Sibuyan Island Leaders Urged to Register Kasambahay Workers

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has called on local leaders in Sibuyan Island to ensure the registration of kasambahay (domestic workers) under the Batas Kasambahay Law (Republic Act No. 10361). This move aims to protect the rights of domestic workers, provide them with legal benefits, and promote fair labor practices in households across the island.

Why Registration Matters for Kasambahay Workers

The Batas Kasambahay Law was enacted to safeguard the welfare of domestic workers, ensuring they receive fair wages, proper working conditions, and social security benefits. However, many kasambahay workers in remote areas like Sibuyan Island remain unregistered, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation.

Key Benefits of Registering Kasambahay Workers

Legal Protection: Registered workers are covered by labor laws, ensuring they receive just compensation and humane treatment.
Social Security: Enrollment in SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG provides financial security and healthcare benefits.
Standardized Contracts: A written employment agreement clarifies duties, working hours, and rest days.
Access to Grievance Mechanisms: Workers can report abuses or violations without fear of retaliation.

DOLE’s Appeal to Sibuyan Leaders

DOLE has intensified its campaign to educate households and local officials on the importance of kasambahay registration. The agency emphasized that barangay leaders play a crucial role in ensuring compliance, as they are closest to the community.

Steps for Registration

To simplify the process, DOLE outlined the following steps for employers:

Secure a Barangay Certificate: Employers must obtain a certification from their local barangay.
Submit Employment Contract: A written agreement detailing wages, benefits, and working conditions must be filed.
Register with SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG: Employers must enroll their kasambahay in these social welfare programs.
Submit Documents to DOLE: Final registration is completed by submitting all requirements to the nearest DOLE office.

Challenges in Sibuyan Island

Despite the law’s clear benefits, several challenges hinder full compliance in Sibuyan Island:

Lack of Awareness: Many households are unaware of the registration requirements.
Geographical Barriers: Remote locations make it difficult for workers and employers to access DOLE offices.
Informal Employment Practices: Some families still treat domestic work as informal help rather than formal employment.

How Local Leaders Can Help

DOLE is urging barangay captains, municipal officials, and community organizers to take proactive steps, including:

Conducting Information Drives: Host seminars to educate residents on kasambahay rights.
Assisting with Documentation: Help households complete registration forms and submit them to DOLE.
Monitoring Compliance: Regularly check if registered kasambahay are receiving their mandated benefits.

The Impact of Non-Compliance

Failure to register kasambahay workers has serious consequences:

Legal Penalties: Employers may face fines or legal action for violating labor laws.
Loss of Benefits: Unregistered workers miss out on SSS, PhilHealth, and other protections.
Perpetuation of Exploitation: Without formal contracts, workers remain at risk of unfair treatment.

Success Stories from Other Regions

DOLE highlighted successful kasambahay registration campaigns in provinces like Bohol and Negros Oriental, where local governments partnered with DOLE to achieve high compliance rates. These models can be replicated in Sibuyan with proper coordination.

Call to Action

DOLE encourages all Sibuyan Island residents to support this initiative by:

Registering Their Kasambahay: Ensure all domestic workers are legally covered.
Reporting Violations: Inform authorities of any cases of abuse or non-compliance.
Spreading Awareness: Share information about the Batas Kasambahay Law within their communities.

By working together, Sibuyan Island can set an example in protecting the rights of domestic workers and fostering a fair and just labor environment.