{HR Mom} Handbook on Workers' Statutory Monetary Benefits

I am glad that the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) - Bureau of Working Conditions released the Handbook on Workers' Statutory Monetary Benefits (2012 Edition).  I am an HR Practitioner but I certainly do not memorize the Labor Code and its Implementing Rules and Guidelines.  I was certainly delighted when I got a copy of the handbook because it is updated and well-summarized.

The Handbook contains the compliance guidelines on:

1. Minimum Wage
2. Holiday Pay 
3. Premium Pay 
4. Overtime Pay 
5. Night Shift Differential 
6. Service Charges 
7. Service Incentive Leave
8. Maternity Leave 
9. Paternity Leave
10. Parental Leave for Solo Parents
11. Leave for Victims of Violence Against Women and Their Children
12. Special Leave for Women
13. Thirteenth-Month Pay
14. Separation Pay
15. Retirement Pay
16. Benefits Under the Employees' Compensation Program
17. Philhealth Benefits
18. SSS Benefits

The Handbook includes information about the Parental Leave for Solo Parents and Special Leave for Women.  I am glad they included it in the handbook because not all working moms know the details of these leave benefits.  Yes, aside from Service Incentive Leave (commonly known as Vacation Leave and Sick Leave) and Maternity Leave, there are other leave benefits that some women are entitled to.

I suggest you get a copy and read the handbook.  Though our employers should be fully informed of their obligations, it is important that we, as employees, are knowledgeable about our Constitutionally-protected and guaranteed rights.

You may visit the website of DOLE - Bureau of Working Conditions to download the Handbook.

{HR Mom} Have a New Baby? Update your Employee Records

The arrival of a baby in the family is such a blessing and of course, life changing.  If you are a working mom, aside from the adjustments that you do at home, you also need to update your employment records as soon as you go back to work after your maternity leave.

Your Company HR cannot automatically update your records.  It is your responsibility to formally inform them of the changes by accomplishing and submitting the necessary forms and requirements.

You cannot update your records with out your baby's birth certificate.

• The original birth certificate is available 2-3 weeks after you gave birth.
• The NSO issued birth certificate will only be available 3-4 months after you gave birth.
• Because you need to update your records as soon as possible, you may request for certified true copies (CTC) at the city hall where your baby's birth certificate was issued.  To avoid the hassle of going back when you need it again, request for at least five (5) CTCs.

So, what do you need to update after giving birth?