Maternity Leave in the Philippines: A Must-Know Guide for Filipino Employees and Working Moms

Being pregnant while working is no small thing. You’re growing a life while juggling deadlines, dealing with morning sickness during Zoom calls, or sneaking naps during lunch breaks because you’re exhausted—but still showing up. I’ve seen this firsthand through years of working with Filipino professionals. And yet, many women don’t even know their rights when it comes to maternity leave in the Philippines.

So, let’s clear the air and put the power back in your hands.

Whether you’re in a permanent job on contract or freelancing, this guide is here to help you understand your maternity leave benefits, how to claim them, and what to do when your employer starts acting funny. Kasi, mama, this is your right—not a favor anyone’s doing for you.

What Is Maternity Leave Under Philippine Law?

Under the Expanded Maternity Leave Law (Republic Act No. 11210), working mothers in the Philippines are entitled to 105 days of paid maternity leave, with an option to extend for 30 more days unpaid. This applies whether you gave birth via normal delivery or caesarean section.

If you’re a solo parent, you get 120 days paid—that’s 15 extra days because you’ll be doing this alone, and the law recognizes your strength.

This law applies to:

• Employees in the public and private sectors

• Voluntary or self-employed women registered with SSS

• Female kasambahays (household workers)

• Even if you had a miscarriage or emergency termination, you're still entitled to 60 days of paid leave.

When Should You File for Maternity Leave?

Ideally, you should file for your maternity leave at least 30 days before your expected due date. This allows enough time for your HR department or employer to process your leave request and make necessary adjustments in your workload. It’s important to communicate this early on to ensure that there is no last-minute rush, and it also gives your team enough time to plan for your absence.

When filing, make sure to inform your HR or employer in writing. You’ll need to attach a few required documents, such as your medical certificate or ultrasound report that confirms your pregnancy and gives your expected due date. These documents will serve as official proof of your condition and help HR verify your eligibility for maternity benefits.

Tip of advice: Don’t wait for the last minute. Filing early helps HR process your benefits and schedule handovers. Most of the jobs in Clark, Pampanga prefer early filing so HR can handle your documents smoothly and plan your temporary replacement ahead of time. Workplaces are often fast-moving, especially in BPOs, logistics, and industrial zones—so the earlier you file, the less stress for everyone. Mas smooth lahat pag maaga ang galaw.

Do You Need to Be a Regular Employee to Avail Maternity Leave?

One of the biggest misconceptions is that maternity benefits are only for regular employees. Nope, that’s outdated thinking

You’re eligible as long as you’ve paid at least three monthly SSS contributions in the 12 months before the semester of your delivery, miscarriage, or emergency termination. That’s it.

So if you're freelancing, juggling side hustles, or working temporary gigs, you still have rights. This law was built to protect all working women—whatever your employment status.

So yes, Mama, kahit hindi ka regular, basta SSS-contributing ka—may karapatan ka.

Can You Transfer Some of Your Leave to the Baby’s Dad?

Yes! As part of the Expanded Maternity Leave Law, you can allocate up to 7 days of your maternity leave to the father of your child, whether you're married or not. This is known as the Paternity Leave Allocation, and it’s an important benefit for both parents, recognizing that the father also needs time to support the mother and bond with the newborn.

This 7-day allocation is optional, meaning it’s up to you to decide if you'd like to share a portion of your leave. If you choose to do so, it’s essential to inform HR ahead of time so they can make the necessary adjustments in your leave records. Additionally, you’ll need to file the appropriate paternity leave form to ensure everything is processed correctly.

Remember, the father doesn’t have to be a biological parent; the law covers any person who is legally recognized as the father—whether or not you’re married. This benefit ensures that both parents have the opportunity to participate in the early stages of their child's life, which can be crucial for their emotional well-being and bonding.

How Much Will You Receive?

If you’re covered by the Social Security System (SSS), you’ll receive 100% of your average daily salary credit (ADSC) for every day of leave. That means for 105 days, you’ll get your full SSS maternity benefit.

Now, if you're working in a company, your employer will usually advance this payment to you and then get reimbursed by SSS. It’s important that you’ve made at least 3 monthly contributions in the 12 months before your semester of childbirth or miscarriage.

Not sure about your contributions? You can check your SSS records online or visit the nearest branch.

What If Your Boss Gives You a Hard Time About Taking Leave?

Let’s be firm here: That’s illegal.

Employers cannot deny, delay, or reduce your maternity benefits. They also can’t terminate you just because you're pregnant or on leave. If they do, that’s discrimination and could be grounds for legal action.

If you experience this, you can file a complaint with:

• The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)

• The Commission on Human Rights (CHR), if there are discriminatory practices

You’re not alone. Protect your rights. Many in-demand jobs in the Philippines are starting to prioritize inclusive and supportive workplace practices—especially for working mothers. Whether you're in healthcare, education, tech, or BPO industries, it's your right to feel safe and respected. These growing sectors can also be great environments to transition into, especially if you're looking for better support and work-life balance after maternity leave.

A Gentle Reminder Before You Go on Leave

Prepare yourself emotionally and mentally. Maternity leave isn’t just a break from work—it’s a sacred time to rest, heal, and bond with your baby. Sayang, kung guguluhin ka ng paperwork or missed pay, here’s a quick checklist:

File your leave early

Filing your maternity leave application at least 30 days before your due date gives HR time to process your request, assign your tasks to someone else, and prepare your benefits. It keeps things smooth and stress-free—for you and your team.

Submit all required documents

Your employer (or SSS, if you're applying directly) will need a few things: a medical certificate or ultrasound report, your leave form, and your MAT-1 (for SSS). Submitting them on time avoids delays in your benefit payout.

Double-check your SSS contributions

To be eligible, you need at least 3 monthly contributions in the 12 months before the semester of your delivery or miscarriage. Check your SSS online account or visit a branch. It’s your right—make sure your records are up to date.

Talk to HR about your return-to-work plan

Let them know how long you’re taking off and if you plan to use the optional 30-day extension. This sets clear expectations and helps you transition back smoothly after your leave. Mas okay, pag may malinaw na usapan.

Don’t be afraid to speak up if something feels off

If your employer is withholding your benefits, pressuring you to work while on leave, or making you feel guilty for taking time off—that’s not okay. Know your rights. You can report unfair practices to DOLE. Your health, your baby, and your peace of mind come first.

Final Takeaway

Pregnancy doesn’t make you any less of a professional. It’s a testament to your strength. Maternity leave benefits in the Philippines aren’t just there to “help out”—they exist to protect you. They are part of your right to a dignified, supported, and empowered working life.

So take your time. Breathe. Heal. Bond with your baby. And when you’re ready to return, you’ll do it on your terms—stronger, wiser, and braver than ever.