How Many Days of Bereavement Leave are Employees Entitled To
The Importance of Bereavement Leave for Employees
Losing a loved one is a difficult and emotional experience, and employees need time to grieve, attend funerals, and handle family matters. However, many workers in the Philippines are unsure about bereavement leave policies—how many days they can take, whether it's paid, and what the law requires from employers.
Bereavement Leave: How Many Days are Employees Entitled To?
A common question is "how many days of bereavement leave are allowed?" The answer depends on company policies rather than government mandates.
As of now, bereavement leave is not legally required under the Labor Code of the Philippines, meaning employers are not obligated to provide it unless stated in their internal policies, collective bargaining agreements (CBAs), or company handbooks.
However, many businesses choose to offer bereavement leave as part of their employee benefits package. Common industry practices include:
- 3 to 5 days of paid bereavement leave for immediate family members (parents, siblings, spouse, children).
- 1 to 2 days for extended family members (grandparents, in-laws).
- Some companies allow additional unpaid leave if needed.
Bereavement Leave and DOLE Guidelines
While bereavement leave DOLE regulations do not mandate a specific number of leave days, some companies voluntarily follow DOLE’s guidance on employee welfare. Employers are encouraged to:
- offer paid bereavement leave as part of their workplace benefits.
- clearly define policies in employment contracts and handbooks.
- allow flexibility for employees who need extended leave due to family obligations.
Employers who provide bereavement leave immediate family benefits help create a compassionate work environment, which leads to higher employee morale and retention.
What Employees Should Do When Requesting Bereavement Leave
If your company offers bereavement leave, the proper process should be followed to ensure approval:
- Notify HR or management immediately and submit a formal leave request.
- Provide necessary documentation, such as a death certificate or funeral announcement.
- Communicate any extended leave needs, especially if additional days are required beyond the company’s policy.
Why Businesses Should Offer Bereavement Leave
Even though bereavement leave is not required by law, companies that implement it see benefits such as:
- better employee well-being and loyalty.
- improved company reputation as a supportive employer.
- reduced burnout and absenteeism, since employees can properly grieve before returning to work.
Providing bereavement leave isn’t just a humanitarian decision but a business decision that promotes a positive workplace culture.
Payday: Simplifying Leave Management for Businesses
Payday helps businesses manage bereavement leave policies, payroll compliance, and employee benefits tracking, ensuring seamless operations for both employers and employees.
Make leave management easier and more efficient. Visit Payday today.
