harassment in the workplace.
Also, Leonardo Doguil, Senior LEO, led a session on the Child Labor Program, distinguishing child work from child labor. He highlighted that children aged 15 to 17 may legally engage in age-appropriate work, provided it does not interfere with their physical, mental, or emotional development.
Inspirational Leadership
In her message, OIC-Regional Director Imelda E. Romanillos, underscored the importance of collaboration among LGUs, DOLE, and partner agencies to safeguard the rights of kasambahay. She emphasized the need for barangays to submit regular reports on kasambahay workers to ensure proper monitoring and protection.
Romanillos also reminded participants that former kasambahay who are no longer employed can access government programs such as the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program, which offers support to help them transition to sustainable livelihoods.
As the newly appointed Regional Director for DOLE-CAR, Romanillos expressed her gratitude to the participants for their active involvement and commitment to the welfare of kasambahay workers.
Looking Ahead
The celebration of Araw ng Kasambahay reinforces the government’s dedication to uplifting the lives of domestic workers and fostering a culture of respect and fairness in the household labor sector. Through initiatives like this, DOLE-CAR continues to champion the rights of kasambahay and strengthen partnerships that ensure their well-being and empowerment. By Daryll B. Ponard
