The proposed Family and Medical Leave Act of 2025
A landmark measure seeking to provide 15 days of paid family and medical leave annually to all employees, regardless of their employment status, during times of personal or family emergencies—was filed at the House of Representatives.
The measure is filed under House Bill 80 co-authored by the Revilla political clan that aims to institutionalize compassion, fairness, and equity in the workplace, especially for workers in non-regular or precarious employment arrangements.
“No one should have to choose between work and family. Through this bill, we give dignity and protection to every Filipino worker,” said principal author Cavite 1st District Rep. Ramon ‘Jolo’ Revilla III in a statement, reaffirming his vow to protect the rights and welfare of Filipino workers.
The proposed leave is separate and distinct from existing service incentive leaves, maternity/paternity leaves, and other statutory benefits. HB 80 covers a broad range of critical situations, including:
• The birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child;
• The employee’s own serious health condition;
• The need to care for a spouse, child, or parent with a serious illness.
To prevent abuse, the bill requires employees to give prior notice and submit supporting documents, except in emergencies. Employers may also require certification from a healthcare provider or competent authority.
Significantly, HB 80 includes strong anti-retaliation provisions, explicitly prohibiting employers from penalizing or discriminating against employees for availing their paid leave. Violators will be subject to administrative and monetary penalties under the bill’s enforcement mechanisms.
The measure also mandates the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to issue implementing rules and regulations, establish a grievance mechanism, and monitor compliance to ensure effective enforcement.
“Current leave benefits are not enough for workers, especially in times of crisis—if someone in the family gets sick, someone needs to be taken care of, or there is a personal emergency. It is time for the law to recognize this,” Revilla said.
HB 80 is part of Revilla’s broader pro-labor legislative agenda in the 20th Congress, reflecting his call for stronger and more inclusive worker protections.
