Social Security System (SSS) recently announced that the implementing rules and regulation (IRR) of the newly expanded maternity leave law will be released in time for Labor Day (May 1).
In an interview, SSS media affairs department acting head May Rose Francisco confirmed that SSS is working together with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Civil Service Commission (CSC) in creating the IRR. However, it was earlier speculated that the expanded law will shorten the SSS’ fund life. Due to this, SSS monthly contributions are increased.
The additional increase in the contributions is deemed necessary to adjust the funds as SSS gears up for the implementation of expanded maternity leave law. The contribution rate of each member hiked from 11 percent to 12 percent.
It was in February when President Rodrigo Duterte signed the said law giving additional maternity leave benefits to all female workers. From 60 days, female SSS members can now have a 105-days paid maternity leave regardless of the civil status and legitimacy of the newborn. Mothers can also extend their leave for 30 more unpaid days. On top of that, solo mothers will get an additional 15-days leave.
Source: Inquirer.net
The expanded maternity leave will be applicable to SSS female members to every instance of pregnancy, emergency termination of pregnancy or miscarriage.
The law also includes the option of sharing 7 days of maternity leave to the father of the newborn baby. This raises teh paternity leave from 7 days to 14 days.
Related: Complete list of SSS benefits
The said law is passed in hoped to decrease the infant mortality rate and help mothers regain their pristine health before going back to work. Add to that, the longer maternity leave will give the mothers the chance to bond with their babies.
