With Christmas fast approaching, the Department of Labor and Employment reminded private employers to release the mandatory 13th-month pay on or before December 24, emphasizing it as a statutory right of all rank-and-file workers.
Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma warned that delays or nonpayment constitute violations that may result in money claims, damages, and interest under the law.
DOLE clarified that the benefit covers all rank-and-file employees—including piece-rate workers, commission earners, and kasambahay—provided they worked at least one month within the year.
Employers are required to submit compliance reports to DOLE’s online portal by January 15, 2026, as regional offices intensify inspections and enforcement.
While urging compliance, Laguesma advised struggling businesses to negotiate with workers, but stressed that no exemptions or deferred payments will be allowed.
Source: PhilNews24 | December 3, 2025
