North Cotabato Rep. Ma. Alana Samantha Taliño-Santos has filed House Bill 8471 to allow pregnant women and those who have just given birth to have flexible work arrangements, to work from home, or be allowed to adjust their time-in and time-out schedules.
“Studies have shown that accommodations for pregnant employees also have positive impacts to overall work productivity, reduce absenteeism and improve employee satisfaction and retention,” she said.
The proposed flexible work arrangements shall extend for at least one year from the date of childbirth.
She, however, clarified the flexible work arrangements shall be agreed upon by the employer and the pregnant employee and post-natal mother, and shall adhere to labor standards.
A violator will be fined P20,000 to P200,000 or imprisoned for 30 days to six months.
Employers may seek an exemption from the Department of Labor and Employment.
The proposed measure provides that mothers who avail of the flexible work arrangement shall be assured security of tenure, and “exercise of this option by them shall not be used as a basis for demotion in employment or termination.”
“By enacting this legislation, we empower pregnant women and post-natal mothers to effectively balance the responsibilities of their professional commitments with the demands of their family life, particularly during this crucial phasef of motherhood,” the lawmaker cited.
