The House of Representatives approved on third and final reading a measure that ensures the protection of workers in the entertainment industry.
House Deputy Speaker and 1-Pacman Representative Michael “Mikee” Romero was driven to author the House Bill No. 7762 or the “Eddie Garcia Act” after the fatal accident of the late actor at a production set in 2019.
Garcia reportedly went into comatose for 12 days before facing his demise.
Romero, who is also the stepson of the “Rainbow’s Sunset” star, expressed his gratitude to the 235 legislators that voted for the approval.
“Under the bill, the entertainment industry is required to ensure protection of all its workers. Workplace safety and health protocols shall be primordial to eliminate personal injury, illness or even death from occurring inside the workplace,” he said.
Once enacted, the “Eddie Garcia Act” shall follow a minimum of 8 working hours among production staff, whereas an overtime pay shall be provided to those who will report for a maximum of 12 hours.
The employers will also be required to issue a contract to its employees indicating the following:
• Job position and status
• Job description
• Period of employment
• Details of compensation and other benefits
• Authorized deductions, if any
• Hours of work and proportionate additional payment for overtime hours
• Board, lodging, and medical attention
• Code of conduct
• Grievance mechanism for the employee
• Employer’s policies
• Any other lawful condition agreed upon by both parties
The “Eddie Garcia Act” will also order that the entertainment industry workers should receive no less than the minimum wage. Additionally, they will be set to basic benefits such as Social Security System, the Pag-ibig Fund, and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation.
Aside from that, employers will also be mandated to supply basic necessities for its workers. This includes meals for every 6 hours of work, enough drinking water, PWD-friendly and gender-considerate bathrooms, private dressing rooms, holding areas, emergency vehicles, and free accommodation for out-of-town projects.