The city government of Zamboanga is reminding all the barangay chairpersons or “Punong Barangay” on the establishment of a “Kasambahay” desk in their respective barangay hall as mandated by a city ordinance and RA 10361, otherwise known as the “Domestic Workers Act” or “Batas Kasambahay.”

City Secretary Atty. Kenneth Beldua told the virtual presser Monday that the City Council passed the Kasambahay Ordinance No. 568 in 2021, which was subsequently approved by the mayor, “instituting the policy for the protection and welfare of domestic workers within the territorial jurisdiction of Zamboanga City.”

Speaking on behalf of the mayor, Atty. Beldua said some barangays have already set up their own “Kasambahay” desks, adding that for those who do not have it yet must now comply with it.

He also said the DOLE, TESDA and other agencies concerned are also obliged by law facilitate access of Kasambahay to efficient training, assessment and related activities.

Under Rule 9 (Sec. 1) of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of RA 10361, “Every employer shall register a Kasambahay under his/her employment in the barangay where his/her residence is located.

The Punong Barangay shall be responsible for the Registry of Kasambahay within his/her jurisdiction.

Section 3. Continuous Registration. – The Punong Barangay shall designate a Registration/Kasambahay Desk in the Barangay Hall to accommodate continuous registration by the employers.

Section 4. Kasambahay Masterlist. – The Punong Barangay shall maintain and update the Kasambahay Masterlist in the barangay.

The barangays through the Kasambahay Desks shall submit reports to the local government units (LGUs), through the PESOs on data regarding registration of the Kasambahay.-(Vic Larato)