The Commission on Human Rights (CHR), being the Philippines’ Gender Ombud under the Magna Carta of Women, urges the passage of Senate Bill No. 148 (SBN 148) or the Maternity Benefit for Women in the Informal Economy Act.
In line with the Republic Act 9710, also known as the Magna Carta of Women, and the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals centered on maternal and child health, it is incumbent upon the State to ensure the protection of all women regardless of their background and circumstance. SBN 148 endeavors to promote not only the welfare of Filipino women in the informal sector but also seeks to promote the State’s obligation to protect their children.
As of current, the prices for goods and commodities continue to spike, leaving household members—including pregnant women—to find ways to make ends meet for their families, thus leading them to take part in the informal sector. Even with this sector’s large contribution to the economy, measuring up to 12.8% of the country’s GDP in 2019, and a significant number of constituents, employing 5.72 million people, they remain unprotected and unsupported.
The COVID-19 pandemic’s aftermath had also brought about numerous difficulties and setbacks—from the escalating inflation rates and price hikes to the inaccessibility of government services and aid. One of the most vulnerable sectors affected by the pandemic are women who belong to the informal economy, with some being non-members of the Social Security System (SSS), and are unable to meet their needs nor have the benefit of being granted cash aid during their pregnancies.
Given that Republic Act 11210, also known as the 105-Day Expanded Maternity Leave Law, only includes those who have contributed to the SSS, a notable number of women are unable to avail of the cash aid that comes along with the maternity leave. Furthermore, it is reported that approximately 250,000 Filipino women do not have access to such benefits as members of the informal sector. As we account for the average minimum wage in the country—which falls below Php 570—amidst sizable costs and fees, the passage of the bill is expedient for Filipino women in the informal sector and their children.
The Covenant on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) underscores that the role of women in procreation should not be a basis of discrimination. SBN 148 shall help ensure that women in the informal economy, including their children, will enjoy the same assistance as those in the formal sector. This is crucial in ensuring equal access and opportunities for this disadvantaged sector in line with the principles of social justice. Providing the disadvantaged women workforce not only the healthcare services and time but also the economic means to sustain their families from the very onset of pregnancy is also a timely response to pressing issues, such as poverty and malnutrition.
The Commission anticipates the full support of both chambers of Congress in the passage of the bill to demonstrate their commitment to alleviating the plight and dignity of the women workforce in the informal economy and their children, especially during this crucial period of rebuilding and recovery. For our part, CHR continues to be open for consultation to ensure that the bill fully responds to the rights and unique circumstances of this disadvantaged sector. ###