First District Representative Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. is seeking a 30-day paid Postpartum Depression Leave for female employees in the public and private sectors who are clinically diagnosed with postpartum depression.

Cong. Pogi filed House Bill No. 10857 on August 24, 2026, proposing that qualified employees be granted paid leave upon submission of a medical certificate from a licensed physician, psychiatrist, or psychologist. The leave would allow them to undergo treatment, counseling, medical care, rest, and recuperation.

The proposed benefit would be separate from and in addition to the maternity leave provided under Republic Act 11210, or the 105-Day Expanded Maternity Leave Law.

The bill also seeks to provide a seven-day Paid Support Leave for the child’s father or qualified partner to care for and support a female partner diagnosed with postpartum depression.

Lazatin said working women often face a “double burden” of employment and family responsibilities, which may contribute to mental health challenges after childbirth.

He said the proposed measure seeks to provide affected women and their families with additional support during recovery.

Postpartum depression is a serious mental health condition that may affect a woman’s ability to care for herself and her child and may require professional treatment and family support.

Cong. Pogi earlier filed House Bill No. 10771, or the proposed Menstrual Leave Act, seeking up to three days of paid menstrual leave each month for female employees.