Marcos signs 'Eddie Garcia' Law

Named after a veteran actor, the "Eddie Garcia Law" has been signed by President Marcos to protect and ensure the welfare of workers in the movie and television industry.

- HELEN FLORES

Republic Act 11996, signed on May 24, mandates the implementation of work hours, wages and other wagerelated benefits, social security and welfare services, basic necessities, health and safety, working conditions and standards and insurance.

Workers and employers or principals shall execute an agreement or an employment contract in a language or dialect understood by both parties before the commencement of service, according to RA 11996.

Employers must comply with occupational safety and health standards.

The minimum wage shall not be less than the applicable minimum wage in the region where the worker is hired and wages shall be paid on time directly to the worker.

Workers are entitled to benefits provided by the Social Security System, the Home Development Mutual Fund and the Philippine Health Insurance Corp.