House files bill to protect student interns from exploitation

House Bill No. 5081, the 'Interns' Rights and Welfare Act,' has been filed to establish a national framework protecting student interns from exploitative practices, abuse, and unsafe working conditions.

Authored by Akbayan lawmakers Reps. Chel Diokno, Perci Cendaña, Dadah Kiram Ismula, and Dinagat Islands Rep. Arlene Bag-ao, the bill mandates a stipend equivalent to 75 percent of Salary Grade 1, Step 1 for government interns or 75 percent of the minimum wage for private sector interns.

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

Proponents highlighted that despite existing guidelines, reports of intern abuse, including menial tasks, unsafe workplaces, lack of mentorship, and excessive hours without just compensation, persist.

A similar bill has been filed in the Senate by Senator Risa Hontiveros, increasing the chances of its passage.