BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya (PIA) - - The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Nueva Vizcaya has approved a measure to address the discomfort of women workers in the provincial government during their menstrual period and provide  further privilege for them.

Board Member Patricio Dumlao,Jr., author of the “Nueva Vizcaya Women Empower Ordinance “ said the measure will allow PLGU women employees to attend to the hormonal and physiological difficulties they endure on a monthly basis.

The ordinance covers female employees including casual, contract of service and job order workers in the provincial local government of Nueva Vizcaya.

“Menstrual symptoms are not something that can be ignored – for some women, the pain can be debilitating and the ability to focus on work can vanish," he said.

Dumlao said through the ordinance, the first of its kind  in the country, women’s health, wellness and protection are recognized, thereby raising awareness to prevent  stigmatization  and ensure that individuals received ample support for inclusive and gender equal Nueva Vizcaya.

He said the ordinance also seeks to create an inclusive workplace where menstruation is not a barrier but a consideration.

Dumlao said the concept of menstrual privilege is not new as Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Indonesia and Zambia have recognized menstrual privilege for female employees.

“While some companies have allowed the use of its sick leave benefits for menstrual cases, the Philippines has yet to act on this particular concern. Some considers this issue a social taboo in our country and in our province,” he said.

Venus Cadabona, provincial disability affairs officer, praised the enactment of the ordinance, saying the measure will be a big relief for women workers in the provincial government.

“This ordinance will alleviate the plight of women especially during their  menstrual period. We are grateful for the passage of this ordinance. Our salute to our law makers,” she said. (OTB/BME/PIA NVizcaya)