OPINION
Ed Javier
Ferdinand Marcos Sr. And The Legacy Of The 13th Month Pay
Photo credit: Britannica
As Christmas approaches, Filipino workers eagerly await their 13th-month pay—a cherished benefit that lightens financial burdens and allows families to celebrate the holidays with dignity.
This year, amid discussions on the national budget and the challenges of sustaining programs such as the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) and the ayuda under the Assistance to Poor Communities (ACAP), it is timely to revisit the origins of the 13th-month pay and its enduring impact on Filipino families.
The 13th-month pay was institutionalized by Presidential Decree No. 851, signed on December 16, 1975, by then-President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. At a time when inflation was eroding real wages, the decree aimed to provide immediate financial relief to workers and their families, particularly during the Christmas season.
By mandating employers to pay their rank-and-file employees a bonus equivalent to one-twelfth of their annual basic salary, Marcos Sr. established a policy that has become a cornerstone of workers’ rights in the Philippines.
This decree addressed the economic challenges of the time and reflected a forward-thinking approach to protecting laborers. Rather than temporary assistance or politically motivated handouts, the 13th-month pay offered a sustainable and predictable mechanism to augment workers’ income.
It became a meaningful way to recognize the contributions of employees to the economy while ensuring they had the means to participate in the festive traditions that define the Filipino Christmas spirit.
In today’s context, as billions are allocated to social assistance programs such as TUPAD, ACAP and AICS, it is worth reflecting on the difference between institutionalized benefits like the 13th-month pay and stopgap measures like cash dole-outs.
While the latter can address immediate needs, they are often politicized and lack the long-term sustainability required to create meaningful impact. Programs tied to political motivations risk becoming tools for patronage, leaving ordinary Filipinos dependent on the whims of those in power.
As we honor the legacy of Ferdinand Marcos Sr., it is also fitting to recognize how his son, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., is positioned to continue this vision of meaningful and sustainable governance.
His administration has already demonstrated an ability to address systemic challenges, particularly in agriculture, energy, and social welfare.
With the same spirit of innovation and foresight, President Marcos Jr. has the opportunity to solidify his legacy by institutionalizing programs that empower Filipinos and address economic disparities—not just in times of crisis but as a matter of long-term policy.
On the other hand, policies like the 13th-month pay transcend political administrations, ensuring that workers receive benefits without relying on short-term political agendas.
The challenge lies in replicating this model for other forms of assistance—turning ad hoc programs into lasting solutions that empower Filipinos rather than perpetuate dependency.
The national budget’s strain, with limited funds to cover critical programs, highlights the importance of prudent spending and the prioritization of measures that promote self-reliance.
While ayuda programs provide relief, they should be complemented by mechanisms that encourage economic productivity and independence, much like the 13th-month pay has done for decades.
It is also a reminder for companies to comply with labor laws, ensuring that their workers receive the benefits mandated by law.
As we give credit to former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. for this enduring legacy, we are reminded of how visionary policies can create lasting change. The 13th-month pay is not just a monetary bonus; it is a symbol of respect for the Filipino workforce and a reflection of the government’s commitment to social justice.
This Christmas season, let us honor the spirit of the 13th-month pay by advocating for policies that uplift Filipino workers and their families.
Let us encourage leaders to institutionalize long-term benefits instead of relying on politically driven programs that offer fleeting relief. By doing so, we can create a more equitable society where every Filipino has the means to celebrate the holidays with dignity, hope, and joy.
But beyond the 13th-month pay and material blessings, let us, as Filipinos, pause to remember the true essence of the season.
Christmas is a time to rekindle our faith, to cherish the love and joy that bind our families, to foster unity in our communities, and to deepen our love for our country.
These are the priceless gifts that bring warmth to our hearts and meaning to our celebrations. In the end, it is not what we have, but who we share it with, that makes Christmas truly special.
Let this season remind us to give, forgive, and hold on to the hope that unites us all.
This year, amid discussions on the national budget and the challenges of sustaining programs such as the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) and the ayuda under the Assistance to Poor Communities (ACAP), it is timely to revisit the origins of the 13th-month pay and its enduring impact on Filipino families.
The 13th-month pay was institutionalized by Presidential Decree No. 851, signed on December 16, 1975, by then-President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. At a time when inflation was eroding real wages, the decree aimed to provide immediate financial relief to workers and their families, particularly during the Christmas season.
By mandating employers to pay their rank-and-file employees a bonus equivalent to one-twelfth of their annual basic salary, Marcos Sr. established a policy that has become a cornerstone of workers’ rights in the Philippines.
This decree addressed the economic challenges of the time and reflected a forward-thinking approach to protecting laborers. Rather than temporary assistance or politically motivated handouts, the 13th-month pay offered a sustainable and predictable mechanism to augment workers’ income.
It became a meaningful way to recognize the contributions of employees to the economy while ensuring they had the means to participate in the festive traditions that define the Filipino Christmas spirit.
In today’s context, as billions are allocated to social assistance programs such as TUPAD, ACAP and AICS, it is worth reflecting on the difference between institutionalized benefits like the 13th-month pay and stopgap measures like cash dole-outs.
While the latter can address immediate needs, they are often politicized and lack the long-term sustainability required to create meaningful impact. Programs tied to political motivations risk becoming tools for patronage, leaving ordinary Filipinos dependent on the whims of those in power.
As we honor the legacy of Ferdinand Marcos Sr., it is also fitting to recognize how his son, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., is positioned to continue this vision of meaningful and sustainable governance.
His administration has already demonstrated an ability to address systemic challenges, particularly in agriculture, energy, and social welfare.
With the same spirit of innovation and foresight, President Marcos Jr. has the opportunity to solidify his legacy by institutionalizing programs that empower Filipinos and address economic disparities—not just in times of crisis but as a matter of long-term policy.
On the other hand, policies like the 13th-month pay transcend political administrations, ensuring that workers receive benefits without relying on short-term political agendas.
The challenge lies in replicating this model for other forms of assistance—turning ad hoc programs into lasting solutions that empower Filipinos rather than perpetuate dependency.
The national budget’s strain, with limited funds to cover critical programs, highlights the importance of prudent spending and the prioritization of measures that promote self-reliance.
While ayuda programs provide relief, they should be complemented by mechanisms that encourage economic productivity and independence, much like the 13th-month pay has done for decades.
It is also a reminder for companies to comply with labor laws, ensuring that their workers receive the benefits mandated by law.
As we give credit to former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. for this enduring legacy, we are reminded of how visionary policies can create lasting change. The 13th-month pay is not just a monetary bonus; it is a symbol of respect for the Filipino workforce and a reflection of the government’s commitment to social justice.
This Christmas season, let us honor the spirit of the 13th-month pay by advocating for policies that uplift Filipino workers and their families.
Let us encourage leaders to institutionalize long-term benefits instead of relying on politically driven programs that offer fleeting relief. By doing so, we can create a more equitable society where every Filipino has the means to celebrate the holidays with dignity, hope, and joy.
But beyond the 13th-month pay and material blessings, let us, as Filipinos, pause to remember the true essence of the season.
Christmas is a time to rekindle our faith, to cherish the love and joy that bind our families, to foster unity in our communities, and to deepen our love for our country.
These are the priceless gifts that bring warmth to our hearts and meaning to our celebrations. In the end, it is not what we have, but who we share it with, that makes Christmas truly special.
Let this season remind us to give, forgive, and hold on to the hope that unites us all.
Dec 9, 2024
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