Court backs P240.6M hazard pay award for GMA Network workers

The Court of Appeals (CA) affirmed on September 16 that at least 500 employees of GMA Network are entitled to P240.6 million in total hazard pay for continuing work during the COVID-19 pandemic. The appellate court rejected arguments that the National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) had committed grave abuse of discretion in its earlier determination awarding the compensation.

The ruling upholds the workers' right to hazard pay for rendering essential services during lockdowns and operational challenges created by the pandemic. The decision represents a significant victory for broadcast employees who maintained station operations during the health crisis.

The CA's confirmation of the NLRC decision resolves a longstanding dispute over pandemic-related compensation for media sector workers. The P240.6 million award covers the period when employees continued their duties despite heightened health and safety risks associated with COVID-19 transmission in workplace environments.