AS severe weather conditions heighten workplace hazards and commuting risks across the country, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reminded Filipino workers that injuries sustained during inclement weather—including those suffered during daily commutes—are fully covered by the Employees’ Compensation (EC) Program.
Administered by the Employees’ Compensation Commission (ECC), the program aims to safeguard workers’ health and financial security, aligning with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s mandate to prioritize labor welfare.
ECC Executive Director Atty. Kaima Via B. Velasquez clarified that coverage extends beyond regular workplace hours to include travel to and from work. Incidents such as slipping on rain-slicked streets or falling into uncovered manholes during a commute qualify for benefits.
To support affected employees, the EC Program offers a comprehensive assistance package:
- Income Replacement: Financial aid serving as a salary substitute for employees temporarily unable to work due to job-related sickness or accidents.
- Medical Reimbursement: Coverage for up to 60% of treatment and doctor consultation expenses, provided workers retain official hospital and medical receipts.
Filing procedures vary by employment sector. Private-sector employees can process their claims through the Social Security System (SSS), while public-sector employees should file via the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS).
Self-employed individuals must submit their claims independently through the SSS mobile app. For off-site or commute-related accidents, claimants only need to present valid documentation of the incident to establish eligibility.
For further inquiries, workers may reach out via regional extension units, the official ECC Facebook page, or their website at www.ecc.gov.ph.
Separately, DOLE issued Labor Advisory No. 13, Series of 2026, outlining pay rules for Ninoy Aquino Day, a special non-working day pursuant to Proclamation No. 1006, Series of 2025.
Under the advisory, the “no work, no pay” principle applies unless favorable company policies or collective bargaining agreements state otherwise.
Employees working on this day are entitled to an additional 30% of their basic wage for the first eight hours, plus an extra 30% hourly premium for overtime.
Those working on a scheduled rest day receive a 50% premium for the first eight hours, with additional overtime pay calculated accordingly.
