10/02/2025
JOINT STATEMENT ON WORKING HOURS, ARTISTIC FREEDOM, AND WORKERS’ RIGHTS IN THE FILM & TV INDUSTRY
We, the undersigned, call for the strict enforcement of decent working hours in the film and television industry—ensuring that the creative process of artists is not compromised and that the health and well-being of every worker on set is protected.
Long hours, unsafe conditions, and exploitative labor practices have long plagued our industry, putting both physical and mental health at risk in the name of productivity. This must stop. We demand the criminalization of occupational safety and health (OSH) violations to hold accountable those who endanger workers’ lives through negligence and abuse. No production, no project, and no profit should come at the cost of human dignity and safety.
The passage of Republic Act No. 11996, also known as the Eddie Garcia Act, is a crucial step in ensuring the protection of film and TV workers. This law mandates that the hours of work shall be eight (8 ) hours a day, which can be extended to a maximum of fourteen (14) hours, exclusive of meal periods. In no case shall the total number of work hours be more than sixty (60) hours in a week. It also requires employers to provide safe working conditions and comply with OSH standards. While imperfect, this landmark law is a step forward in regulating the Film and TV industries. Even when the law allows 14 hours, way longer than what health experts deem healthy, implementation remains a challenge. We call on industry stakeholders and authorities to uphold and enforce this law to prevent further tragedies and ensure that no worker is subjected to inhumane conditions.
We firmly oppose blacklisting as a tool to silence those speaking out against unfair conditions. Just as we uphold freedom of expression and artistic freedom, we must also protect workers’ freedom of expression to voice grievances without fear of retaliation. The OSH Law guarantees that workers can report accidents and hazards without facing retribution. Safety, fair treatment, and free expression must be industry norms, not exceptions.
We urge all film and TV workers to unionize and organize in solidarity to demand livable wages, humane working conditions, and industry-wide protections. Only through collective action can we put an end to exploitative labor practices and ensure that every worker—whether on-screen or behind the scenes—is treated with respect.
Decent and regular work, safe conditions, and creative freedom must go hand in hand.
Eyes on Set Network
Tambisan sa Sining
Sining Kadamay
Kinoise PH
UP Cinema Arts Society
UP Cineastes' Studio
UP Cinema
Tag-ani Performing Arts Society
Surian ng Sining
SINEGANG.ph
Institute for Occupational Health and Safety Development
Mayday Multimedia
