MANILA (8/20/2025)— A new bill has been filed in the House of Representatives seeking to mandate a 14th month pay for employees in the private sector.
House Bill 3808, authored by Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) party-list Representative Raymond Mendoza, proposes that the 13th month pay be released no later than June 24 each year, while the 14th month pay should be given on or before December 24.
The measure clarifies that both benefits are subject to agreements between employees and employers, particularly where collective bargaining agreements are in place. The 14th month pay would be equivalent to one month’s salary of the worker.
Companies facing financial difficulties may apply for exemption, but this must be authorized and approved by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
A similar measure had earlier been introduced in the Senate by Minority Leader Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, reflecting growing legislative support for boosting worker benefits amid rising living costs.
If passed into law, the bill is expected to provide additional financial relief to private sector employees during mid-year and holiday seasons.
