Bill seeks 30% calamity pay for workers during disasters

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 24, 2026

MANILA, Philippines — A bill seeking additional pay for workers required to report for duty during natural disasters and severe weather conditions has been filed in the House of Representatives.

House Bill No. 4435, filed by TRABAHO Party-list Rep. Johanne Monich Bautista, proposes a 30% calamity premium on top of the regular salary of qualified public and private sector employees.

The proposed additional pay would apply to workers who are required to work in areas affected by natural calamities and other hazardous conditions covered by the measure.

In the bill’s explanatory note, Bautista said employees who continue working during disasters face risks beyond normal working conditions and may lose time that could otherwise be used to protect their families and property or recover from a calamity.

The measure seeks to institutionalize calamity pay as additional compensation for workers who continue providing services despite dangerous conditions.

House records show the bill remains pending before the Committee on Labor and Employment.