Eddie Garcia Law: Protecting Film Industry Workers

The late actress Sue Prado called for the law’s full implementation in an interview with radar.

In one of her final interviews at radar headquarters, the late actress Sue Prado called for the implementation of the Eddie Garcia Law—named after the veteran actor who died in 2019 after an on-set accident.

The law protects everyone working in the movie and television industry, as well as commercials and online content. Here’s what you need to know:

All workers—actors, utility services, producers, background talents, directors, drivers, and more—are covered across every stage of production.
Before any shoot, producers must file details with the Department of Labor and Employment at least 24 hours in advance, within 10 days. No filing means no shoot.
Every worker must sign a contract, which clearly states the role, pay, schedule, benefits, and grievance process. A contract must also have clear terms about lock-in tapings and compensation agreements for rest and travel days.
Working hours are capped at 14 hours per day (excluding meals), with a 10-hour turnaround between workdays. Waiting on set, makeup, rehearsals, filming, and out-of-town travel all count as work. Overtime beyond 14 hours—even with the promise of pay—is not allowed.
Pay cannot be below the regional minimum wage—no ifs, ands, or buts.
Safety is non-negotiable. All sets must have safety officers, emergency vehicles, proper meals, water, clean toilets, separate dressing rooms, and holding areas, as well as accommodation for out-of-town work.
Workers must receive their schedule (call sheets) at least 24 hours ahead. Late cancellations, or those within eight hours, require compensation. For out-of-town work, transportation or reimbursement must be provided.
Violations can be reported through supervisors, the Film Academy of the Philippines (reklamo@filmacademy.gov.ph or grievances.filmacademy.gov.ph), and DOLE (hotline 1349).

Inspired by the late Sue Prado’s advocacy, this guide breaks down the essential rights that every production worker needs to know to stay protected on set.