MANILA - The implementing rules and regulations for a law granting additional leave benefits for working mothers was signed on Labor Day, said the measure's proponent.

Under the measure, all working mothers in the government and private sector are guaranteed with 105 days of paid maternity leave credits, with 7 days transferable to fathers. An additional 15 days of paid leave will be granted to single mothers.

Employed women were previously entitled to 60 days of paid leave for normal delivery and 78 days for cesarean delivery.

The new law also gives mothers the option to extend their leave for another 30 days without pay, provided that the employer is given due notice in writing at least 45 days ahead before the end of the maternity leave.

The law also applies to every instance of pregnancy, removing the 4-pregnancy cap. It shall be applied to all female workers regardless of civil status.

For cases of miscarriage or emergency termination of pregnancy, a 60-day paid maternity leave shall be granted to a female worker.

Sen. Risa Hontiveros, the law's principal author and sponsor in the Senate, said she was happy that the IRR was "signed and released today."

"I welcome this development as this ensures the full implementation of the law and that all women will benefit from the measure," she said in a statement.

She also thanked the labor department, Social Security System (SSS), Civil Service Commission (CSC), and various legislative offices and labor groups for "tirelessly" working on the IRR.

Women can also ask for a 30-day unpaid extension of their maternity leave, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III earlier said.

BELOW IS THE FULL COPY OF THE LAW:

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