House bill seeks stronger protection, benefits for media workers

A bill has been filed in the House of Representatives seeking to strengthen labor rights, safety measures, and welfare benefits for media workers nationwide.

House Bill No. 7431, or the Media Personnel Protection and Welfare Act, was filed by Ako Bicol Party-list Representatives Jan Almario Chan and Alfredo Garbin Jr.

The proposed measure covers reporters, field correspondents, photojournalists, camera operators, editors, producers, and all individuals involved in news gathering and dissemination.

“The crisis is not limited to physical safety,” the bill’s explanatory note stated. “Recent studies have shown that many Filipino media workers continue to experience low and unstable incomes, often earning below prevailing wage standards, especially in regional and community newsrooms.”

“The hazards they face are equally grave,” it added. “During conflict reporting, disaster coverage, crime assignments, or health emergencies, journalists routinely work without hazard pay, protective equipment, or insurance.”

Under the bill, all media personnel shall be entitled to wages, fees, or professional compensation not lower than those mandated by law and not below the applicable minimum wage.

The measure also requires media entities to enroll all qualified media personnel in the Social Security System (SSS), the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and the Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG).

“Media entities shall remit employer and employee contributions to SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG in a timely manner and in accordance with existing laws and regulations,” the bill stated.

The proposed legislation further mandates death benefits of not less than ₱200,000, permanent disability insurance of up to ₱200,000 depending on the degree of disability, and medical expense reimbursement of up to ₱100,000.

It also requires media entities to issue written contracts for all engagements—whether regular or freelance—clearly specifying compensation, duties, and safety provisions.

In addition, media entities must ensure that freelancers are provided insurance coverage for the duration of their assignments. Freelancers are likewise encouraged to maintain active membership in SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG.

“Media entities engaging freelancers may facilitate voluntary contributions as part of the written contract or provide information on the appropriate enrollment mechanisms,” the bill added.—MCG, GMA Integrated News