Palace: No more ceremonial signing of Kasambahay law

There will be no more ceremonial signing in Malacañang by President Benigno Aquino III of the new Kasambahay law, a Palace spokesperson said Sunday. Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said on government-run dzRB: “Wala na po... wala nang magiging ceremonial signing." Citing Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz’s earlier statement, she said, what is important is that the law has been signed. “(Mga) 19 years nakaupo sa Kongreso ang panukalang ito." Last week, the Palace confirmed Aquino signed Republic Act 10361 or “An Act Instituting Policies for the Protection and Welfare of Domestic Workers” last January 18. The new law sets a minimum wage of domestic helpers in the country to P2,500 a month for those in Metro Manila; P2,000 a month for those in chartered cities and first class towns; and P1,500 a month for those employed in other towns. Also, employers are required to pay the domestic helpers in cash and to provide them with payslips. Vice President Jejomar Binay welcomed the signing of the new measure, saying it is a big step in the right direction for some 2.5 million household workers. — LBG, GMA News