House Assistant Minority Leader and Akbayan Party-list Rep. Chel Diokno filed House Bill No. 9891, or the proposed Paternity and Parental Leave Act (PAPA Leave Act), which would increase paid paternity leave from the current seven days to 90 continuous days following live childbirth and grant an additional 15 days of paid parental leave that may be used within one year from childbirth.

The measure also provides 60 continuous days of paid leave in cases of miscarriage or emergency termination of pregnancy.

“Childcare is not solely the responsibility of women, but a shared parental duty that must be actively supported by the State,” Diokno said.

The bill would expand eligibility beyond married fathers to include non-marital fathers and alternative caregivers who play a significant role in caring for newborns and young children. 

It would also cover workers in the informal economy and voluntary members of the Social Security System (SSS), subject to applicable contribution requirements.

The proposal also contains provisions aimed at preventing the misuse of leave benefits. Fathers who avail themselves of paternity or parental leave but fail to provide care and support during the leave period may be held liable under Section 5(i) of Republic Act No. 9262, or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004.

Under the measure, employers in the private sector would continue advancing paternity leave benefits, which would be fully reimbursed by the SSS.

The bill likewise prohibits employers from dismissing, demoting, or discriminating against employees who avail themselves of leave benefits.

Violators may face penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and the revocation of business permits.

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