DAVAO CITY, Philippines —President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has enacted Republic Act 11996, known as the “Eddie Garcia Law,” to safeguard the welfare of workers in the movie and television industry. Signed on May 24, this legislation honors the memory of the legendary actor Eddie Garcia, who tragically died following an accident on a film set.
The law mandates comprehensive protections for industry workers, including regulated work hours, fair wages, social security, health and safety standards, and insurance coverage. It aligns with the Labor Code of the Philippines (Presidential Decree No. 442) and Republic Act No. 11058, which strengthens compliance with occupational safety and health standards.
A significant aspect of the Eddie Garcia Law is the requirement for employers and workers to sign an agreement or employment contract in a mutually understood language before work begins. This contract must not discriminate against workers with contracts from other production outfits, unless exclusivity is specified. Additionally, it prohibits discrimination based on race, color, descent, national or ethnic origin, or religion.
Work hours are to be determined by the terms of the contract, and wages must meet or exceed the regional minimum wage. Payments are to be made timely and directly to the worker. The employment of minors must comply with Republic Act No. 7610 as amended by Republic Act No. 9231.
All industry workers are entitled to benefits from the Social Security System (SSS), Pag-IBIG Fund, and PhilHealth. Employers are required to uphold occupational safety and health standards as stipulated in Republic Act No. 11058 and Section 25 of Republic Act No. 11036.
The law also emphasizes the importance of continuous skills development. It directs the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to collaborate with relevant agencies and stakeholders to implement ongoing training and upskilling programs for industry workers.
Violations of the Eddie Garcia Law carry significant fines, ranging from up to PHP 100,000 for a first offense to PHP 500,000 for third and subsequent offenses. These fines apply to responsible officers of violating entities, including executive producers, producers, production managers, and business unit managers.
The enactment of the Eddie Garcia Law is a pivotal step toward ensuring the safety, welfare, and professional growth of workers in the Philippine movie and television industry.
