MANILA – With the deadline looming, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has made a heartfelt plea to private sector employers to ensure their workers receive their 13th month pay by December 24, as required by law. DOLE Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma emphasized the importance of this benefit, which is mandated by the Labor Code of the Philippines and Presidential Decree 851. In a text message, Laguesma reiterated his call for employers to meet the legal deadline, expressing hope that the payment would reflect their care for their employees’ welfare. He appealed to the compassion of business owners, urging those who have not yet paid to do so as an act of kindness and concern during the holiday season. Laguesma also encouraged workers who do not receive their 13th month pay by the deadline to report the issue to the nearest DOLE office, which can summon non-compliant employers to resolve the matter. The benefit is available to all rank-and-file employees, regardless of their position or employment status. The 13th month pay should be at least one-twelfth of an employee’s total basic salary earned in a year. Senator Joel Villanueva supported DOLE’s call, reminding employers of their legal obligation and the right of employees to file complaints with the National Labor Relations Commission if their 13th month pay is withheld. Both Laguesma and Villanueva stressed the importance of ensuring Filipino families enjoy a joyful Christmas, facilitated by the timely receipt of this crucial benefit.
DOLE Urges Private Sector to Pay 13th Month Salary Before Christmas Eve
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