Wellness Leave Policy: A Simple Guide for Government Employees
The Wellness Leave Policy is now official for all government workers. Starting January 1, 2026, under CSC MC No. 01, s. 2026, this new rule allows eligible employees to take time off from work for mental and physical well-being. If you’re a government employee in the Philippines, this article is for you.
What is the Wellness Leave Policy?
The Wellness Leave Policy is a leave benefit approved by the Civil Service Commission (CSC). It gives qualified government employees up to five (5) days of leave per calendar year for their mental health, physical wellness, or even just a short break from work. This leave is not deducted from your Vacation Leave, Sick Leave, or Special Leave.
This policy supports employee wellness, especially after stressful times like the pandemic. It recognizes how important mental and physical health are to workplace performance.
Who Can Avail of Wellness Leave?
All government workers can use this leave, including those who are:
- Permanent
- Temporary
- Substitute
- Coterminous
- Fixed-term
- Contractual
- Casual
This applies to all government agencies, LGUs (Local Government Units), GOCCs (Government-Owned or Controlled Corporations) with original charters, and SUCs (State Universities and Colleges).
➡️ Note: If you’re a Contract of Service (COS) or Job Order (JO) worker, your eligibility will depend on what is written in your individual contract or specific government guidelines.
How Many Days Are Allowed?
Agencies can approve up to five (5) days of Wellness Leave per calendar year. This is subject to the approval of your agency, so it’s not automatic.
Is Wellness Leave the Same as Vacation or Sick Leave?
No. Wellness Leave is completely separate. It is not part of your:
- Vacation Leave
- Sick Leave
- Special Leave
You get these 5 days in addition to your other leave credits.
How Can You Take Your Wellness Leave?
You have two options for using your Wellness Leave:
- Three (3) consecutive days maximum
- Non-consecutive days throughout the year
So whether you need a short break or want to space your days out, both are allowed.
What Can Wellness Leave Be Used For?
You can use this leave for any of the following:
- Seeing a mental health professional
- Going to the gym, yoga, or physical wellness activity
- Taking a break to rest and reset
Even if your reason is simply to avoid burnout, this leave is for you.
How to Apply for Wellness Leave?
Follow the same process you use for other types of leave:
- Ask for your immediate supervisor’s recommendation
- Submit it for approval by the Head of Office
When Should You File for Wellness Leave?
Submit your application at least five (5) days before the date you plan to take the leave.
✅ Emergency? That’s okay. You can still apply — just do it immediately after returning to work.
Is Mental Health Disclosure Required?
Absolutely not.
Any details about your mental health condition are treated as private and confidential, protected under the Data Privacy Act of 2012. Your privacy is respected.
Can You Carry Over or Convert Unused Leave?
No. Wellness Leave is non-cumulative and non-convertible.
This means:
- You can’t carry over unused days to the next year
- You can’t convert them into cash
- If you don’t use them, you lose them
Use it or lose it—so make sure to take care of yourself while you can.
When Did This Policy Start?
The Wellness Leave Policy started on January 1, 2026, based on CSC Resolution No. 2501292. It was published in the Daily Tribune on December 16, 2025, and took effect 15 days after.
Final Thoughts
The Wellness Leave Policy is a big step forward in supporting the health and well-being of government employees. Whether you’re dealing with stress, taking care of your mental health, or just need a pause—this is your chance to take a breather without touching your other leave credits.
If you’re eligible, talk to your supervisor and make sure you’re aware of your agency’s process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Wellness Leave Policy?
It’s a new benefit that gives government workers time off for wellness-related reasons, separate from vacation and sick leave.
Who can use it?
All government employees, including permanent, temporary, and contractual workers. COS and JO workers must check their contracts.
How many days are allowed?
Up to 5 days per calendar year, depending on agency approval.
Is it part of other leave types?
No. It’s separate from Vacation, Sick, and Special Leave.
How can it be taken?
– Up to 3 days in a row
– Or on separate days
What can it be used for?
– Mental health care
– Physical activities
– General rest or break
How to apply?
Get your supervisor’s recommendation, then submit to the Head of Office.
When should I apply?
At least 5 days before your planned leave. For emergencies, apply as soon as you return.
Do I need to disclose personal info?
No. All health-related information is private and protected.
Can I carry over unused leave?
No. Unused leave will be forfeited at the end of the year.
When did the policy take effect?
January 1, 2026
