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Eddie Garcia Almost five years after actor and director Eddie Garcia died in a TV production accident, a law named in his memory is now in place to ensure the welfare of workers in the film and television industry. Signed on May 24 by President Marcos, Republic Act No. 11996 or the “Eddie Garcia Law” requires employers to look after their workers’ safety and well-being, starting with terms related to work hours, worksite conditions, wages, benefits and insurance coverage spelled out in contracts.

One of the major provisions sets a standard daily eight-hour work schedule that is extendable to a maximum of 14 hours, inclusive of meal periods, or a maximum of 60 hours per week. The law also requires a regular review of the working conditions in the industry “to ensure that workers are provided opportunities for gainful employment or work engagements and decent income, and are protected from abuse, harassment, hazardous working conditions and economic exploitation.” Employers are also required to strictly comply with the provisions of RA 11036 or the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Act.



They should designate a safety officer who will conduct risk assessments of the workplace or shooting location to identify, eliminate or control any potential environmental or structural hazard. Employers should also ensure that workers are made aware of potential hazards, and hold a meeting with them before the start of a shoot to identify safety and health issues. They should .

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