Men’s Exclusive: Pogi Points Playbook – Pregnancy Support and Paternity Leave Like a Pro

Fatherhood is a game-changer, bro. Your newborn and your wife need you in the first crucial days—time to step up and rack up those pogi points!

Filipino dads thus often invoke Section 6 of Republic Act 11210 (Expanded Maternity Leave Law), which allows mothers the transfer of leave credits of up to seven (7) days of their maternity leave to the father. 

However, did you know that fathers also have their own seven calendar days of paid paternity leave?

In the Philippines, paid paternity leave is a legal right, but many fathers are unaware of their full benefits. 

This guide will help dads understand their entitlements and plan ahead to make the most of their leave.

 

Legal Rights and Benefits of Paternity Leave

Good news! You actually get a paternity leave to be the MVP at home—because your wife and baby need you more than your boss does right now.

This entitlement is protected by law, with specific provisions outlined in Republic Act 8187, also known as the Paternity Leave Act of 1996.

 

Overview of Republic Act No. 8187 (Paternity Leave Act of 1996)

The Paternity Leave Act of 1996 is one of the labor law benefits that grants married fathers seven (7) days of paid leave to support their wife and newborn.

It applies to those working in the private and public sectors, as long as they have been employed for at least a year and live with their wife. You should also be legally married.

The leave can be used for childbirth or miscarriage and must be taken soon after delivery.

Additionally, paternity leave can only be used for the first four children. 

Also, unlike maternity benefits, paternity leave is an employer-paid leave. This means that your employer, not SSS, is responsible for covering your salary during this period.

 

Steps to Apply for Paternity Leave

Paternity leave isn’t a free pass—you gotta do the paperwork and give your boss a heads-up.

 

Required Documents and Application Process

To qualify, fathers must follow these paternity leave guidelines, which include the following conditions:

• The father must be legally married to the child’s mother.
• The leave applies only if the mother has given birth or had a miscarriage.
• A father can avail of paternity leave for up to four children.
• Paternity leave must be taken within 60 days of the child’s birth.
• The employer must be informed in writing at least one month before the leave starts, unless early notice is not possible due to special circumstances.

 

To apply for paternity leave, fathers must submit the following:

• Marriage Certificate – Proof of legal marriage.
• Wife’s Medical Certificate or Ultrasound Report – To confirm pregnancy before birth.
• Child’s Birth Certificate – Required after delivery.

 

Application Process:

• Notify Your Employer Early – Inform them of your wife’s pregnancy and expected delivery date.
• Submit Required Documents – Provide the necessary paperwork before and after birth.
• Get Approval – Follow up with HR to ensure your leave is recorded.
• Take Your Leave – Use it within a reasonable time after childbirth or miscarriage.

 

Maximizing Paternity Leave: Tips for New Dads

Taking your paternity leave gives you the chance to bond with your newborn and support your wife. With the right planning, you can make the most of this time: 

 

How to Plan Financially for Paternity Leave

Taking time off work means adjusting your budget to ensure financial stability. Here are some steps to help you prepare:

• Save in advance – Set aside extra funds to cover expenses during your leave.
• Check employer policies – Confirm if your company offers additional benefits beyond the mandated paternity leave, such as mandatory allowances, full pay, or coverage of your basic salary during your leave.
• Budget for baby expenses – Plan for medical bills, baby essentials, and other costs.
• Explore home-based career opportunities – Look into remote work placements or flexible job postings that allow you to earn while staying home.
• Use your leave wisely – Maximize your time off to reduce the need for taking unpaid leaves later.

 

Balancing Work, Personal Responsibilities, and Childcare

Managing work, family, and childcare can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can develop a smooth routine that works for you: 

• Set clear priorities – Identify the most important tasks at work and home.
• Communicate with your employer – Discuss flexible work arrangements or remote work options if needed.
• Share responsibilities – Coordinate with your wife to divide household and childcare duties.
• Create a daily routine – Plan a schedule that balances work, rest, and family time.
• Use support systems – Seek help from family, friends, or professional childcare services when necessary.

 

Exploring Additional Leave Options

Fathers in the Philippines have other leave options to spend more time with their newborn and support their wife, and to make the most out of their time off: 

 

Solo Parent Leave for Fathers

If you can’t use paternity leave because you are a solo parent, you may still be eligible for additional leave under the Solo Parents’ Welfare Act (Republic Act No. 8972). 

This law grants seven (7) days of paid leave per year to solo parents who have been employed for at least a year.

To qualify, you must be legally recognized as a solo parent and secure a Solo Parent ID from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). 

This leave allows you to care for your child while managing work responsibilities.

 

SSS Benefits and Shared Parental Leave Possibilities

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) ensures that companies follow Republic Act 11210 (Expanded Maternity Leave Law), which allows mothers to transfer up to seven (7) days of their maternity leave to the father. 

While SSS does not provide paternity benefits, this shared leave option gives fathers more time to support their wife and newborn.

 

Flexible Work Arrangements and Extended Leave Options

If paternity leave isn’t enough, dads can explore remote work, flexible hours, or unpaid leave to spend more time with their family. 

Some employers, depending on their parental leave policies, may also allow the use of vacation or sick leave.

Talking to your employer can help you find the best option.

 

Challenges Fathers Face and How to Overcome Them

Managing your time, work, and finances during paternity leave can feel overwhelming. 

With only a few days off, the pressure to juggle family responsibilities while meeting work expectations can be stressful. 

Financial concerns, social stigma, and the fear of falling behind at work add to the challenge.

Here are some common struggles dads face—and ways to overcome them.

 

Social Stigma Around Men Taking Paternity Leave

Taking Leave? Ignore the Haters and Be the Dad Your Kid Needs.

Despite the benefits of paternity leave, some fathers face stigma for taking time off. 

Traditional views often expect men to prioritize work over family, making some hesitant to use their leave. 

Here’s how you can overcome these perceptions:

• Shift Your Mindset – Remind yourself that being an involved father is just as valuable as excelling at work. Your presence during this time strengthens your bond with your child and supports your wife emotionally and physically.

 

• Put Family First – Despite social expectations, recognize that these early moments with your child and wife are irreplaceable, and prioritizing them is a responsible and meaningful choice you’ll never regret.

 

• Regulate Your Emotions – Acknowledge any guilt, anxiety, or pressure you feel about taking leave. Instead of suppressing these emotions, remind yourself that prioritizing family does not make you less committed to your career.

 

• Stay Confident in Your Choice – If faced with judgment, remind yourself that being there for your family is a sign of strength, not weakness. Your role as a father is just as important as (if not more than) your role at work.

 

Workplace Culture and Resistance from Employers (Legal protections for fathers taking leave)

Even though paternity leave is a legal right, some fathers may face pushback from employers or a workplace that doesn’t fully support it.

Some companies worry about productivity, while others may not be aware of legal protections for fathers.

Here’s how to secure your leave:

• Know Your Rights – Learn about Republic Act No. 8187 and DOLE regulations to confidently claim your paternity leave.

 

• Talk to Your Employer – Discuss your leave plans professionally and assure them of a smooth transition.

 

• Plan Your Workload – Prepare in advance to minimize disruption while you’re away.

 

• Keep Records – Save copies of leave requests, approvals, and HR discussions for protection

 

• Seek DOLE Assistance – If your employer refuses to grant paternity leave, you can file a complaint with DOLE to ensure your rights are upheld.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Have some questions? Here are answers to common questions to help you navigate this process smoothly.

 

Can I take paternity leave if I work for a small business?

Yes, as long as you meet the eligibility requirements.

Paternity leave applies to all qualified employees in the private and public sectors, including those working for small businesses. 

However, it’s best to check with your employer, as smaller companies may have different leave policies.

 

Can paternity leave be extended beyond the allowed period?

Paternity leave itself cannot be extended beyond the seven-day allowance

However, fathers may explore other options, such as using vacation or sick leave, requesting unpaid leave, or discussing flexible work arrangements with their employer. 

Some may also qualify for additional leave under the Expanded Maternity Leave Law if the mother transfers up to seven days of her maternity leave.

 

Are freelance and gig workers entitled to paternity leave benefits?

Freelance and gig workers are not covered under the Paternity Leave Act since it applies only to employees in the private and public sectors. 

However, they can negotiate leave arrangements with clients or explore flexible work schedules to balance work and family responsibilities.

 

Conclusion: Supporting Fathers, Strengthening Families

Paternity leave ain’t just a break—it’s your chance to be the ultimate family MVP to bond with your newborn, support your wife, and be actively involved in their family’s early moments. 

While challenges may take place, knowing your rights, planning ahead, and advocating for better policies can make a difference. 

However, if you need more flexibility, Remote Staff offers work-from-home hiring solutions, making it easier for dads to balance work and family life. 

Fathers can also explore digital workforce hiring opportunities in the Remote Staff platform that fit their skills and schedules.

Score major pogi points while providing for your family!

Explore home-based career opportunities that fit your schedule—sign up today and take the next step toward a flexible and family-friendly career!