House bill filed to establish national framework for interns rights and welfare

House Bill No. 5081, also known as the 'Interns' Rights and Welfare Act,' has been filed to establish a national framework for student interns' rights and welfare.

Authored by Akbayan lawmakers, including Reps. Chel Diokno, Perci Cendaña, Dadah Kiram Ismula, and Dinagat Islands Rep. Arlene Bag-ao, the bill aims to protect interns from exploitative practices, abuse, and unsafe working conditions.

The proposed legislation mandates that interns receive a stipend equivalent to 75 percent of Salary Grade 1, Step 1 if in government agencies, or 75 percent of the minimum wage if in the private sector.

It also requires a memorandum of agreement and a detailed internship plan between educational institutions and employers to ensure learning objectives are met.

The bill's proponents highlighted that despite existing guidelines, reports of intern abuse, including menial tasks unrelated to their studies, unsafe workplaces, lack of mentorship, and excessive hours without just compensation, persist.