PlainDoc for Fresh Graduates — Understand Your First Job Contract
Your first job contract can be overwhelming. Don't let legal jargon intimidate you. PlainDoc translates every clause into plain language and flags anything that could hurt you.
What Fresh Graduates should watch for
Probation beyond 6 months
Under Philippine law, probation cannot exceed 6 months. Some companies disguise extended probation as "training periods" — this is illegal.
Training bond traps
Companies may require you to repay "training costs" if you resign within 1-3 years. These bonds should be proportional to actual training investment, not inflated to keep you trapped.
Below-minimum-wage salary
When your monthly salary is divided by 26 working days, does it meet your region's daily minimum wage? Many fresh graduates don't check this.
Missing benefits
SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, and 13th month pay are legally required from day one. If your contract doesn't mention them, ask before signing.
Common risk flags PlainDoc catches
No regularization criteria stated
Your contract should clearly state what standards you need to meet to become a regular employee. Without this, you can be terminated at the end of probation without clear justification.
Unpaid overtime clause
Contracts that say "salary is inclusive of overtime" may be shortchanging you. Overtime pay (25% premium) is a legal right.
Overly broad non-compete
A non-compete that prevents you from working in your entire industry for 2+ years is unreasonable for an entry-level position.