ON THE eve of the deadline for the provision of the 13th month pay, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is urging employees who will not be able to get them by Saturday, December 24, 2022, to report their erring employers.

In a radio interview, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said they are encouraging such employees to report their employers to the nearest DOLE office.

“They can go to the nearest DOLE office to file their reports or complaints,” said Laguesma.

“They can also simply ask for assistance, and not necessarily file a complaint,” he added.

For those concerned about possible backlash for complaining to their employers, the labor chief said it can be done anonymously.

“They can ask for help from DOLE and we can simply conduct an inspection of the establishment,” said Laguesma.

He said those asking for assistance will be provided guidance by DOLE.

“The DOLE may politely talk to the employer to explain and remind them of the law on 13th month pay,” said Laguesma.

Presidential Decree (PD) No. 851 requires all employers in the private sector to give their employees 13th month pays.

PD No. 851 also states that the 13 month pay should be paid on or before December 24 of the current year. (HDT/SunStar Philippines)