Stronger Labor Protection for Caregivers Nationwide
Workers serving as caregivers in private homes and care institutions across the country now enjoy stronger labor protection and better access to social benefits. This follows the release of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) under the Caregivers’ Welfare Act. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) emphasized that these new rules reflect the Marcos administration’s dedication to safeguarding caregivers’ rights and welfare nationwide.
Signed on May 21 through Department Order No. 254, Series of 2025, the IRR outlines essential provisions of Republic Act No. 11965. It guarantees caregivers the right to fair compensation and a safe, healthy workplace. Furthermore, it ensures their inclusion in major social protection programs like the Social Security System (SSS), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG), and the Employees’ Compensation and State Insurance Fund (ECSIF).
Comprehensive Social Benefits and Skills Development
The new rules also require the establishment of a national caregiver registry, maintained via DOLE’s PhilJobNet platform. This registry aims to streamline caregiver records and services. Additionally, caregivers will benefit from ongoing skills upgrading and reskilling initiatives in collaboration with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
Coverage under the IRR applies to all caregivers, whether they live with their employers or work off-site. This includes those hired directly or through Public Employment Service Offices (PESOs) and licensed Private Employment Agencies (PEAs). Meanwhile, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) will issue separate guidelines to protect Filipino caregivers employed abroad, working closely with concerned agencies.
Collaborative Efforts for Implementation
DOLE developed the IRR in consultation with TESDA and key stakeholders from both public and private sectors. Local leaders noted that the rules will take effect 15 days after their publication in the Official Gazette or a widely circulated newspaper. This timeline ensures caregivers nationwide can soon benefit from enhanced protections and opportunities.
For more news and updates on caregivers’ welfare act, visit Filipinokami.com.