DoLE issues 13th-month pay rules

The Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) reminded private-sector employers Tuesday to release the mandatory 13th-month pay of their workers on or before 24 December 2026.

Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino issued the reminder under Labor Advisory No. 21, Series of 2026, signed 6 November, which outlines the official guidelines for the year-end benefit.

“The 13th month pay shall be paid to rank-and-file employees in the private sector, regardless of their position, designation, or employment status, and irrespective of the method by which their wages are paid, provided that they have worked for at least one month during the calendar year,” Tolentino said in the advisory.

DoLE stressed that no exemptions or deferments will be granted to employers regarding the payout. The benefit is granted without prejudice to any additional benefits provided under company policy, employment contracts or collective bargaining agreements.

Covered workers include piece-rate employees, those paid a fixed wage plus commission, individuals with multiple employers, employees on maternity leave who received salary differentials, and workers who resigned or were terminated during the year.

Meantime, resigned or terminated employees are entitled to a prorated amount corresponding to the time worked during the calendar year.