Early release of bonus to a worker in need

A longtime supervisor is requesting that management release of his 13th month pay and performance bonus early. He needs the money to pay for the hospital expenses of his spouse.

- REY ELBO

The HMO benefit is not enough to cover the treatment. Could you help HR in making an intelligent decision? — Twinkle Tony.

It happens every year starting from the “ber” months and long before Christmas jingles fill the air, especially at shopping malls. Then, out of the blue, one employee quietly knocks on HR’s door, asking if they could get their yearend bonus pay and performance bonus a little earlier.

This time, it’s not about shopping or travel plans — it’s for medical treatment, a family emergency, a hospital bill that won’t wait until December. Should HR’s compassion override policy? How?

Presidential Decree No. 851 gives all rank-and-file employees in the Philippines 13th month pay. The law requires that it be released on or before Dec. 24 of every year.

The worker is a supervisor, not an ordinary worker. Whatever, here’s my advice regardless of the employee’s rank. I suggest releasing the 13th month pay in advance for humanitarian as long as it’s properly documented. In fact, it is no different from when companies release half of the 13th month pay in May or June to coincide with school enrollment.

Legally speaking, giving it early to a worker in genuine need isn’t just permissible — it’s humane compliance. In short, you won't get in trouble with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) for showing a bit of heart. Just make sure you have the paperwork to prove it.

HR’S HEART