A bill is currently being pushed in the House of Representatives that aims to provide stronger legal protection, fair compensation, and benefits such as hazard pay and night shift differential for an estimated 1.5 million Filipino freelancers nationwide.
Under House Bill No. 17, also known as the *Freelance Workers Protection Act*, filed by Speaker Martin Romualdez, the measure seeks to address long-standing issues faced by freelancers who are often underpaid, experience delayed payments, or are not paid at all due to the absence of clear agreements with their clients.
According to Romualdez, it is time to give greater recognition to the vital role of the freelancing sector in the economy while ensuring that workers in this field receive adequate protection. He noted that many freelancers continue to work without clear legal safeguards, making them more vulnerable to exploitation and non-payment for their services.
“It is high time we put teeth into the law to protect our freelancers. They are not just alternative workers; they are one of the primary pillars of our modern economy, and they deserve sufficient legal protection and fair compensation,” Romualdez said.
One of the key provisions of HB 17 is the requirement of a written contract before any freelance engagement begins. This aims to clearly define the scope of work, agreed compensation, payment schedule, and other obligations of both the freelancer and the client, helping prevent misunderstandings.
The bill also mandates clients to provide at least a 30% down payment of the total contract value as an initial guarantee of their commitment to the agreed project.
In addition, the measure recognizes the need to fairly compensate freelancers working under special conditions. This includes night shift differential for those regularly working graveyard hours and hazard pay for jobs that pose risks to their safety and health.
To ensure compliance, HB 17 also sets corresponding penalties and fines for clients or employers who fail to meet their obligations under the proposed law.
With the growing number of Filipinos entering the freelancing industry, the bill is expected to establish clearer standards between freelancers and their clients while strengthening protections for one of the country’s fastest-growing sectors.
