By Carmela Martinez
Female workers could obtain the benefit to go on “dysmenorrhea leave” through collective bargaining agreement with their respective employers, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said.
Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III (Keith Bacongco / MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO)
Bello noted that while there is still no law allowing female workers to go on leave because of menstrual cramps, this could still be agreed upon through mutual agreement between employees and their employers.
“Pwede ng ano, through the collective bargaining agreement (CBA),” he said in an interview over radio DZMM.
This was in line with questions that he answered regarding labor laws.
Dysmenorrhea or menstrual cramps are painful sensations that affect women before and during their menstrual period.
The pain, usually on the lower abdomen or back, can range from dull and annoying to severe and extreme. It can last for two to four days.
He also answered questions about the age discrimination in companies.
“Meron tayo batas na anti-age discrimination,” he added.
The anti-age discrimination law “prohibits arbitrary age limitations in employment.