Senator Bong Go has filed Senate Bill No. 667 at the start of the 20th Congress, seeking to promote the protection and welfare of media and entertainment workers in the Philippines.
The proposed measure reflects Go’s recognition of the vital role of these workers and addresses the risks and vulnerabilities they face in their profession.
In the explanatory note accompanying his proposed legislation, the veteran legislator emphasized the constitutional mandate to protect workers, declaring: “Section 18, Article II of the 1987 Constitution provides that ‘the State affirms labor as a primary social economic force. It shall protect the rights of workers and promote their welfare.’”
“Despite their critical contributions, media workers face difficult working conditions, often without adequate protection, benefits, or security of tenure.”
“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. Yet, despite their critical contributions, media workers face difficult working conditions, often without adequate protection, benefits, or security of tenure,” the seasoned lawmaker said.
The senator underscored the dangers inherent in media work, noting: “These professionals risk their lives to provide timely and relevant information to the public, especially during crises, natural disasters, armed conflicts, and public health emergencies. They are on the frontlines, braving physical dangers, mental stress, and long hours—often with little to no additional compensation or protection.”
To address these issues, SBN 667, or the “Media and Entertainment Workers’ Welfare Bill,” aims to establish more safeguards and labor standards tailored for workers in this sector. Central to the bill is the requirement that a written contract be executed before any work commences between a worker and a media or entertainment entity.
The bill, if enacted, wishes to ensure that a contract must detail the scope of work, compensation terms, party information, and all conditions governing the engagement.
The bill explicitly states that “the rate and method of compensation, the date on which salaries and/or wages shall be paid” must be clearly stipulated, ensuring workers are properly compensated and protected from unjust arrangements.
To further protect workers’ welfare, the absence of such a contract subjects employers to fines and still entitles workers to claim compensation for services rendered. The bill also proposes clear limitations on working hours.
“The normal hours of work shall not exceed eight (8) hours, except when the exigencies of the service so require. In such a case, the maximum hours of work shall not exceed sixteen (16) hours in any twenty-four (24) hour period.” For elderly workers, hours are capped at twelve hours per day, while children’s work hours must comply with existing child labor laws.
Under the bill, media and entertainment workers will be entitled to overtime pay and night shift differential.
The proposed measure further provides that all hours spent by workers required or suffered to be on standby and are restricted to the confines of the workplace or work premises, or are required or engaged to wait shall be considered hours worked and compensable waiting time.
Also under the bill, media and entertainment workers will be entitled to overtime pay and night shift differential “for work rendered between 10:00 o’clock in the evening to 6:00 o’clock in the morning the following day,” by existing laws or applicable collective bargaining agreements.
To safeguard workers’ health and safety, his bill stresses the need for strict adherence to occupational safety and health (OSH) standards as prescribed under RA 11058. The measure details requirements for the presence of OSH personnel, the creation of safety committees, the conduct of safety drills, the provision of personal protective equipment, and the formulation of emergency preparedness plans. It emphasizes the right of workers to refuse unsafe work under the law.
Recognizing the hazardous nature of media work, the bill also proposes hazard pay “equivalent to at least twenty-five percent (25%) of their basic daily wage or compensation” for those deployed in high-risk assignments such as conflict zones, disaster areas, and disease-infested locations. While micro and small enterprises may apply for exemptions, this provision reinforces the principle that risk must be met with fair compensation.
Further enhancing workers’ security, SBN 667 calls on the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and other relevant agencies to study and submit a plan for additional insurance benefits for media and entertainment workers within two years from the law’s effectivity if enacted. These benefits may include a death benefit and reimbursement of medical expenses for work-related injuries.
Go’s proposed measure ensures that the rights and privileges granted under the bill extend to media workers in the public sector, with the Civil Service Commission tasked with crafting the necessary rules for implementation. It also provides that public media entities prioritize the regularization of qualified non-permanent employees who have rendered outstanding service.
Finally, to institutionalize continuous dialogue and consultation between stakeholders, the bill proposes the creation of an industry tripartite council for entertainment and news media, providing a forum for crafting policies and programs affecting the sector.
“The proposed measure seeks to address these concerns by providing enhanced protection, security, and incentives for media workers through additional health insurance packages, overtime and night differential pay, and other benefits provided herein.” Go stated in his explanatory note.
As part of his efforts to promote the welfare of those in the media industry, he is a co-author and co-sponsor of Republic Act No. 11996, or the Eddie Garcia Law, which provides comprehensive protection and just benefits for film and television workers.
Go, who has served as a dedicated member of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Executive Committee for six years, is also pushing for his proposal to hold the MMFF twice a year, with plans to continue and strengthen the Metro Manila Summer Film Festival.
“Asahan niyo po, patuloy akong susuporta sa industriya ng media at lahat ng mga manggagawa nito,” he concluded.
