A bill was introduced in the Philippine Senate to strengthen the rights and welfare of media and entertainment workers through mandatory employee benefits, increased pay, and workplace safety provisions.
The Media and Entertainment Workers' Welfare Bill, filed by Senator Bong Go ahead of the 20th Philippine Congress, also recognized "the vital role of these workers and addresses the risks and vulnerabilities they face in their profession."
Central to the bill is a requirement for a written contract detailing the scope of work, compensation terms, and other conditions between a worker and a media or entertainment entity. It also entitles workers to overtime pay, night shift differentials, and hazard pay of at least 25% of the basic daily wage when working in high-risk locations such as conflict zones, disaster sites, and disease-affected areas.
If passed, the bill will also mandate the Department of Labour and Employment (DOLE) and other relevant government agencies to study and submit a plan for additional insurance benefits for media and entertainment workers within two years of its effectiveness.
Citing Section 18, Article II of the Philippine Constitution, Go cited the government's role in protecting workers' rights and welfare. "Media and entertainment workers play an important role in informing, educating, and shaping public opinion. They are essential to a well-functioning democracy, as they serve as the bridge between the public and the truth," he said in a statement.
Go also highlighted workers' difficult working conditions, citing the lack of adequate protection, benefits, and tenure security. "They are on the frontlines, braving physical dangers, mental stress, and long hours—often with little to no additional compensation or protection."
According to the Centre for Trade Union and Human Rights, Philippine labour rights still face problems from a lack of implementation and government inaction despite robust labour policies and legal frameworks. In 2024, the country dropped 2.5 points from 70.5 to 68 in the Labour Rights Index, which is below the global average of 74.
The proposed bill is one of several recent legislative and civic attempts to improve worker compensation across the country. During the 19th Congress, which ended in June this year, the Philippine Senate and House of Representatives passed separate versions of a wage hike bill but failed to agree on the amount. In July, a group of manpower agencies petitioned the government for a $100 monthly salary increase for overseas Filipino domestic workers.