Article 158 (inserted by RA 10151). Women Night Workers. — Measures shall be taken to ensure that an alternative to night work is available to women workers who would otherwise be called upon to perform such work:

1. Before and after childbirth, for a period of at least sixteen (16) weeks, which shall be divided between the time before and after childbirth;

2. For additional periods, in respect of which a medical certificate is produced stating that said additional periods are necessary for the health of the mother or child:

   1. During pregnancy;

   2. During a specified time beyond the period, after childbirth is fixed pursuant to subparagraph (a) above, the length of which shall be determined by the DOLE after consulting the labor organizations and employers.

During the periods referred to in this article:

1. A woman worker shall not be dismissed or given notice of dismissal, except for just or authorized causes provided for in this Code that are not connected with pregnancy, childbirth and childcare responsibilities.

2. A woman worker shall not lose the benefits regarding her status, seniority, and access to promotion which may attach to her regular night work position.

Pregnant women and nursing mothers may be allowed to work at night only if a competent physician, other than the company physician, shall certify their fitness to render night work, and specify, in the case of pregnant employees, the period of the pregnancy that they can safely work.

The measures referred to in this article may include transfer to day work where this is possible, the provision of social security benefits or an extension of maternity leave.

The provisions of this article shall not have the effect of reducing the protection and benefits connected with maternity leave under existing laws.