DOLE: Workers injured amid bad weather entitled to compensation

MANILA, Philippines — As the southwest monsoon affected many areas in the country, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on Friday reminded employees that they can avail of compensation if they suffer work-related injuries amid the inclement weather. 

The DOLE said the compensation and support services fall under the Employees’ Compensation Program of the Employees’ Compensation Commission, which is designed to protect workers’ well-being and financial security.

READ: Dole: Work alternatives and no sanctions amid disruptive events

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ECC Executive Director Kaima Velasquez said that the coverage of the compensation is not limited to the time when they are at their workplace. She then pointed out that the income replacement is an important factor of the benefit among private employees. 

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“This financial assistance serves as a substitute salary for employees who are temporarily unable to report for duty due to job-related accidents or sickness, bridging the gap until they fully heal and resume their normal employment,” the DOLE said in a press release. 

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The agency added that employees can avail medical reimbursement that covers up to 60% of their treatment and doctor consultation. It then reminded workers to keep their hospital and medical receipts to avail of the service. 

Private employees seeking this benefit may file their claims through the Social Security System (SSS), while government workers can connect with the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) for their claims. 

The agency also said that workers who sustained injuries off-site or during their commute are only required to present a valid documentation of the incident to the SSS or GSIS to establish their eligibility of the benefits. /jpv