TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE _)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES —_)
First Regular Session )

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

House Bill No. 2478

Introduced by Hon. Antonio B. Legarda, Jr.

AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR THE MAGNA CARTA OF WASTE WORKERS.

EXPLANATORY NOTE

Across the Philippines and around the world, millions of waste workers operate
without hazard pay, social protection, or even legal recognition. They form the
backbone of our waste management system, yet remain among the most neglected,
vulnerable, and invisible members of the labor force.

Whether in landfills, streets, or recycling centers, waste workers, particularly
those in the informal sector, perform critical services that safeguard public health,
protect the environment, and support the transition to a circular economy. And yet,
they do so under hazardous conditions, with little to no access to healthcare, fair
wages, or occupational safety mechanisms.

Waste workers are generally classified into formal and informal sectors, but
both groups face systemic challenges: low and irregular income, job insecurity,
discrimination, and constant exposure to harmful substances. The absence of clear
institutional support and legal protections has long left them excluded from the
benefits and rights accorded to other workers.

This bill seeks to correct that gap.

The proposed Magna Carta for Waste Workers aims to recognize their
indispensable contributions and guarantee core rights and protections, including:

1. Access to hazard pay and occupational health services;


2. Livelihood and social protection programs;
3. Protections against stigma, discrimination, and unsafe labor practices.

By institutionalizing support for waste workers, this measure advances a more
inclusive and equitable waste governance system—one that upholds the dignity of
labor and ensures that no worker is left behind.

In line with the policy espoused by its original proponent, Senator Loren
Legarda, this bill is being introduced as a counterpart measure. In view of the

foregoing, the immediate passage of this measure is earnestly sought.

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TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES —_)
First Regular Session )

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

House Bill No. 2473

Introduced by Hon. Antonio B. Legarda, Jr.

AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR THE MAGNA CARTA OF WASTE WORKERS

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress

assembled:

TITLE
GENERAL PROVISIONS.

CHAPTER I
BASIC PRINCIPLE

Section 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the “Magna Carta of Waste
Workers.”

Sec 2. Declaration of Policy. - In recognition of the vital role played by Waste
Workers in preserving public health, environmental sustainability, and the overall
well-being of our communities, the State shall endeavor to develop plans, policies,
programs, measures, and mechanisms rooted in principles of fairness and social
justice, safeguarding the rights and dignity of Waste Workers.

‘The State shall ensure the protection of their rights and welfare through

inclusive, rights-based, and gender-responsive policies and programs. It shall

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guarantee fair compensation, safe and humane working conditions, and access to
comprehensive health and social protection benefits. Waste Workers shall be free from.
discrimination, exploitation, and harassment, and shall be recognized as essential
partners in sustainable development.

The State shall institutionalize mechanisms for training, occupational safety,
and access to protective equipment and medical support. It shall also promote public
awareness on proper waste management and the indispensable contributions of
Waste Workers, in accordance with Republic Act Nos. 6969 and 9003.

The State shall ensure that collaborative efforts involving the government, civil
society, and the private sector aim to raise public awareness about the vital
contributions of Waste Workers and foster a culture of respect for their profession.

The State shall establish mechanisms for the effective implementation and
monitoring of this Act. There shall be regular assessments of working conditions,
benefits, and overall well-being of Waste Workers conducted, with policy adjustments
made as necessary to address emerging challenges.

Sec 3. Coverage. - This law shall apply to all persons employed, contracted, or
engaged, and all those economically dependent on the marginalized sectors, in
activities on the management, collection, transportation, processing, and disposal of
solid wastes, hazardous wastes, and toxic chemicals and substances including but not

limited to residual and healthcare wastes.

CHAPTER II
DEFINITION OF WASTE WORKERS

Sec 4. Waste Workers. - Waste workers shall refer to all persons whose livelihood
is dependent on waste management, collection, transportation, processing, and
disposal, and include, but are not limited to, garbage collectors, waste pickers,
segregators, and recyclers.

Waste workers, by the nature of their livelihood, are considered part of the
disadvantaged and vulnerable sectors of society. They are often among those living in

poverty, with limited or no access to essential resources and basic social and economic
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services, including health care, education, housing security, and access to the justice

system.

TITLE IE
RIGHTS AND PROTECTION OF WASTE WORKERS

CHAPTERI
COMMON PROVISIONS

Sec 5. Right to Decent Work. - The State shall ensure the promotion and
protection of decent work standards for Waste Workers, grounded in the full
recognition of their rights and dignity as laborers. This includes the guarantee of fair
terms of employment, protection from occupational and health hazards, and access to
essential support services that enable the fulfillment of their rights.

Sec 6. Right to Participation and Information. - All Waste Workers shall have the
right to participate meaningfully in decisions that affect their work, health, and overall
well-being. This right includes access to timely and relevant information on policies,
programs, projects, training, and other initiatives concerning Waste Workers.

Participation shall extend to the formulation, implementation, monitoring, and
evaluation of policies, regulations, and practices related to waste management and
labor rights. Waste Workers shall be represented in relevant consultative and
decision-making bodies to ensure that their voices are heard and their interests
safeguarded.

Waste Workers shall be accorded representation in both the City or Municipal
Solid Waste Management Board (SWM Board) and the Barangay Solid Waste
Management Board (BSW Board), to wit:

a) At least one seat in the SWM Board shall be allocated for a

representative(s) of waste workers directly involved in solid waste
management activities within the jurisdiction.

b) The waste worker representative(s) shall be selected through a
transparent and inclusive process.

©) The waste worker representative(s) shall report back to their respective
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constituencies on SWM Board activities, decisions, and outcomes.

d) The SWM Board shall periodically review the effectiveness of worker
representation and make adjustments as necessary to ensure meaningful
participation and accountability.

Sec 7. Social Protection. - The State shall ensure that all Waste Workers are
covered under appropriate social protection programs. This includes mandatory
coverage under the Social Security System (SSS) or the Government Service Insurance
System (GSIS), as applicable, as well as membership in the Home Development
Mutual Fund (Pag-Ibig), and Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth).

Sec 8. Hazard Pay. - Waste Workers, in both private and public sectors, who are
regularly exposed to health and occupational hazards, or to working conditions that
involve a high risk of injury, illness, or deterioration of health, shall be entitled to
hazard pay. The amount and conditions for the grant of such compensation shall be
determined in accordance with existing labor laws, occupational safety and health
standards, and the implementing rules and regulations of this Act.

Sec 9. Annual Medical, Dental, Mental, and Psychosocial Examination. - All Waste
Workers shall be provided with free annual medical services, which shall include,
but not be limited to, physical, dental, mental health, and psychosocial
examinations. These health services shall aim to monitor, prevent, and address
occupational illnesses and work-related health conditions. This shall be administered
by accredited health institutions in coordination with the Department of Health
(DOH), local government units, and other relevant agencies.

Sec 10. Occupational Health and Safety Standards Program. - There shall be an
established occupational health program for all Waste Workers to provide basic
equipment such as, but not limited to, the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment
(PPE) based on the nature of their work.

This program shall be implemented in coordination with the Department of
Health (DOH), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), local government
units, and other concerned agencies. The OHS Program shall be regularly reviewed
and updated to respond to emerging occupational risks and public health concerns

affecting Waste Workers.


CHAPTER II
WASTE WORKERS IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR

See 11. Right to a Minimum Wage. - Waste Workers shall be entitled to receive
no less than the minimum wage prescribed for non-agricultural workers in their
respective regions, as determined by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity
Board (RTWPB). The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) shall issue the
appropriate rules and regulations for the effective implementation of this provision,
including wage payment schedules, methods, and compliance mechanisms.

Sec 12. Work Days and Work Hours. - Waste Workers shall be entitled to regular
work hours and rest periods in accordance with the provisions of the Labor Code of
the Philippines and other applicable laws, rules, and regulations. This includes
entitlement to night shift differential pay for work performed between 10:00 p.m. and
6:00 a.m., as may be prescribed by the DOLE.

Sec 13. Overtime Pay. - Waste Workers who render services beyond the
prescribed working hours shall be entitled to overtime pay in accordance with the
rates, conditions, and procedures provided under the Labor Code of the Philippines,
its implementing rules, and other relevant regulations.

Sec 14. Holiday Pay and Rest Day. - Waste Workers who are required or
permitted to work on a regular holiday, special holiday, or rest day shall be entitled
to additional compensation, as mandated by the Labor Code and relevant issuances
of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). The determination of
applicable rates, holiday classifications, and entitlement shall be governed by existing
laws and DOLE regulations: Provided, where the collective bargaining agreement or
other applicable employment contract stipulates the payment of a higher premium
pay than that prescribed under this Section, the employer shall pay such a higher rate.

Sec 15. Enforcement of Labor Laws. - All rights and benefits pertaining to
conditions of employment, occupational safety and health, social welfare, labor
relations, and post-employment shall be enforced in accordance with the existing and

applicable laws and rules. The DOLE, in coordination with concerned agencies and


local government units, shall issue the necessary rules and regulations for the effective
enforcement of this Act.

Sec 16. Health Services. - Waste Workers shall be entitled to access
comprehensive health services, including regular medical check-ups, hospitalization,
and preventive health care, through arrangements with Health Maintenance
Organizations (HMOs) or other accredited medical providers, subject to guidelines to
be issued in the implementing rules and regulations.

Sec 17. Security of Tenure. - No Waste Worker shall be dismissed from
employment except for a just or authorized cause, and only after the observance of
due process, in accordance with the Labor Code and existing rules and regulations.

Sec 18. Self-Organization and Union Membership. - All Waste Workers shall have
the right to self-organization, including the right to form, join, or assist legitimate labor
organizations, cooperatives, or associations of their own choosing, for the purpose of
promoting, protecting, and advancing their collective interests, and extending mutual
support and assistance. This right shall be exercised free from interference, restraint,
or coercion by employers, government authorities, or any other entity.

Waste Workers shall be eligible for union membership from the first day of
their employment, and may engage in collective bargaining and other lawful
concerted activities, in accordance with the Labor Code of the Philippines and
applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

Sec 19. Non-Abridgement of the Right to Self-Organization. - No person shall be
allowed to restrain, coerce, or unduly interfere with the Waste Workers in their
exercise of their right to self-organization in accordance with law.

It shall be unlawful for any person to commit the following. acts of restraint,
coercion, or undue interference:

a) To prevent a Waste Worker from carrying out his duties in his
organization or association;

b) To discriminate in hiring a Waste Worker or setting unfavorable
conditions upon him to discourage him from membership in any
organization or association;

©) To require as a condition of employment that a Waste Worker must not
join any organization or association;

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) To interfere in the functioning and administration of the organization or
association.

Sec. 20. Emergency Allowance Provision. - Waste Workers who are required to

render service in the field during emergencies and disasters shall be entitled to

emergency allowance computed based on prevailing rates and conditions as may be

determined by the DOLE.

CHAPTER II
WASTE WORKERS IN THE GOVERNMENT

See 21. Coverage. - This Chapter shall apply to all persons rendering services in
the Government for compensation, regardless of status of employment and/or
engaged or contracted for services.

Sec 22. Right to self-organization. - Waste Workers of government corporations
established under the Corporation Code shall have the right to organize and to
bargain collectively with their respective employers. All other employees in the civil
service shall have the right to form associations for purposes not contrary to law.

Sec 23. Health Care System. - Every Waste Worker shall be guaranteed with a
health care delivery system and access to public or private primary care provider of
choice. The respective LGU shall establish a program and promulgate guidelines for
the availment of health care benefits.

Sec 24. Financial Assistance. - Local Government Units (LGUs) shall endeavor to
provide financial assistance to Waste Workers in crisis situations, including but not
limited to, medical assistance, burial, transportation, education, food or financial
assistance for other support services or needs of a Waste Worker or family.

Sec 25. Cash Incentive. - In recognition of the contribution of Waste Workers to
public health and safety, environment, and local economy, LGUs shall include Waste
Workers in the grant of an annual cash incentive for all their personnel.

Sec 26. Socialized Housing Program. - The Local Government Unit shalll, in the
implementation and development of socialized housing program, ensure that Waste
Workers who are able to qualify under the guidelines shall be included as target

beneficiaries.


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CHAPTER IV
WASTE WORKER IN THE INFORMAL SECTOR

Sec. 27. Waste Workers in the Informal Sector. - Waste Workers in the informal
sector are hereby guaranteed all civil, political, social and economic rights recognized,
promoted and protected under existing laws, including, but not limited to, Article II
Section 9 of the 1987 Constitution,? the Republic Act No. 8425, otherwise known as the
Social Reform and Poverty Alleviation Act,* and Republic Act No. 7875, otherwise
known as the National Health Insurance Act. +

Sec 28. Formalization and Recognition of Waste Workers. - Waste Workers in the
informal sector shall have the right to form or join organizations or associations for
purposes not contrary to law, and to promote, defend, and protect their mutual
interests or extend mutual aid and cooperation.

Organizations or associations established by informal Waste Workers shall be
recognized and registered with the DOLE or other appropriate government agencies,
in accordance with existing laws, rules, and regulations. Such recognition shall serve
as a basis for accessing government support, representation, and participation in
decision-making processes affecting their work and welfare.

Sec 29. Social Protection and Inclusion. - The DOLE, in consultation with the
Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Health,
Commission on Human Rights, and the Local Government Units, shall develop
programs for the informal sector of Waste Workers and ensure their access to medical
assistance, burial, transportation, education, food, or financial assistance for other

support services or needs.

TITLE Il
PARTICIPATION OF GOVERNMENT AGENCIES

Sec 30. Role of DOLE and the Local Government Units. - The local government

units shall be charged with the implementation of this Act in their respective localities,


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in coordination with the Department of Labor and Employment. It shall be the
responsibility of the LGU to:

a) Ensure the proper enforcement of labor standards, occupational safety,
and health regulations, as well as other pertinent laws and policies
related to Waste Workers within their jurisdiction. The LGU shall also
assist waste workers in their registration with DOLE;

b) Establish local mechanisms to monitor and address issues related to
Waste Workers, including but not limited to, workplace safety, social
protection, and access to training and skills development programs;

c) Submit periodic reports to the DOLE on the status of Waste Workers

within their jurisdictions, outlining the measures taken to address issues
related to employment and working conditions;

d) Advocate for the inclusion of Waste Workers in social protection
programs, working with DOLE to explore avenues for health insurance,
retirement benefits, and other welfare initiatives.

e)

Implementation of barangay and municipality practices on Solid Waste

Management;

f) Drafting and Implementation of 10-year plans on Solid Waste
Management and Disposal;

g) Equip the Waste Workers directly dealing with waste personal
protective equipment, and other necessary resources to ensure
protection from hazards brought about by handling of waste;

h) Submit periodic reports to the DENR on the status of the
implementation of the Solid Waste Management and Disposal to
address issues and concerns related to waste management and disposal;

i) Ensure inclusion and active participation of Waste Workers groups or

associations in governing bodies or councils responsible for waste

management oversight.

The DOLE shall:

a) Establish guidelines and mechanisms for coordination in overseeing the
working conditions, rights, and benefits of Waste Workers;

b) Provide technical assistance to LGUs in the formulation and
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implementation of programs and initiatives aimed at improving the
welfare of Waste Workers;

¢)

Conduct capacity-building programs for local authorities, waste
management agencies, and other relevant stakeholders;

a) Enhance employment opportunities through trade policies and skill
building;

e) Establish guidelines and mechanisms for the application of the

occupational health and safety regulations as well as the regular
reporting of the working conditions of the Waste Workers;

f) Promulgate the basis for the adjustment of monetary allowances based
on the annual inflation;

g) Assist the LGUs in providing necessary training to the collectors and
personnel in accordance with the waste management plan of the LGUs.

Sec 31. Role of the DSWD. - The Department of Social Welfare and Development
shall be charged with the social protection of the Waste Workers through:

a) Adaptation of Social Insurance Policy which aims to mitigate income
risks by applying diversification, a risk management technique through
a shared fund. This includes programs for micro-insurance payment
that will help shield the Waste Workers from unforeseeable risk of
unemployment due to sickness, retrenchment, national security issues,
and national health issues;

b) Provision of resources and basic minimum requirements to the
marginalized sector to aid in the employment as Waste Workers. This

ind transfers as

shall include assistance programs through cash or in
well as alternative care and referral services;

°)

Provision of Social Safety Nets to respond to urgent issues like disasters,
calamities, economic shocks, pandemics and epidemics that will affect
the vulnerable part of the waste workforce. These measures include
emergency assistance, price subsidies, food programs, employment
programs in partnership with DOLE, retraining programs and
emergency loans, and health assistance;

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The DSWD, in partnership with the Barangay and Municipal Officials, shall
maintain national and regional profiles of beneficiaries of the programs to be shared
with the appropriate stakeholders to assess the applicability and the development of
comprehensive statistics for Waste Workers.
Sec 32. Role of DENR. - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources
shall be responsible to:
a) Ensure that the Solid Waste Management and Disposal plans of the
LGUs are properly implemented, as per Republic Act No. 9003;
b) Conduct capacity building with the Waste Workers, LGUs, waste
management agencies, and other relevant stakeholders on the
assessment of impact of Waste Workers to climate change.

°)

Conduct seminars and workshops on the proper waste management
and disposal to help minimize environmental effects specifically climate
change;

d) Provide technical assistance to LGUs in identifying and implementing
best practices on the conduct of work of Waste Workers that minimizes
environmental effects;

e)

Identify areas with high risk of adverse environmental effects of waste
and implement a mitigation plan through the aid of Waste Workers;

f) Provide economic incentives and assistance to local governments for
their waste reduction, sustainable waste management, and safe disposal

initiatives;

Provide economic incentives and assistance to local governments for
recycling i
Sec 33. Role of TESDA. - The Technical Education and Skills Development
Authority shall:

a) Adopta training program for the proper waste collection, recovery, and
safe handling and disposal of wastes as per Republic Act No. 9003 or the

Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.;
b) Certify and accredit technical and vocational education and training

8)

iatives;

programs for waste workers to ensure that they receive recognized

qualifications for their knowledge and skills, and to improve their
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1 employability and working conditions. For this purpose, TESDA shall

develop training curricula to meet the demands of various industries for

3 waste workers; and
4 ©) Collaborate with various stakeholders, including government agencies,
5 industry partners, and educational institutions to provide an effective
6 training and development of framework for waste workers.

7 Sec 34. Role of the Department of Health. - The Department of Health shall:
8 a) Provide for health programs, services, and facilities for waste workers
9 as may be needed, subject to availability of funds and administrative

10 rules and regulations - including, but not limited to:

a i Vaccinations;

12 Anti Tetanus shots;

3 Periodic health check-up;

4 Annual Physical Examinations;

15 Provision of Supplements and necessary medicines.

16 b) Coordinate or collaborate with, and assist local communities, agencies

7 and interested groups in the implementation of programs catered for

18 waste workers.

19 ©) Collect, analyze and disseminate statistical and other relevant

20 information on the waste worker's health situation, and to revise the

2 Department's programs based on the outcome of the statistics;

2 d) Propagate health information and educate the waste workers on health

2B hazards and environmental impacts to their health, geared to prevent

24 health related problems while performing their duties;

25 Sec 35. Role of the Public Attorney's Office. - The Public Attorney's Office (PAO)

26 _ shall have the following responsibilities:

27 a) Provide waste workers with free access to courts, judicial, and quasi-

28 judicial agencies by ensuring that they receive adequate legal

29 representation, counseling, and assistance;

30 b) Waste workers who encounter legal issues related to their employment,

31 working conditions, or rights violations shall have the right to seek

32 assistance from PAO, which shall endeavor to provide timely and

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¢)

d)

)

effective support;

Offer counseling and assistance to waste workers through personalized
legal support and guidance, and empower waste workers to assert their
rights and seek redress for any injustices or grievances they may face in
the course of their work;

Conduct awareness campaigns and outreach programs targeted at
waste workers, ensuring that they are informed about their legal
entitlements and the services available to them through PAO; and
Collaborate with relevant stakeholders, including government agencies,
non-governmental organizations, and legal advocacy groups, to address
systemic issues affecting waste workers and advocate for policy reforms
that uphold their rights and welfare; and

Provide waste workers with legal assistance and representation during
mediation and arbitration proceedings aimed at resolving labor

disputes.

TITLE IV
FINAL PROVISIONS

Sec 36. Implementing Rules and Regulations. - The Secretary of the Environment
and Natural Resources, after consultation with the participating Government agencies
as specified in Title III of this Act, as well as professional, environmental and natural
resources workers’ organizations or unions, shall formulate and prepare the necessary
rules and regulations to implement the provisions of this Act. Rules and regulations
issued pursuant to this Section shall take effect thirty (30) days after publication in a
newspaper of general circulation.

Sec 37. Special Treatment for Benefits of Waste Workers. - All benefits received by
a Waste Worker under this law, including but not limited to, benefits given to rank-
and-file employees, whether granted under a collective bargaining agreement or not,
fringe benefits, and de minimis benefits, are not taxable pursuant to Section 33 (C)(3)
of the Republic Act 8424 (Tax Reform Act of 1997).

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Sec 38. Waste Workers Appreciation Day. - It is hereby declared that the last
Sunday of January of every year as Waste Workers Appreciation Day in recognition
of the invaluable contributions made by our waste workers to keep our communities
clean and safe.

Sec 39. Appropriations. - The initial funding requirements for the
implementation of this Act shall be charged against the current appropriations of the
agencies concerned. Thereafter, such sums as may be necessary for the
implementation of this Act shall be included in the agencies’ yearly budgets under the
General Appropriations Act.

Sec 40. Separability Clause. - If any provision of this Act is declared invalid, the
remainder of this Act or any provisions not affected thereby shall remain in force and
in effect.

Sec 41. Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree or issuance, executive
order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule, or regulation contrary to, or
inconsistent with, the provisions of this Act is hereby repealed, modified, or amended
accordingly.

Sec 42. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation

Approved,

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