Over 300K overseas workers now safely home P5

Photo by Regie D. Mason, DOLE-IPS GOOD NEWS Completion of OFW hospital on sked P8 TAIWAN JOBS FETE Opens hundreds

Disclosure champP3 of jobs for Pinoys in a sign that OFWs still first in line as global labor market reopens P2

SOLVING LABOR PROBLEMS NOW JUST A CLICK AWAY P3 Gov't earmarks Photo by Regie D. Mason, DOLE-IPS P2B to sustain DOLE IS FOI HALL OF FAMER. Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III (right) receives DOLE’s FOI Hall of Fame trophy during the 2020 Freedom of Information (FOI) Awards at the Philippine Information Agency in on November 25. Handing the award are FOI Champion and PCOO Secretary Jose Ruperto (center) and Assistant Secretary and FOI Program Director Atty. Kristian Ablan (left). OFW aid P2

Virtual work still best

Photo from POLO Dubai Facebook Page alternative OVERSEAS for those Dubai downtime displaced by used to heighten pandemic skills P5 P5

Photo from Althea Louise D. Majan, DOLE-IPS Photo from DOLE CAR FB Page File photo from NCMB REGIONS AGENCIES Former child actress Aid for conflict- NCMB gets high marks is new labor ambassadress from COA Secretary Silvestre Bello III confers the appointment of movie and television personality Bea Binene as DOLE’s special ridden areas celebrity ambassadress in a surprise ceremony during a live program for the labor department’s teleradyo show, Oh My P7 P6 Job on November 28 in Pangasinan. P3 2 November 2020 TAIWAN JOBS FETE TAIWAN – The preference of in the Job Orders of SPIL that the international labor market were submitted to POLO- for the skill and talent of the Taichung for verification,” said Photo from MECO POLO Taichung Facebook Page Filipino remains undeniable. Labor Attaché Macauyag. Even as the pandemic SPIL is one of the leading TAIWAN JOBS FOR PINOYS. POLO-Taichung, headed by Labor Attaché Fidel Macauyag, visit the main office of Siliconware Precision Industries continues to rage around the providers of comprehensive Co. Ltd. (SPIL) to extend appreciation for the company’s preference to hire Filipino workers. SPIL, which is one of the leading providers of globe, doors continue to open semiconductor assembly and comprehensive semiconductor assembly and test services in the world, currently employs more than 3,500 OFWs and intends to hire more. for professional and skilled test services in the world. Filipino workers abroad. Their products include Last October 6, POLO- the prospective OFWs awaiting Recruitment Agencies: Grand Taiwan just reopened its advanced lead-frame and Taichung awarded a Plaque deployment in the Placement & General Services labor market for when substrate-based packages, of Recognition to SPIL for may immediately work in Corp., MIP International it posted close to 800 vacancies which are widely used in employing more than 3,500 Taiwan. Manpower Services, Inc., and in a leading semiconductor computers, tablets, cellular OFWs. POLO-Taichung said inte- JS Contractor Incorporated. manufacturing company for phones, set-top boxes, and LCD Labor Attaché Macauyag rested applicants may apply –POLO Taichung Taiwan qualified Filipino workers. monitors. said they are grateful to the at the following Philippine Labor Attaché Fidel SPIL also manufactures company for its continued Macauyag of the Philippine wearable devices, smart preference for Filipinos to be Labor Office in Taichung Taiwan appliances, IoT, fingerprint part of its workforce. said Silicon Precision Industries sensors, smart cars, VR/AR, Macauyag expressed hope Gov't earmarks P2B Co. Ltd. (SPIL) in Taichung City artificial intelligence, drones, for an early easing of travel needs 779 additional workers smart speakers, digital cameras, protocols and limitation in its factories. and video game consoles, on the number of inbound to sustain OFW aid “The vacancies are contained among others. passengers in Taiwan so that THE labor department Welfare Administration is set to disburse another (OWWA) to process and P2 billion in AKAP funds evaluate the applications in to assist overseas Filipino advance. workers who have been “This will shorten the permanently or temporarily waiting period of OFW Disclosure champ displaced from work due to applicants as they are now COVID-19 as an additional allowed to apply while THE labor department has a new several years to advocate the drive us to be more committed fund so that it can continue still on site and receive the feather on its cap, this time for highest level of transparency. for this cause,” he also said. helping overseas Filipino financial assistance once its commitment to management Transparency and accountability DOLE focuses this year on workers still being displaced they come back home to the based on transparency and are pillars of good governance proactive disclosure of data by the pandemic. Philippines,” Bello said. public accountability. which the DOLE upholds and information which are key Late in November, the through its policies and to the development of ‘smart Known as the DOLE- For stranded Balik- department was elevated into programs, he added. citizens’, Bello said, adding that AKAP fund, the assistance Manggagawa and seafarers the Hall of Fame in the Freedom “Even at the height of the well-informed workers and is a one-time cash aid of $200 whose deployment were of Information Awards. It pandemic and the prevalence employers are key to industrial given to a distressed OFW. suspended due to COVID-19 achieved this by besting other of fake news, DOLE did its peace. The extra fund was made as well as those who have national government agencies best in communicating the real “Progressive industries pave possible with the passage of been and will be repatriated for three consecutive years as employment situation and true the way for a strong economy,” the Bayanihan 2 law and in before 30 November 2020, FOI champion. condition of the Filipino workers he added. keeping with the wishes of applications must still be In his acceptance speech and employers,” Bello said. Bello thanked PCOO chief President filed through dole-akap. during the 2020 FOI Awards He added, “We are humbled Secretary Martin Andanar and the fund is being released owwa.gov.ph. On the other ceremony at the Philippine by the yearly recognition FOI Program Director Assistant expeditiously in time for the hand, displaced OFWs who Information Agency in Quezon bestowed on us for our adherence Secretary Kristian Ablan and holidays. will remain onsite may file City, Labor Secretary Silvestre to the FOI Program. We have no the rest of the FOI Team “for OFWs who will their application through Bello III vowed to lead the plans of stopping this practice their endless commitment be repatriated to the the Philippine Overseas DOLE in the continuing quest of that has become a tradition.” and support to the DOLE in Philippines may file their Labor Office (POLO) empowering the people through “The challenges we face only facilitating the FOI Program.” AKAP application prior covering their workplace. transparency and the free flow of to their arrival in the Since the implementation information. country, and receive their of AKAP last April, the The FOI Awards is annually benefits within three to five DOLE, through OWWA, given by the Presidential days upon submission of DOLE Regional Offices, Communications Operations complete documents. and POLOs has already Office (PCOO) to government Laor Secretary approved a total of 389,996 agencies and organizations that Silvestre Bello III said the applications from OFWs. have championed transparency streamlining of the process As of November 28, and people empowerment followed the directive of the DOLE had disbursed P3.45 through the basic right to President to enable more billion benefitting 338,900 information. Agencies that win OFWs to benefit from the distressed OFWs. The AKAP for three consecutive years are one-time cash assistance. program already received elevated into the FOI Hall of In the new system, all 683,369 applications for Fame. new applications for AKAP assistance. “As the FOI program entails will be accepted through the With the fresh P2 billion Photo by Regie D. Mason, DOLE-IPS openness across the government, website oasis.owwa.gov.ph fund under Bayanihan 2, an the department will remain for displaced OFWs who are additional 200,000 OFWs committed in ensuring an FOI CHAMPION. Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III (second to the left), together with scheduled for repatriation. will be provided the P10,000 informed and empowered Undersecretary Joji Aragon (second to the right) and Internal Audit Service OIC-Director Rovelinda Dela Rosa (rightmost), receives the Hall of Fame Award in behalf of DOLE during the This will allow the offices cash aid. citizenry,” Bello said. 2020 Freedom of Information (FOI) Awards at the Philippine Information Agency in Quezon of the Overseas Workers Bello said it has been the City on November 25. Leading the awarding ceremony is FOI Champion and PCOO Secretary practice of DOLE over the past Jose Ruperto Martin Andanar (leftmost).

dole.gov.ph PHILIPPINE LABOR November 2020 3 Binene named DOLE Solving labor problems now just a click away special ambassadress AMICABLY settling labor Afterward, the notice of disputes even amid the pandemic conference, which indicates can now be processed without the date, time, and mode of the MOVIE and TV personality highly qualified and deserving chose to do what she liked most- delay as the labor department initial conference, shall be sent Bea Binene was appointed as members of the show business to help the public get informed. implements online conciliation- to the parties through the use special ambassadress of the labor industry. “That's what I like best about mediation under the Single Entry of courier services, facsimile, department, making the former "This is a dream come true Bea. Her passion is my passion," Approach (SEnA) program. electronic mail, Messenger, Viber, young workers' welfare advocate as I have always wanted to Bello said. Labor Secretary Silvestre Google calendar, or other digital a full-fledged DOLE labor and take on greater responsibilities "Like DOLE, I'm confident Bea Bello III issued Administrative platforms. employment advocate. and meaningful achievements, could become a champion and Order No. 215, series of 2020 To minimize face-to-face The distinction was conferred especially those concerning hall of fame in public information. providing the guidelines on the contact among the requesting to Binene in a surprise ceremony Filipino workers," Binene said. Watch her prove it in our weekly implementation of online SEnA and responding parties, the SEnA led by Labor Secretary Silvestre As a child talent, Binene TV show, OMJ," Bello said. or e-SEnA, from the filing of conference shall be conducted Bello III during a live program brought to fore pressing labor Binene was in San Carlos and the request for assistance up to through video conferencing from Pangasinan for DOLE's issues in a news and current Rosales, Pangasinan to support the settlement or referral of the or through teleconferencing, teleradyo show on November 28. affairs TV show, early manifesting DOLE's implementation of the complaint. whichever is applicable. The pretty-faced actress and her passion to help workers via Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa SEnA is an administrative In case of non-availability of TV news anchor accepted the public information. Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced approach that aims to provide digital platforms or when either designation indicating her new Despite her success in movies Workers Program (TUPAD). speedy, impartial, inexpensive, or both parties refuse video and accessible settlement conferencing or teleconferencing, role and mission only given to and other endeavors, Binene procedures of all labor issues or a face-to-face conference may be conflicts to prevent them from allowed. ripening into full-blown disputes Once settlement is reached, or actual labor cases. the SEnA Desk Officer shall draft DOLE, DA ink GIP deal Through e-SEnA, parties no the agreement and send copies longer have to visit the Single to the parties, and secure their Entry Assistance Desk to file concurrence. a request for assistance and to Parties may agree to meet at the to fill gaps in agri labor attend SEnA conferences. company premises for the signing Under the guidelines, a of the agreement, implementation THE labor and agriculture JobsFit Labor Market Information “From the labor and requesting party may access the of its terms, and payout of benefits. departments have joined hands Report 2022, several jobs in the employment perspective, the SEnA form at https://sena.dole.gov. If practicable, the SEnA Desk in addressing one of the pressing agribusiness sector are classified development of the rural sector is ph. Officer may also join and witness questions in rural development— as in-demand but hard to fill. This a crucial first step for the country Once accomplished, the the signing. the dearth of professionals and include agricultural economists, to provide more and better jobs form may be submitted through If the signing of the agreement skilled workers in the agriculture animal husbandry, aqua-culturist, for the poor. Three-quarters of the facsimile, electronic mail, at the company premises is not sector. agricultural and biosystems poor are found in the rural areas Messenger, or Viber. It may also possible, the same shall be done at Hundreds of young engineer. and agriculture employs most of be submitted personally at the the DOLE office at a date agreed agricultural professionals are Bello said that while the the poor, which means agriculture designated SEnA Desks, but online upon by parties. set to be deployed to various country is transitioning to an plays a key role in efficiently submission is highly encouraged If the request for assistance offices and projects under the economy with more emphasis on reducing poverty,” Bello said. by the Department. remains unsettled or after the labor department’s Government manufacturing and service, it is DOLE-GIP is a program that The assigned SEnA Desk Officer lapse of the mandated 30-day Internship Program (GIP). still an agricultural country where aims to provide opportunities and shall then call the requesting party period for conciliation-mediation, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello nearly one third of its labor force is engage young workers to serve in within three working days from and the requesting party decides III and Agriculture Secretary employed in agriculture made up government agencies, projects and receipt of the request for assistance to pursue the issue in another recently signed of farming, fisheries, forestry, and programs at the national and local for interview or validation of office, the SEnA Desk Officer shall an agreement that will help fill livestock. levels. information. The details on the prepare and sign the referral form the gap in professionals in the Based on data provided The internship period shall be conduct of the SEnA conference and send it to the requesting party. country’s farming sector. by DOLE’s Bureau of Local for a minimum of three months shall likewise be discussed. –Althea Louise D. Majan In the deal, DOLE’s GIP will Employment (BLE), Bello stressed to a maximum of six months and funnel hundreds of technical there are 711 agricultural and the stipend is equivalent to the and biosystems engineers and biosystems engineers who passed existing minimum wage of the agriculture graduates to the DA the licensure examination and region where the beneficiary is so that they could be deployed to more or less 1,000 new agricultural employed, and shall be entitled to various government projects and and biosystems engineering insurance coverage. agricultural offices in the country. graduates who will enter the labor Bello said that based on the market. Helper displaced by pandemic gets back pay from errant firm STEADFAST in resolving hometown to be with his family. amicably settled immediately. labor disputes even during the In need of money to start anew, DOLE-X Misamis Oriental pandemic, the labor department he visited the Gingoog Satellite Provincial Field Office Chief has facilitated the amicable Office and filed a complaint on Errol Natividad said that during settlement of wage claims by a the grounds of underpayment of the conciliation, the company displaced construction worker wages. He was paid below the committed to pay P15,000 wage from Misamis Oriental. statutory minimum wage rate differential through check via Utilizing the Single Entry during his 10-month stint in the courier and another P9,376 Approach (SEnA), the Department company from July 2019 to May representing his last salary of Labor and Employment Regional 2020. through money remittance center. Office 10 (DOLE-X), through its Mansumagan was assisted by Mansumagan expressed Misamis Oriental Gingoog Satellite Ellen Polo Reyes, who was the his gratitude and said that the Office, successfully conducted DOLE-X staff assigned in the said remuneration will defray their conciliation-mediation in response satellite office. Instead of the usual household expenses, including his to the request for assistance by face-to-face conference between transportation cost from Manila to Photo from RTWPB-Region VII Facebook page Bernaldo Mansumagan, who the employer and the employee, Gingoog City. He will also use the complained his previous employer they communicated with the money to start farming. for underpayment of wages. company’s representative through He was likewise referred to the Under SEnA, all labor and to sustain industrial peace in After losing his job as a phone calls in compliance with the DOLE’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay employment disputes shall workplaces. construction worker/dump truck health and safety protocols being sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced undergo a 30-day mandatory –Monadetter N. Balanay with helper in a Parañaque-based implemented nationwide. Workers (TUPAD) program. conciliation-mediation process additional reports from Lalaine company amid the pandemic, With the cooperation of aimed to amicably settle simple V. Delima and Ellen Pollo Reyes/ Mansumagan went back to his both parties, the complaint was labor-management disagreements DOLE-X Mis. Or. PFO

PHILIPPINE LABOR @laborandemployment 4 November 2020

DOLE-CAR Regional Director Exequiel Ronie A. Guzman In a land of beauty and strife, DOLE-CAR’s RD Guzman is both patron of amity and work

by Patrick Rillorta field offices have always been effective government assistance Organization in Barangay in the frontline in the effort to grassroots communities is a Malayugan in Flora, Apayao ITS beauty notwithstanding, to bring government to the big deterrent to armed conflict, with 100 members. the Cordillera Autonomous region’s far-flung communities. and DOLE’s own social Other projects are the Region (CAR) is one of the most And they have done this task amelioration program to OFWs Rice Wine Production worth rugged and depressed areas even if it has meant risking and workers in both the formal P459,707 of the Amduntog Rice in the country. Like visitors their safety not only for health and informal sectors during Wine Producers Association of enchanted by its climate and concerns but for social and the pandemic is also a way of Barangay Amduntog, Asipulo, verdure, public servants in political strife. And in the ameliorating a sense of need Ifugao with 52 members; the RD Guzman the region find the place both Cordilleras another hindrance and helplessness among the purchase of farm implements inspiring and challenging. to the delivery of DOLE’s communities especially during amounting to P489,960 for support. Its mountainous terrain program and services a is the this debilitating crisis. the Ankileng Rumang-ayan Currently, the Regional and isolated He said that Organization of Barangay Office is implementing the communities are it is right that Ankileng in Sagada, Mt. Bayanihan to heal as One commonly hard Labor Secretary Province. CAMP 2 financial assistance to reach during “I'm grateful to have Silvestre Bello In Kalinga, there are three to the formal sector workers in normal times; III firmly livelihood projects provided to Cordillera with a total of 5,206 and in lockdowns colleagues who are supports the Apatan Farmers Indigenous establishments involving 80,424 and pandemics President Association in Barangay Apatan affected workers. The number bringing public equally as excited for Rodrigo Roa in Pinukpuk, the Tanglag includes 966 establishments service to farflung Duterte’s Community Organization with 20,808 workers that communities work and committed policy on and Unity for Development of implemented flexible working becomes doubly a “whole- Barangay Tanglag, Lubuagan, arrangements (reduction of challenging. to help, even risking of-nation” with an allotment of P400,004.50 workdays, rotation of workers, The ambiguity approach to and P504, 880.00 respectively, to implementation of forced of the place has their lives to bring end the 50-year purchase post-harvest facilities. leave and telecommuting or not been lost on communist The individual recipient is from work from home) while 4,204 Director Exequiel DOLE programs to the insurgency Barangay Dupag in Tabuk, City, establishments involving Ronie Guzman, through a more Kalinga for a Duck Raising 59,601 workers implemented the regional Cordilleran worker.” focused and Project with P20,000 funding temporary closures. director of the synchronize Department effort involving of Labor and Employment presence of armed groups. all branches of government and (DOLE-CAR). “I thank God that my fellow all sectors of society. “It is during uncertain times public servants in DOLE-CAR There are 61 identified that someone has to stand have been equipped with barangays in the Cordilleras up with conviction because courage and commitment to affected by insurgency and communities and families are perform vitally important work influenced by the Communist in quarantine, businesses and that affects the lives of many Party of the Philippines- Executive Editor | RAUL M. FRANCIA employment are down.” workerers in the region both National Democratic Front- Editor-in-Chief | GERRY S. RUBIO And in the Cordilleras, with in the private sector and the New People’s Army (CPP- Issue Editor | ALTHEA LOUISE D. MAJAN its culture of hardwork and its informal sector,” RD Guzman NDF-NPA). Sixteen barangays rugged landscape, you cannot gushes. in Kalinga; 15 in Abra; eight in Central Desk | RHEA S. CARLOS | N.L. PETILLA just let the crisis slide and let “This is the reason why I'm Mt. Province; eight in Ifugao MARIO F. FETALINO JR the people come to you for grateful to have colleagues who and two in Apayao. Senior Writers | CORAZON C. GONZALES | TEEPHANIE D. LADERAS their needs. You have to go out are equally as excited for work RD Ronie has instructed PETER PAUL R. ANG and double your effort to bring and committed to help, even the Field Office Heads of the public service to them,” said risking their lives to bring the Provinces of Abra, Apayao, Contributing Writers | HERSHEY AQUINO, NCR | PATRICK RILLORTA, CAR RD Guzman. programs of the department Ifugao, Kalinga and Mt. ARLY STA. ANA-VALDEZ, RO1 | REGINALD ESTIOCO, RO2 “This is the reason why to the Cordilleran worker," he Province to prioritize livelihood JELYN ABELLA, RO3 | FRANZ RAYMOND AQUINO, RO4-A we leave no stone unturned said. assistance to the insurgency EMMANUEL ANTONIO PORTUGAL, RO4-B | JOHANA VI GASGA, RO5 in bringing the programs Last March, CAR was affected barangays in their Area NIEZEL ANEN SABRIDO, RO6 | LUCHEL TANIZA, RO7 NORMA RAE COSTIMIANO, RO8 | KAREN CLAIRE GRAFIA, RO9 and services of DOLE to the put under strict General of Responsibility (AOR). MILDRED DABLIO, RO10 | EDUARDO MONREAL, RO11 remotest parts of the region Community Quarantine and the This month alone, a total CHRISTOPHER GAMBOA, RO12 | OLGA VIRGINIA DEMATA, CARAGA even in a time of lockdowns urgency to implement DOLE’s of P3.084 million worth of and strict border controls,” he financial aid program for livelihood assistance was given Creative Artist | VERONICA C. CASIL said. Cordillera’s workers resulted in to help alleviate the living Photographers | ALEJANDRO P. ECHAVEZ | REGIE D. MASON These services include the DOLE-CAR hunkering down condition of the people in the DOLE Integrated Livelihood to work notwithstanding the NPA-influenced barangays Circulation Manager | GIRLIE MARLYN E. ARCE Program (DILP), Tulong restrictions posed by limited in coordination with various Circulation Assistants | MADELYN D. DOMETITA | RANDY F. FERNANDEZ Panghanapbuhay sa Ating manpower and gripping effects municipalities. Disadvantaged/Displaced of the region-wide lockdown. Among the livelihood The PHILIPPINE LABOR is the official publication of the workers program (TUPAD), Still during the initial stages projects provided include Department of Labor and Employment with editorial office at the the Government Internship of the pandemic and with RD Layer Egg Production Information and Publication Service Program (GIP), including the Guzman's steady leadership amounting to P323,081.00 of 5th Floor, DOLE Building, General Luna Wing, Manila. protection of workers in the DOLE-CAR was able to extend Sitio Dilong in Barangay Tubo formal and informal sector assistance to 25,734 formal in Abra with 51 members; Rice and protection of children in sector workers with DOLE’s Mill project with funding of armed conflict in convergence CAMP 1 financial assistance P430,234.00 for the Upper Atok with other agencies through and to 14,049 Cordillerans Upland Farmers Association Readers’ queries, comments, and suggestions are welcome. the government’s End Local through the department’s in Barangay Atok, Flora in Mail or fax them in, or call us Communist Armed Conflict TUPAD #BKBK# program, Apayao with 89 members; at telephone numbers 527-3000 loc. 620, 621, 622, 623, 625, 626, 627. (ELCAC) Program. while 4,517 OFWs were given and the establishment of a Our fax number is 527-3446. The men and women of the $200 AKAP cash assistance. bakery which costs P456,360 You may also visit our website: DOLE, especially those in the www.dole.gov.ph; RD Guzman believes that for the Malaganay-Layugan or e-mail us at [email protected]. dole.gov.ph PHILIPPINE LABOR November 2020 • OVERSEAS • 5 Virtual jobs best alternative for displaced OFWs – DOLE HOME and internet-based sometimes create misconceptions, Peñaredondo added that jobs are among the best career doubts, and fears as they are writers, accountants, bloggers, alternatives for displaced novel and have not been fully advertisers, bookkeepers, coders, overseas Filipino workers explored yet by many people. software engineers, illustrators, (OFWs) and those returning to Admitting that virtual videographers, and many other the Philippines for good. careers are not for everyone, skilled professionals can build Photo from ILS Facebook Page This was the gist of the Peñaredondo, however, noted their virtual careers if they so webinar conducted by the labor that many of those who chose wish. CAREER ALTERNATIVES FOR OFWS. A webinar conducted by ILS and POLO Singapore highlighted that home and internet-based jobs are among the best career alternatives for department’s Institute for Labor to go into these careers became Labor Attaché Saul De Vries displaced OFWs and those returning to the Philippines for good. Studies (ILS) and the Philippine successful. underscored the importance Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Former OFWs Lyn Nafarette of internet training amidst the ILS Executive Director around the topic “Paano maging Singapore. and Tina Lanipa were among ongoing global pandemic which Ahmma Charisma Satumba said OFW na hindi lumalabas ng “Virtual career allows one the 80 OFWs who attended the has displaced thousands of OFWs that virtual careers provide vast Pilipinas?” (How to be OFW to work at the comfort of home, webinar. They shared how they in Singapore and other countries. opportunities for OFWs and without leaving the Philippines?) earn different currencies and successfully shifted to virtual “Virtual careers are alternative other workers as the market for was streamed live on Facebook serve different businesses,” said careers, which allowed them to options for those who have been virtual work is open, wide, and with thousands of views. –POLO webinar speaker Ann Kristine earn as much as when they were displaced by COVID-19 and this deep. Singapore/ GSR Peñaredondo, a marketing working overseas while staying also includes even those who do The webinar, which revolved strategist and published author. and spending time with their not want to work away from their She said that virtual careers families. families,” De Vries stressed. More than 300k OFWs Pinoys in Germany get online now safely home assistance on government services AS OF this month, the after the needs of the returning FRANKFURT GERMANY – in all forms particularly in the and their dependents, such as government has sent home close OFWs.” Overseas Filipinos in Germany provision of livelihood, trainings, TABANG OFW and PROJECT to 320,000 returning overseas “There is no stopping the were provided with knowledge and financial assistance. EASE. Filipino workers, according government from extending the on business opportunities and Labor Attaché Delmer Cruz Meanwhile, Tulong to the latest data of the labor assistance to our dear OFWs. assistance being offered by of the Philippine Overseas Labor Pangkabuhayan sa Pag-unlad department. We have also enhanced our different government agencies. Office in Berlin participated as ng Samahan OFWs (TULONG In a report to Labor livelihood programs for the In a webinar hosted by the one of the resource speakers. PUSO), he said, provides a cash Philippine Consulate General in Labor Attaché Cruz said that assistance grant up to a maximum Secretary Silvestre Bello III, reintegration of our returning Frankfurt via Facebook livestream as part of OFWs’ social protection, of P1 million for duly registered the Overseas Workers Welfare heroes,” he said. on November 21, participants 2,568 displaced workers were OFW organizations. Also, the Administration said 319,333 The labor chief also said were provided with knowledge provided with the Abot-Kamay Enterprise Development and OFWs were transported to DOLE’s foreign posts continue on business opportunities ang Pagtulong (AKAP) one- Loan Program (EDLP) is a loan their respective provinces as of to monitor the condition of offered to overseas Filipinos by time US$200 financial assistance facility in partnership with the November 21, after they were OFWs and provide assistance in different government agencies, from DOLE as well as another Land Bank of the Philippines all cleared and tested negative their respective jurisdictions. namely, the Department of US$200 financial assistance from and Development Bank of the from the COVID-19. Citing separate reports by Labor and Employment (DOLE), the Overseas Workers Welfare Philippines amounting to a For the month alone, 38,516 the Philippine Overseas Labor Department of Agriculture (DA), Administration (OWWA) for 95 maximum of P2 million and P5 OFWs were flown and bused to Offices as of November 22, Bello and Department of Trade and OFWs who were infected with million for individual and group their destinations, the OWWA said a good number of OFWs Industry (DTI), including their COVID-19. borrowers, respectively. report said. who were afflicted by COVID attached agencies. Labor Attaché Cruz also Aside from these, capacity OWWA took care of their have recovered from the disease. The webinar, which garnered discussed the business and building and development hotel accommodation and food “We are glad to note that we over a thousand views, aimed livelihood opportunities offered trainings are also offered and while waiting for the result of have a very good recovery rate to enlighten overseas Filipinos to OFWs by DOLE and its attached required for those who want their COVID test taken upon among our COVID-stricken about the opportunities and agencies, such as OWWA and to avail the above-mentioned arrival in Manila. The DOLE OFWs,” he said. ventures they can engage in National Reintegration Center programs, such as the Financial agency also facilitated their “It is my ardent hope that especially during this time of the for OFWs (NRCO). Awareness Seminar and transport back to their provinces no more OFWs get infected and pandemic. Among these programs Small Business Management as soon as they are cleared of become sick of COVID while In her opening remarks, are the Balik-Pinas, Balik- Training, Pinansyal na Talino Consul General Evelyn Austria- Hanapbuhay Program, at Kaalaman (PiTaKa), OFW COVID. they continue to sacrifice being Garcia said that although Livelihood Development Reintegration through Skills and Bello praised OWWA for away from their family,” Bello the global economy has been Assistance Program, and Balik Entrepreneurship (OFW RISE), “being relentless in looking said. massively affected by the Pinay! Balik-Hanapbuhay as and My Negosyo… Bukas Ko for COVID-19 pandemic, the individual livelihood grants. OFWs. –POLO Berlin Philippine government extends There are also educational “Ako po ay dumating sa isang masarap na putahe ay hindi its help to overseas Filipinos assistance offered to OFWs POLO ng March 7. Natuto akong ang presyo nito kung hindi ang manahi noong April 3 sa POLO tama at malinis na paghahanda kay teacher Glenda ng reversible ng mga rekado. Nadagdagan bag. Wala po akong background natin ang kaalaman sa pagluluto sa pananahi, yun po ang first time ng mga kababaihan sa POLO Female OFWs in Dubai use ko humawak ng makina. Sa aking Dubai,” said Oliveros. pagsali ay naging confident ako sa MWOFRC ward Angelica pananahi at dumating sa puntong Benitez has found hope after downtime to upgrade work skills ako naman ay nag-aassist kay learning new skills in the cooking teacher Glenda sa mga baguhan class. DUBAI – The labor department announced that it had provided staff. na gusto din matuto manahi,” “Nag-join po ako sa cooking says that the reason why the skill skills enhancement trainings In March, at the onset of the shared Besa. class dahil gusto ko matuto ng and talent of the overseas Filipino to female wards housed at the pandemic, POLO staffer Glenda Erika Oliveros, another iba’t ibang klase ng luto. Sa worker (OFW) is a premium all Migrant Workers and Other Alibasa started teaching basic POLO staffer, started teaching umpisa ay kinabahan po ako baka over the world is because OFWs Overseas Filipinos Resource sewing at the MWOFRC. cooking to 20 ladies housed at the hindi ko magawa ng maayos ang never stop honing their skill and Center (MWOFRC). Presently, a total of 170 ladies MWOFRC. pagluluto, pero nakuha ko rin talent even in a time of pandemic. The MWOFRC, which is have already participated in the The participants learned the naman ang tamang lasa ng mga In Dubai, the Philippine managed by the POLO, serves training, which is conducted on different ingredients used for tinurong putahe ni mam Erika. Overseas Labor Office (POLO) as a temporary shelter for weekends. salads and the various techniques Kung sakali man ay gagamitin ko said that female OFWs have “distressed” overseas Filipinos. MWOFRC ward Vanessa Besa for cutting, mixing, and cooking. ang natutunan ko para magtayo been undergoing reskilling and In the center, the OFWs is one of Alibasa’s trainees. With “Marami ang iniisip na ng negosyo tulad ng karinderya upskilling trainings even amid learn new techniques on sewing no background in sewing, Besa kinakailangan na sa mga pag-uwi sa Pilipinas,” said the coronavirus pandemic. and cooking through in-house has learned how to sew various restaurant makakain ng masarap Benitez. –POLO Dubai POLO-Dubai recently trainings conducted by the POLO items in less than a month. na pagkain. Ngunit ang sikreto sa

PHILIPPINE LABOR @laborandemployment 6 • AGENCIES • November 2020 OFW RISE to help displaced workers rebound back

by Althea Louise D. Majan between government and the private sector in our desire to THE labor department is leaving empower and ensure the welfare no stone unturned in its mandate of our OFW returnees,” he added. to ensure the welfare and The four-hour entrepreneur- livelihood of all overseas Filipino ship course is in an “edutain- workers (OFWs). ment” format so that they can be Photo by Regie D. Mason, DOLE-IPS With the current pandemic, accessible through an OFW’s cell- the department has ramped up phone or gadget even while they OFW RISE. Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III (2nd from right), together with (from left) Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Deputy its program that imparts business are in quarantine during their Administrator Faustino Sabares III, OWWA Administrator Hans Leo Cacdac, and Coca-Cola Philippines Public Affairs and Communications and Sustainability Director Jonah de Lumen-Pernia show a copy of the Memorandum of Agreement for the Overseas Filipino Workers Re-Integration skills to OFWs and their families. transit for home. through Skills and Entrepreneurship (OFW RISE) Program signed during a ceremony on November 5 at the DOLE Central Office in Intramuros, The department is now offering Under the agreement, OWWA Manila. an online entrepreneurship shall provide partner agencies course to assist returning OFWs with information on returning in developing their business OFWs as well as the location of undertakings. quarantine centers to facilitate the OWWA’s legacy program secures Dubbed OFW Reintegration planning of processes, targeting through Skills and of participants, and scheduling of Entrepreneurship (OFW RISE) activities. both OFW and his or her offspring Program, the initiative aims It shall also facilitate the to provide OFWs access to application of OFWs who have The Overseas Welfare engineer; Myla Geronga, who Geronga became an EDSP web-based training on basic completed the OFW RISE online Administration (OWWA) has recently graduated with honors; grantee in 2018 and became a entrepreneurship and practical course and have submitted their always believed in the saying that and Angelika Marie Fundal, now a consistent Dean’s Lister. She business coaching, enable them business canvass to OWWA the whole is bigger than the sum licensed teacher. expressed gratitude to OWWA to develop their business idea, Livelihood Programs for of its parts. This is the reason why When Navarez, from Digos and to her sister for enabling her to and implement the same through Reintegration for the formation the agency that primarily handles City, Davao del Sur availed of finish her studies. livelihood assistance and other or enhancement of their business. the welfare of the migrant Filipino the EDSP in 2011, he did not just Fundal was an ODSP grantee microfinancing programs. Coca-Cola Philippines, on the have always had a soft heart for pass the qualifying examinations who took up Bachelor of Secondary The initiative is a collaboration other hand, will lead the design the children of OFWs. administered by the Department Education, Major in English at among Coca-Cola Philippines; and conduct of the webinars To secure the future of of Science and Technology Capiz State University in 2013. She the DOLE family, such as the for the program facilitators and dependents of OFWs, OWWA (DOST), he also ranked ninth graduated Cum Laude in March Overseas Workers Welfare business coaches and allocate has offered scholarships and among all passers that year. After 2017. Administration (OWWA) resources to print initial sets educational assistance through passing the examinations, he After passing the Licensure and National Reintegration of the training handbooks. The its Education for Development took up a Bachelor of Science in Examination for Teachers Center for OFWs (NRCO); soft drink company will also Scholarship Program (EDSP) and Civil Engineering at the Cor Jesu (LET), Fundal was hired by the Technical Education and Skills help OFWs access to selected the OFW Dependent Scholarship College, Digos City. Department of Education as Development Authority (TESDA); microfinance companies. Program (ODSP). Navarez is now a Laboratory Teacher I at San Nicolas National and Philippine Trade Training TESDA, on the other hand is The EDSP is a scholarship grant Engineer at Qualitest Solutions and High School in Tapaz, Capiz. Center (PTTC). tasked with hosting OFW RISE amounting to P60,000 per school Technologies, Inc. in Davao City Armed with her passion for “We recognize the importance program in all regions, facilitate year to qualified dependents of and a part-time instructor at the teaching and learning, she obtained of entrepreneurship orientations the issuance of graduation active OWWA members who Cor Jesu College of Engineering. . her Master of Arts in Teaching and training to stir entrepreneurial certificates to participants and intend to pursue a four- or five- Geronga, meanwhile, Major in English at Filamer willingness among our OFW provide partner agencies access year baccalaureate course in any graduated cum laude in Business Christian University in June 2020 returnees. We want to support to enrollment data. preferred college or university. Administration at Saint Joseph and was awarded Outstanding in their productive reintegration and PTTC will help tap the On the other hand, the ODSP Institute of Technology in Butuan. Thesis Writing. help them set up a business where Department of Trade and is an educational assistance Geronga’s sister Daisy, a Currently, Fundal is pursuing they can be with their families,” Industry Negosyo Centers to amounting to P20,000 per school manicurist in the UAE was feeling a Doctor of Education major in Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello enable the development of an year to qualified dependents of burdened supporting her nine English Language Teaching also III said during the signing of the ecosystem for OFW assistance on active OWWA members whose siblings, so she encouraged her at Filamer Christian University. memorandum of agreement early business start-ups, including their salary is not more than US$600. sister to apply for an OWWA –OWWA Among the recipients of scholarship. this month at the DOLE office in network of business coaching or OWWA scholarship grants, who Intramuros. mentoring, and provide other are now young professionals, are “This multisector partnership business development assistance. Justine Wendell Navarez, a civil is a model of technical cooperation NCMB finances get high

weeks for the Elimination of DOLE to VAW victims: Violence Against Women and marks from COA Children by Gillian Pearl L. Guerrero DOLE encourages the public to also visit the campaign page THE National Conciliation pertinent documents, without Report abuses at the Philippine Commission and Mediation Board (NCMB) any identified exceptions.” on Women website (https:// received an unqualified audit NCMB Executive Director AS THE government “The implementation of the pcw.gov.ph/2020-18-day- opinion from the Commission Teresita L. Cancio congratulated intensifies its campaign to quarantine may have hindered campaign-to-end-violence- on Audit (COA) based on the the officials and personnel of end Violence Against Women victims as well to seek help, against-women/) or contact fairness of the presentation of the agency, citing both the (VAW), the Department of report the abuse, or escape their PCW telephone numbers (02) the Board’s financial statements administrative and financial Labor and Employment exhorts perpetrators," Bello said. 8735-1654 loc. 131 / (02) 8735- for fiscal year 2019, a first in the teams as well as its regional women who have been victims Bello thus ordered all DOLE 8509 or email events.pcw@ Board’s 31 year history. branches. of or are suffering from abuses bureaus, services, regional gmail.com. An unqualified opinion is “The Board’s unqualified to report the perpetrators to offices, and attached agencies Through its Bureau of the highest commendation COA rating would never be attained authorities. to promote awareness on the Workers with Special Concerns grants to government agencies without the commitment and “It is everyone’s forms of violence that women (BWSC), DOLE takes charge for exceptional financial and au- dedication of our staff in the commitment and contribution and girls experience and in advancing the welfare and diting practices. Internal Services Department to end violence against women,” provide them information on interests of workers in the The Board was audited by specifically those in the Bello said, as he enjoined heads laws protecting their rights. informal sector, women, young the Commission to determine Financial and Management of the labor department’s The labor chief also pushed workers, and persons with the propriety of transactions as Division of the Central Office attached agencies, bureaus, for the promotion of VAW- disabilities. well as its level of compliance and the Administrative and regional offices, and services to related services that people DOLE has also been with current budgeting and Financial Units of the regional gather public support for the can access and avail of and awarded by the Philippine auditing laws and to determine branches,” Cancio said. campaign. strengthen the prevention and Commission on Women the the extent of its implementation Cancio reiterated the board’s DOLE noted that due to response system on VAW. GADTimpala Award as one of of prior audit recommendations. commitment to continuously quarantine measures imposed Proclamation No. 1172, s. the most outstanding gender- According to COA, the audit improve its processes to ensure to prevent the spread of of 2006 and RA No. 10398, s. responsive agencies and for provided a reasonable basis transparency in its financial COVID-19, women may of 2013 declared November 25 championing the labor rights for rendering an unqualified statements and compliance with experience different forms of to December 12 of every year of women and promoting their opinion after NCMB “fairly generally existing accounting violence and harassment. as the National Consciousness economic empowerment. –GSR and appropriately presented all rules and principles.

dole.gov.ph PHILIPPINE LABOR November 2020 • THE REGIONS • 7 Bello gives aid to Pangasinan poor Guimaras fishermen OVER P19 million worth of In San Carlos City, 847 livelihood assistance worth P1.4 assistance were awarded to TUPAD beneficiaries received million to 72 beneficiaries from get motorized boats 3,606 informal sector workers their wages amounting to Umingan, Pangasinan. and overseas Filipino workers in a total of P4 million, while The assistance will be used THEY used to paddle their Because of the aid, Bello said Pangasinan. 677 beneficiaries from the by the beneficiaries to undertake wooden bancas when fishing. lives will improve for fishermen Labor Secretary Silvestre municipalities of Umingan, San their livelihood projects which Now, poor fishermen in 11 coastal barangays namely Bello III led the awarding of Quintin, Balungao, and Tayug include farming, agricultural in Guimaras are sporting Cabalagnan, Tanhawan, assistance to select beneficiaries received their wages amounting supply trading, sari-sari store, motorized boats to harvest Dolores, Igang, Igdarapdap, of Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa to a total of P2.3 million after and rice retailing. the bounties of the seas after Lapaz, Lucmayan, Magamay, receiving P3 million in livelihood Pandaraonan, Poblacion, San Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced their short-term work under Lastly, Bello personally assistance from the government. Roque, San Antonio, Santo Workers Program (TUPAD), the Department’s emergency awarded P10,000 each to 16 A total of 150 fishermen Domingo, Tando, Guiwanon DOLE Integrated Livelihood employment program. AKAP program beneficiaries in from Nueva Valencia benefitted and Panubulon. Program, and Abot Kamay ang Another set of 1,498 San Carlos City and Rosales. from the livelihood grant of Meanwhile, DOLE Regional Pagtulong (AKAP) Program in beneficiaries from the The recipients are OFWs the Department of Labor and Director Cyril L. Ticao said separate awarding ceremonies Municipality of Binalonan whose incomes were affected by Employment, according to a the grant was given to the in San Carlos City and Rosales. received their salary worth P8.5 the COVID-19 pandemic. report of the DOLE Regional beneficiaries “to develop a Pandemic notwithstanding, million in total and another 496 The Overseas Workers Office 6 to Labor Secretary sustainable livelihood that will Bello said that the department beneficiaries from Umingan also Welfare Administration Silvestre Bello III. provide stable means of income will continuously provide received their wage amounting in Region 1 said that as of The livelihood assistance to the families of the poor assistance to workers throughout to P2.8 million. November 28, a total of 11,261 for the marginalized fishermen fishermen.” the country through DOLE’s Aside from wages of OFWs in the region have received was for the purchase of engines He said the beneficiaries were various financial, livelihood emergency employment the financial aid amounting to to upgrade their bancas into thankful for the government’s and emergency employment beneficiaries, Bello also P112 million under the AKAP motorized fishing vessels. help. “They appreciate the big programs. personally handed over program. –Althea Louise D. Majan “For years, fishermen in helping hand of DOLE,” he the municipality have toiled added. hard to catch fish for their daily Last year, DOLE provided sustenance. Without motorized the beneficiaries with fishing fishing boats, they could not nets, plywoods, and paints for cope with the rising cost of living the repair of their fishing boats. under present times,” Bello said. workers receive salaries by Chester Carlo M. Trinidad A total amount of P3,442,200 was awarded to beneficiaries A TOTAL of P10,326,600 worth of from Tuguegarao City and the salaries was awarded by the labor municipalities of Solana, Iguig, department to 1,800 emergency Tuao, Enrile, and Penablanca. employment beneficiaries in In his speech, Secretary Bello Cagayan. highlighted the importance of Informal sector workers who unity and camaraderie in ensuring were employed for 14 days under the program’s success. Photo by DOLE-RO 2 the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa The beneficiaries thanked the Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced labor department for providing PAYOUT. Secretary Silvestre Bello III (second from left), Governor Manuel Mamba (left), and DOLE Regional Office No. 2 Director, Atty. Evelyn Workers (TUPAD) program assistance especially in a time of Ramos (third from left) lead the awarding of salaries to TUPAD beneficiaries at the Cagayan Provincial Capitol Gym on November 17. received their salaries during a crisis. series of payouts on November Meanwhile, two more payouts 17-19. were held in Lal-lo, Cagayan, with Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello some 400 beneficiaries receiving III led the first day of the awarding their salaries on November 18 and Livelihood for locals in of salaries, along with city and an additional 800 beneficiaries provincial officials at the Cagayan receiving theirs on November 19. conflict-ridden areas Provincial Capitol Gym. THE labor department is part of DOLE’s role in the rice wine production project Thousands of North continues to do its share in implementation of the socio- worth P459,707 for the 52 the country’s desire to meet economic development and members of the Amduntog Rice Mindanao studes find work lasting peace especially in the confidence-building measures Wine Producers Association THOUSANDS of students in High School said that she would countryside. to end the local conflict. in Asipulo, Ifugao; and farm Northern Mindanao were given buy a cellular phone from her SPES Early this month the DOLE-CAR Regional implements amounting to the opportunity to earn when salary to help in her online learning. they were enlisted with the labor She said she was grateful to DOLE department assisted individuals Director Exequiel Ronie P489,960 for the Ankileng department’s Special Program for being given the chance to earn and marginalized groups in areas Guzman said his office released Rumang-ayan Organization of for the Employment of Students since her parents couldn’t afford to still believed to be infiltrated by the assistance in the form of Barangay Ankileng, Sagada. (SPES). buy her a cellphone. communist insurgents. grants through the various local The department released In a report to Labor Secretary Meanwhile, 200 students in The Department of Labor government units (LGUs). three projects in Kalinga for the Silvestre Bello III, the Department Misamis Occidental got their SPES and Employment (DOLE) Among the approved projects Apatan Farmers Indigenous of Labor and Employment Regional pay amounting to P9,559 each for a released around P3.084 million of the beneficiaries include the Association in Barangay Apatan Office 10 has provided temporary work period of 20 days. worth of livelihood assistance Layer Egg Production amounting in Pinukpuk, the Tanglag employment to 6,000 students One of the beneficiaries is in the Cordillera Administrative to P323,081.00 of Sitio Dilong in Community Organization, in Cagayan de Oro City and 200 Ronald Serino, a 21-year-old self- Region (CAR) to help alleviate Barangay Tubo in Abra with 51 and Unity for Development of students in Misamis Occidental. supporting Human Resource the living condition of the members; Rice Mill project with Barangay Tanglag, Lubuagan. In Cagayan de Oro, the city Management student at Governor added an innovation to the SPES Alfonso Tan College in Tangub people in the area. funding of P430,234.00 for the The first two post-harvest program when it enlisted the City. Out of his SPES pay Serino A member of the Poverty Upper Atok Upland Farmers facilities projects amounted to students to help in a local organic said he was able to pay student Reduction, Livelihood and Association in Barangay P400,004.50 and P504, 880.00 farming project. lodging rent and buy a large supply Employment Cluster of the Atok, Flora in Apayao with 89 respectively. The individual Public Employment Services of groceries for his family. Regional Task Force to End Local members; and the establishment recipient in Barangay Dupag Office-CDO Manager Kathleen Kate DOLE paid each student Communist Armed Conflict of a Bakery which costs P456,360 in Lubuagan will undertake Sorilla said that the redesigning P3,823.06 or 40 percent of its share, (ELCAC), DOLE extended for the Malaganay-Layugan a Duck Raising Project with of the program is part of Cagayan while the employers paid P5,735.40 assistance to individuals and Organization in Barangay P20,000 funding support. de Oro Mayor Oscar Moreno's or the remaining 60 percent. – organizations in the region. Malayugan in Flora, Apayao –DOLE-CAR advocacy on food literacy and Glenford C. Labial (DOLE-X)/ Labor Secretary Silvestre with 100 members. environmental education. Lorraine M. Roa (DOLE-X Mis. Occ. Bello III said the assistance The DOLE aid included a Stephanie Ipulan, a 17-year old PFO) eleventh-grader at Iponan National

PHILIPPINE LABOR @laborandemployment • THE GOOD NEWS • DOLE lends hand in preserving Maranao culture IT MAY seem amazing that that showcases the traditional the Department of Labor and handloom weaving device Employment (DOLE) the used to create blankets and also country’s patron of labor, serves as a hub for the younger sometimes provide assistance to generations to appreciate and other aspects of public service learn this intricate and beautiful like culture and the arts. handcrafting technique. As an offshoot of its mandate Governor Imelda ‘Angging’ to improve employment and Quibranza-Dimaporo has been livelihood for Filipinos DOLE an advocate of the preservation does indeed provide help to of traditional Maranao weaving other aspects of Philippine life which is her province’s unique other than labor in an adjunct cultural heritage. Gov. Angging manner. aims to collaborate with the Recently the labor department country’s fashion designers awarded over half a million pesos to develop and enhance the worth of livelihood assistance to techniques of ISLAHIYYAH seven grassroots groups in Lanao members in designing products del Norte to support the income especially those that can compete Photo by PIO-PGLDN and PAWFED earning abilities of its women in the global market and help beneficiaries and at the same grow their business. KEEPING THE TRADITION ALIVE. PAWFED members wear their traditional Maranao Clothing, which is called Landap, during the turnover time preserving the rich cultural Other beneficiaries were of DOLE Northern Mindanao’s livelihood assistance worth P500k to seven Lanao del Norte women-associations at the Pasalubong Center, heritage of Maranao weaving. Lampakanay Handicraft Sagadan, Tubod, Lanao del Norte. In a report to Labor Secretary Association, which accepted Silvestre Bello III, DOLE Regional one unit of welding machine, Office 10 (DOLE-10) through electric driller, and grinder; its Lanao del Norte Provincial and Bulawanong Kababaihan Construction of OFW hospital Field Office, acted on a request sa Pacita (BUKAPA); United from the province of Lanao del Fisherfolks and Farmers Norte to provide the necessary Association (UNIFAFA); Balo-i equipment for the improvement Peanut Processors; Lanao on schedule says Sec. Bebot and sustainability of the women- Norte Processors Federation LABOR Secretary Silvestre Bello led the signing of the Once completed, the beneficiaries’ livelihood projects. (LANPROF); and Paglingkawas Bello III said construction usufruct agreement between hospital will provide free Lanao del Norte Provincial Women Federation (PAWFED), of the hospital for overseas the Provincial Government of medical services to the Field Office Chief Remegio D. which were each given desktop Filipino workers (OFWs) in Pampanga and DOLE for the country’s modern-day heroes, Cabañog said the livelihood and laptop computer with Pampanga remains on track for construction of the first-ever Bello said. assistance was funded printer. through the DOLE Integrated Before the DOLE assistance, completion next year despite OFW hospital in the country "It will render free services Livelihood Program (DILP) the women-beneficiaries were the COVID-19 pandemic. in Barangay Sindalan, San when OFWs are securing with the Paglingkawas Women unemployed and relied mostly Bello said the recent Fernando, Pampanga. medical certificates covering Federation (PAWFED) as the on the income of the seasonal lockdowns and health Signing for DOLE was laboratory exams and other Accredited Co-Partner (ACP). work of their husbands as protocols have caused delays Bello while for the Pampanga requirements for their overseas One of the beneficiaries, fishermen and carpenters. in the project but construction Provincial Government was deployment," Bello explained. the ISLAHIYYAH Association Through the assistance, the stays on schedule. Governor Lilia Pineda. Earlier, it was agreed Pagcor from the Municipality of Poona beneficiaries will now have a "There were stoppages "I hope we can do our best will donate P200 million for Piagapo, received a traditional stable and regular income that in construction works but to complete this wonderful the acquisition and installation blanket weaving loom and can afford them their family’s the hospital for our migrant project earlier. The sooner it of equipment and facilities for sewing machine with threads. daily needs and the school workers would still be finished is finished, the sooner we can the hospital while Bloomberry The association continuously expenses of their children. next year," Bello explained. help our OFWs," Bello added. Cultural Foundation will practice the Maranao traditional Aside from alleviating them Bello said President Rodrigo Aside from the Pampanga shoulder the construction cost. method of weaving, which is from poverty, the community Duterte also hopes the hospital Provincial Government and Witnessing the signing of the famous for its sophistication and will also benefit from the ornate designs and colors. They economic boost, as well as the becomes operational in 2021 so DOLE, also involved in the agreement were Malacanang are also actively handing down preservation of their weaving it can start serving OFWs. project are the Department Spokesperson , the tradition to the younger culture. –Criste O. Perfecto with Originally set for of Health (DoH), Philippine OWWA Administrator Hans generation. additional reports from Joseph completion in April next year, Amusement and Gaming Leo Cacdac, Pagcor chairperson There is a designated place Nathan Fabrega and PIO-PG LDN/ the hospital can still be finished Corporation (Pagcor), and Andrea Domingo, and DOH inside the Pasalubong Center DOLE-X LDN PFO by December 2021, builders of the Bloomberry Cultural Undersecretary Lilibeth David. in Tubod, Lanao del Norte the project assured. Foundation. Polio victim finds succor in gov’t internship program THE labor department’s Administration degree from But I always pray and never Government Internship the University of Saint Louis lose hope because I believe in Program (GIP) has proven Tuguegarao, Sabado applied what I am doing,” Sabado said. that it provides equal training for the internship program. With his goal clear, Sabado opportunities to those who He was assigned at Brgy. wants to be an inspiration to aspire to become government Alimannao, Penablanca as other PWDs. He believes that employees. Barangay Administrative Clerk. their condition can be used for Greg Sabado, a GIP His tasks included encoding greater things and that disability beneficiary, suffered from polio of barangay clearances and is never a hindrance as long as when he was an infant, resulting certificates, travel passes, and you remain determined. in his imperfectly functioning other related undertakings. His GIP provides opportunities hands and legs. performance was rated very for young workers to serve in Though initially challenged, satisfactory and was at par with government agencies, projects, Photo by DOLE-RO 2 his condition never stopped that of other staff. and programs at the national him from pursuing his dreams. “People often doubt what I and local levels. –Riza R. Tariga GIP TRAINEE. Proving that disability is not a hindrance to achieve one’s goals, Sabado (left) After graduating with a can do and underestimate my (DOLE Regional Office No. 2) is being presented his official documents as a trainee under the Government Internship Bachelor of Science in Business capacity to accomplish things. Program.