By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has signed Republic Act No. 11996, also known as the Eddie Garcia Law, aimed at safeguarding the rights of movie and television workers.
The law ensures that workers are protected by their employers or principals in the workplace. It includes provisions for regulating work hours, wages, social security and welfare benefits, as well as ensuring necessities, health, safety, working conditions, standards, and insurance.
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) highlighted that this legislation was crafted in response to the tragic accident that led to Garcia’s death on a filming set. It mandates that employers and workers must agree to terms in a language or dialect understood by both parties before commencing work.
The law explicitly prohibits discrimination based on factors such as race, color, descent, national or ethnic origin, or religion. It emphasizes the equal recognition and enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all workers.
Signed on May 24, the Eddie Garcia Law marks a significant step toward protecting the movie industry.
(el Amigo/MNM)