Sen. JV Ejercito extols 'kasambahays'

RE-ELECTIONIST Senator JV Ejercito underscored the invaluable services and loyalty of domestic helpers to every family they serve as he encouraged the latter to treat the "Kasambahays," or household helpers, humanely as if they are truly part of the family.

In addressing the attendees and the awardees during the "Kasambahay, Kasambuhay Pilipinas 2018 Awards" held at the Araneta Coliseum, recently, Senator JV Ejercito expressed sincere gratitude to all the household helpers who are thoughtfully serving their client families.

"Ang mga kasambahay ang nagpapadali ng ating pang araw-araw na buhay... sila ay parte na ng ating mga pamilya," Ejercito said.

"Karangalan ko na maging bahagi ng okasyong ito kung saan bibigyang pugay natin ang ating mga minamahal na kasambahay," Ejercito added.

Ejercito, considered as "Mr. Healthcare ng Senado" is the principal author of Republic Act No. 10361 or the "Batas Kasambahay" which seeks not only to assure the financial benefits of all household helpers but also shields them from any kind of abuse.

The law not only protects the kasambahays but the employers as well because they will be assured that the helpers will abide by the regulations stipulated in their employment contract.

Ejercito was the guest speaker during the awards night where at least ten outstanding Kasambahays were recognized and given financial award and plaque of recognition.

The award-giving body was made possible through the concerted efforts of the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Senate Philippines Inc., and Palawan Pawnshop led by its president and CEO Bobby Castro.

"The awards program will attempt to draw inspirational life lessons from the simple lives and accomplishments of our loyal household workers," Castro explained.

Ten exemplary household workers were honored -- one each from Central and Northern Luzon, National Capital Region, Southern Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao and five others selected on the strength of their life stories.

The awards are open to Filipino "yayas,'' ''lavanderas,'' servants, cooks, family drivers, gardeners and other household workers who have faithfully served their employer for a minimum of seven consecutive years.

Winners are chosen based on life stories that express such Filipino values as selflessness, loyalty and love for others.