Bill declaring ‘kasambahay’ holiday passes 2nd reading

The bill declaring Jan.18 of every year as a special non-working holiday for all “kasambahays” or household helpers in the country is inching its way into becoming a law as it hurdled second reading at the House of Representatives. (PNA photo)

MANILA — The bill declaring Jan.18 of every year as a special non-working holiday for all “kasambahays” or household helpers in the country is inching its way into becoming a law as it hurdled second reading at the House of Representatives.

Through voice voting, lawmakers approved on second reading House Bill 6825, which declares Jan. 18 as “Araw ng Kasambahay”.
The bill provides that in the event the special day falls on a weekend, the holiday shall be observed on the Friday of that week.

House Majority Leader Rodolfo Fariñas, author of the bill, said the special non-working holiday is in due recognition and appreciation of the domestic workers’ invaluable service to every family and home.

“Domestic workers dedicate their efforts to promote the well-being of their employers,” Fariñas said. “This labor and social landmark legislation embodies the recognition of domestic workers as heroes in our households, whose rights and welfare should be strengthened, protected and promoted.”

Under the bill, the Department of Labor and Employment Secretary, in coordination with the Secretary of Education and Director-General of the Philippine Information Agency, is tasked to plan and implement activities for the continuing dissemination and information campaign to honor “kasambahays.”