At A Glance
- DOLE releases the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Caregivers' Welfare Act, strengthening labor protection and access to social benefits.
- The IRR mandates just compensation, safe working conditions, caregiver registry via PhilJobNet, and regular training in partnership with TESDA.
Workers serving as caregivers in private households and care facilities nationwide are now assured of stronger labor protection and improved access to social benefits following the signing of the newly issued Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Caregivers’ Welfare Act.
Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma said the IRR, issued through Department Order No. 254, Series of 2025, underscores the Marcos administration’s commitment to uphold the rights and welfare of caregivers nationwide.
Signed by Laguesma on May 21, the IRR details key provisions of Republic Act No. 11965, including the right to just compensation and a safe, healthy working environment.
It guarantees coverage under social protection programs such as the Social Security System (SSS), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG), and the Employees’ Compensation and State Insurance Fund (ECSIF).
The guidelines also mandate the creation of a national registry of caregivers to be maintained through DOLE’s PhilJobNet platform, and provide for regular skills upgrading and reskilling programs in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
Coverage applies to all caregivers under live-in or live-out arrangements, whether hired directly or deployed through Public Employment Service Offices (PESOs) and licensed Private Employment Agencies (PEAs).
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), in coordination with concerned agencies, will issue separate rules to protect and assist Filipino caregivers working overseas.
DOLE said the IRR was developed in consultation with TESDA and key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors.
The rules will take effect 15 days after publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.