ECC benefits for collapsed supermarket workers P6 STATE-OF-THE-ART HOSPITAL FOR OFWS THE P550-million hospital for OFWs that will rise in San Fernando, Pampanga will have state-of-the-art facilities, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said during the project’s groundbreaking ceremony held on Labor Day. P2
Expanded maternity leave in full effect
CONSISTENT with his commitment to push for the immediate implementation of the expanded maternity leave law, Secretary Silvestre Bello III led the signing on Labor Day in San Fernando, Pampanga the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act 11210, along with Civil Service Chairperson Alicia Dela Rosa Bala and Social Security System President and CEO Aurora Ignacio. The IRR was finished in about 60 days or way ahead of the 90 days maximum prescribed period for crafting the guidelines of Implementing Rules and P2
Fresh grad photo by Jomar Lagmay, IPS among 700+ DOLE-OFW HOSPITAL GROUNDBREAKING. Former President and House Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (2nd from right) is joined by Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III (3rd from left), Health Secretary Francisco Duque, Pampanga Governor Lilia Pineda, PAGCOR CEO Andrea Domingo, and a HOTS in Bicol representative from Home Development Mutual Development Fund (HDMF) and Bloomberry Resorts and Hotels Company in the groundbreaking of the DOLE-OFW Hospital and Diagnostic Center during the Labor Day celebration on May 1, at the PEO Compound, Barangay Sindalan, San Fernando, P8 Pampanga.
photo photo by by Jomar KMC Lagmay,MAG Group IPS photo by POLO Vancouver photo by Dodong Echavez, IPS photo by Dodong Echavez, IPS NEWS OVERSEAS AGENCIES GOOD NEWS
Gov’t limits entry Financial literacy P1M at stake for best Dressmaker, launched in POLO housewives, of foreign workers seafarers biz plan Kabuhayan winners P3 Vancouver P5 P6 P8 2 May 2019 Expanded maternity leave
IRR signed . . . from P1
Regulations of the 105-Day civil status, employment status, Expanded Maternity Leave and the legitimacy of her child. (EML) Law. The CSC, the DOLE, the SSS, Secretary Bello reiterated and the Gender Ombud of the that the law will not Commission on Human Rights disadvantage the female in consultation with trade workers in terms of company unions, labor organizations, hiring, allaying apprehensions and employers’ representatives that it will discourage shall, within one month after photo by Jomar Lagmay, IPS employers from recruiting the publication of IRR, conduct women jobseekers. a review of the maternity leave IRR FOR EXPANDED MATERNITY LEAVE LAW. Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III (2nd from right-seated), Civil Service Commission (CSC) Chairperson Alicia Dela Rosa-Bala, SSS President and CEO Aurora Ignacio show the signed Implementing Rules and Regulation (IRR) for the 105-Day Expanded Maternity Leave “The hiring of workers, benefits of female workers in Law during the Labor Day celebration at the Kingsborough International Convention Center in San Fernando, Pampanga. Witnessing the signing ceremony first and foremost, is based on the public and private sector. are Senator Pia Cayetano, Congresswoman Bernadette Herrera-Dy, Justice Undersecretary Emmie Aglipay-Villar, DOLE Undersecretary Ana Dione, Assistant competence and integrity, not Thereafter, they shall include Secretary Joji Aragon, and other government officials. on gender, Secretary Bello said. maternity leave benefits in their The labor chief also cited the validation report conducted Magna Carta for Women which every four years for the SSS and Bello cites employers for job fair success protects them from workplace the DOLE and every three years discrimination. for the CSC, or more frequently MORE than 25,000 jobseekers Cashier. Bello assured that DOLE as may be necessary, to meet came very close to getting Some of the jobseekers were will also strictly enforce at the needs of pregnant women employed on Labor Day in the referred to TESDA for skills all times the general labor and newly-born infants, and massive jobs and business fair training (1,543), to livelihood standards which would improve their welfare. held in 31 sites nationwide. assistance provided by DOLE include the compliance to the Whoever fails or refuses to Labor Secretary Silvestre (1,604), to DTI for business expanded maternity leave law. comply with the provisions Bello III expressed gratitude to opportunity (2,053), and to The 105-Day Expanded of R.A. No. 11210 shall be employers who made available other participating government Maternity Leave Law covers the punished by a fine of not less more than 204,000 local and agencies such as NBI, SSS, female workers in government than 20 thousand pesos nor overseas jobs, including PRC, OWWA, NRCO, PRC, and the private sector, including more than 200 thousand pesos, vacancies in various positions PhilHealth, POEA, and NCDA- those in the informal economy, and imprisonment of not less in government agencies. PWD (2,143). voluntary contributors to the than six years and one day nor “We are grateful to our Bello encouraged jobseekers Social Security System, and more than 12 years or both. employers who participated. of all ages to take advantage of photo by ALDM, IPS national athletes, regardless of –Gerry S. Rubio Their involvement made the the massive job and business job fair massive and a big opportunities offered during HIRED-ON-THE-SPOT. “Masaya po dahil success,” Bello said. “We are job fairs. magiging magkasama kami sa trabaho, mas equally thankful to our partner In one instance, an applicant okay lalo na at bagong kasal kami at bubuo na agencies in the TNK and BBB who found employment at the ng pamilya. Maganda rin po na hindi na naming kailangan lumayo at dito lang sa aming lugar ay programs for the successful main job fair site was Marianne mayroon ng trabaho,” said newlyweds Maybelyn undertaking,” he added. Javier, a 40-year old jobseeker and Jerry Evangelista, who were hired-on-the-spot The Bureau of Local who qualified both as a factory during the Labor Day job fair in Pampanga. Employment said the one- worker for a local company and day fair drew a total of 35,242 as a nail technician for Brunei. kasal kami at bubuo na ng applicants. Of those applicants Also among those who pamilya. Maganda rin po na who qualified to the different immediately found employment hindi na naming kailangan job vacancies, 4,314 were were newlyweds Maybelyn lumayo at dito lang sa aming immediately hired, while 21,593 and Jerry Evangelista. They lugar ay mayroon ng trabaho,” were considered hired, but were both hired by Superl said the couple. still need to submit additional Philippines, Inc. as factory Another jobseeker who was or lacking requirements, or workers. The couple found out hired-on-the-spot was Mia may need to undergo further about the job fair through their Joanna Javier, a senior high interviews, trade test or neighbor. On April 30, after school graduate. Also hired as examination. their wedding ceremony at a factory worker, Javier said The top five occupations with the municipal hall, the couple that she wanted to work after photo by Jomar Lagmay, IPS the most number of jobseekers submitted their resumes and finishing senior high school to who were Hired-on-the-Spot pre-registered to the job fair. help her family and save money DOLE SECRETARY WITH SPES BENEFICIARIES. Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III greets hundreds of were Production Worker, “Masaya po dahil magiging for her college education. beneficiaries of Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) in the province of Pampanga during –Althea Louise D. Majan the Labor Day celebration on May 1, at Kingsborough International Convention Center in San Fernando, Service Crew, Assembler, magkasama kami sa trabaho, Pampanga. Production Operator, and mas okay lalo na at bagong State-of-the-art hospital for OFWs
THE P550-million hospital property in Barangay Sindalan dependents. the hospital is being finalized for OFWs that will rise in San donated by the provincial “This hospital is in “This hospital is in to signal the start of its Fernando, Pampanga will government of Pampanga. recognition of the recognition of the valuable construction. have state-of-the-art facilities, The building cost, valuable contribution contribution of our modern- “The details are not yet final Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello estimated at P400 million, will day heroes, the overseas and even the bed capacity, the III said during the project’s be shouldered by Bloomberry of our modern-day Filipino workers, in the level of medical care, such groundbreaking ceremony Cultural Foundation Inc. heroes, the overseas growth of our economy. as primary, secondary and held on Labor Day. The hospital is expected to Filipino workers, in the This will serve as among tertiary, the plantilla staffing He added that the be completed in 18 months. the legacies that President and the budget, but we hope to acquisition and installation Once operational, it will be growth of our economy. Duterte can leave behind for construct the hospital within of the facilities for the first- managed by the Department This will serve as our OFWs,” Bello said. one and a half year, within ever DOLE-OFW hospital of Health. among the legacies OWWA Administrator the Duterte Administration,” and diagnostics center will Bello said the hospital Hans Leo Cacdac said Cacdac said. be financed by a P150-million will provide the medical that President Duterte a memorandum of But he added that donation from the Philippine needs and services, as well can leave behind for understanding among Bloomberry officials are “now Amusement and Gaming as subsidy programs of the ” concerned government discussing these matters with Corporation (PAGCOR). Overseas Workers Welfare our OFWs. agencies and other their engineers and architects The hospital will be Administration (OWWA) for – Secretary Bello stakeholders for the to commence the project.” constructed on a two-hectare OFWs, their families, and construction and operation of –Paul R. Ang
dole.gov.ph PHILIPPINE LABOR
October-December 2017 May 2019 3 Gov’t limits entry of foreign workers
THE government has set stricter measures on the Bureau of Immigration (BI), only if the nature of the entry of foreign nationals who wish to work in the job falls in the 14 permissible areas of work mostly country under joint inter-agency guidelines issued in sports, entertainment, and specialization. on Labor Day. If the intention is to work for more than Signed by Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello six months, foreigners must apply for an alien III, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra, BIR employment permit (AEP) to the DOLE, who will Commissioner Caesar Dulay, and BI Commissioner verify whether the jobs sought by foreigners could Jaime Morente, the inter-agency guidelines limit not be performed by Filipinos. to a non-renewable maximum of six months the Also, a special temporary permit can be issued Special Working Permit issued to foreign nationals by the Professional Regulations Commission to a in 14 sectors, with all other workers not included foreign professional to practice in the Philippines in the list to be required to secure an Alien for a limited period of time, which is subjected to Employment Permit. the limitations and conditions provided for by law. The joint guidelines will help ensure that local DOLE and BI will also share their data reports jobs which can be done by Filipino workers are not on the permits they issued for a harmonized given to foreign nationals. monitoring and documentation of foreign workers. “The joint guidelines will not only establish Meanwhile, Bello said that DOLE is a joint monitoring system on the entry of foreign strengthening its enforcement mechanism through workers but also assure Filipino workers of inspections at workplace levels to check on the preferential treatment in the local labor market illegals, as well as validate the working permits of over foreign nationals,” Bello said. foreign workers, most of whom are working in the Among the provisions of the guidelines include booming Philippines online gaming industry. securing a tax identification number (TIN) from the The labor chief also said that DOLE is in close Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) before a foreign coordination with Philippine Amusement and worker can be issued by appropriate employment Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to conduct a permit to ensure proper payment of taxes under thorough study on the online gaming industry to the law. empower and expand the portion of the Filipino Foreigners who wish to engage in gainful workers in the said key industry sector. –Abegail employment in the Philippines for three to six V. De Vega months may apply for a special work permit to the
Technical education Workers’ products available online for returning OFWs LABOR DAY FOR INFORMAL SECTOR. DOLE Undersecretary Ana Dione delivers the message of Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III during the celebration of Labor Day for Informal Sector with the theme “Tungo sa Matatag at Masaganang strengthened Pagnenegosyo” led by Bureau of Workers with Special Concerns (BWSC) Director Karina Perida-Trayvilla, together with the National Anti-Poverty Commission and FILIPINO workers returning who are willing to participate International Labour Organization officials held on May 6, at the Parañaque City Hall. home, including their in the undertaking. families, can look forward It also states that TESDA to a more welfare-focused shall coordinate and provide reintegration with the the two concerned agencies launching of enhanced skills with an updated list of training, technical education, identified programs and assessment and certification, schedules of its activities to be and entrepreneurial assistance. undertaken. The initiative, which These include skills will run for the next two training, assessment and years is provided for in the certification, Training for agreement signed by Labor Work Scholarship Program photo by Jomar Lagmay, IPS Secretary Silvestre Bello III (TWSP), Special Training for with Technical Education and Employment Program (STEP), Skills Development Authority Onsite Assessment Program THE labor department is Ana Dione, representing Benavidez said the ultimate (TESDA) Director General (OAP), and other TESDA- offering marketing assistance to Secretary Silvestre Bello agenda of the labor department Isidro Lapeña, and Trade and related initiatives. informal sector workers through III; Undersecretary Ciriaco is to transition the informal Industry Secretary Ramon Moreover, the agency is an online platform to enable Lagunzad III; Assistant Secretary workers into the formal Lopez, during this year’s Labor tasked to ensure the provision them and micro-entrepreneurs Benjo Santos Benavidez; economy. He added this is the Day celebration in Pampanga. of continuing support and to sell and promote their BWSC Director Ma. Karina reason why the department has products in the internet. Perida-Trayvilla; and other envisioned the online marketing “This undertaking is a assistance to the availees and in Called DOLE Livelihood officials joined stakeholders platform to help the livelihood continuing effort to strengthen maintaining a database of those Beneficiaries Products Showcase and various informal sector beneficiaries in selling their the government’s reintegration who have either participated in (DLBPS), the free online and livelihood groups, such products. programs and make it more the skills training, assessment market platform developed as construction workers, “We want you to have a comprehensive to the needs of and certification, or have and managed by the Bureau of kasambahay associations, sustainable livelihood. This our returning OFWs and their been referred to local job Workers with Special Concerns micro-entrepreneurs, and is one of the tools we have families,” said Bello. opportunities. (BWSC), aims to enhance tricycle drivers groups during developed to help you sell your Under the agreement, the The DTI, on the other the selling and marketing the launching of the online products,” Benavidez told the Overseas Workers Welfare hand, shall provide its partner capabilities of the beneficiaries of platform. workers. Administration (OWWA) shall agencies with an updated list the DOLE Integrated Livelihood “We recognize the unique The online platform was coordinate and provide the DTI of identified programs and Program (DILP). contribution of workers in the unveiled as one of the highlights and TESDA a list of willing and schedules of its activities, In order to help improve their informal sector in the country. of the celebration of labor day able returning OFWs together such as Negosyo seminars and products and services, a product We want to improve their for informal workers with the with their skills profile and Pondo para sa Pagbabago at review is also featured in the status of living, strengthen their theme “Tungo sa Matatag at online platform where buyers or enterprises and livelihood, as Masaganang Pagnenegosyo,” needed training; refer those Pag-asenso (P3) program; and customers can provide feedback well as to protect their rights held at the Paranaque City Hall, who will undergo training, facilitate the entrepreneurship or rate the marketed products. as workers,” Bello said in his Paranaque City on May 6. –Paul assessment, certification, and training of the availees. Labor Undersecretary message read by Dione. R. Ang job referrals; and assist those –Teephanie D. Laderas
PHILIPPINE LABOR @laborandemployment 4 May 2019
NLRC resolves 48k cases, “The NLRC’s performance on disposition of cases awards P9.4B to 60k workers can be attributed to our THE National Labor Relations prescribed process cycle time of disposition of cases was instituted reforms such as the Commission resolved 48,770 case disposition. attributed to the instituted cases, with 99 percent disposition Based on the report of the reforms at the NLRC, such as implementation of the “First- rate, in 2018 through the Project Project SpeED Manager, the the implementation of the “First- Speedy and Efficient Delivery NLRC resolved 48,770 cases out In-First-Out Policy” (FIFO), a In-First-Out Policy,” continuing of Labor Justice (SpeED) of of 49,455 cases handled, and systematic approach on ageing amendment of the NLRC Rules the Department of Labor and facilitated monetary benefits and quota of cases; continuing Employment. amounting to a total of P9.436 amendment of the NLRC Rules of Procedure and Execution of Project SPEED was designed billion, benefitting 60,015 workers of Procedure and Execution of to unclog the dockets of the DOLE in 2018. Judgment; improvement of case Judgment, improvement of case offices and agencies involved in “Our concerted effort made management system; capacity- case handling. this accomplishment in the building for Commissioners, management system, capacity- Specifically, the program aims DOLE’s 2018 Project SpeED Labor Arbiters, and other building, and monitoring of to dispose cases filed before the possible. I would like to thank all personnel; and continuous concerned offices and agencies the men and women of the NLRC monitoring of performance and performance and Code of of the Department, such as for their valuable contribution,” Code of Conduct. the Bureau of Labor Relations, NLRC Chairman Gerardo The NLRC, an attached Conduct. Our concerted efforts Bureau of Working Conditions, Nograles said. agency of the DOLE, performs Employees Compensation The NLRC contributed 61 quasi-judicial functions primarily made this accomplishment Commission, Legal Service, percent of the total cases resolved to resolve labor and management possible, and I thank the men National Conciliation and by all participating agencies disputes involving both local Mediation Board, National Labor in the DOLE’s Project SpeED, and overseas workers through and women of Relations Commission, and followed by BWC with 33 percent compulsory arbitration and Philippine Overseas Employment and POEA with 4 percent. alternative modes of dispute the NLRC for Administration, within the The performance on resolution. –PPPerez their valuable contribution.” New autopsy on Dayag sought Gerardo C. Nograles Chairman THE labor department has second autopsy will help give over the financial assistance National Labor Relations requested the National Bureau her family the peace of mind amounting to P120k from the Commission of Investigation to conduct that they deserve. Equally Overseas Workers Welfare an autopsy on the remains of important, the procedure may Administration and P200k from Filipino worker Constancia provide us a clearer view of the various recruitment agencies Dayag who was found dead circumstances surrounding her and associations. in her room at her employer’s death,” Ebarle said. On the instruction of residence in Kuwait on May 14. A balik-manggagawa who Labor Secretary Silvestre Acting Labor Secretary served the same employer for Bello III, OWWA will also Renato Ebarle said the request three years, Dayag, 47, was to fly provide livelihood package was made pursuant to the desire home on May 16. She left behind to Constancia’s family and of her family for a conclusive two sons and a daughter. scholarship assistance to one of determination of the cause of Ebarle met with Dayag’s her children. –Althea Louise D. Dayag’s death. daughter, Lovely Jane, at Majan “At the very least, the the DOLE office and handed
Executive Editor | RAUL M. FRANCIA Editor-in-Chief | GERRY S. RUBIO SOT to guarantee workers’ Issue Editor | ALTHEA LOUISE D. MAJAN Senior Writers | CORAZON C. GONZALES | TEEPHANIE D. LADERAS ABEGAIL V. DE VEGA | PETER PAUL R. ANG constitutional right – Bello Contributing Writers | HERSHEY AQUINO, NCR | PATRICK RILLORTA, CAR ARLY STA. ANA-VALDEZ, RO1 | REGINALD ESTIOCO, RO2 JELYN ABELLA, RO3 | FRANZ RAYMOND AQUINO, RO4-A CLOSER to becoming a law, the Security Constitutionally-guaranteed right to security EMMANUEL ANTONIO PORTUGAL, RO4-B | JOHANA VI GASGA, RO5 of Tenure bill recently passed by the Senate of tenure, reiterates the prohibition on labor- NIEZEL ANEN SABRIDO, RO6 | LUCHEL TANIZA, RO7 will enhance the enjoyment of workers’ only contracting, and clarifies ambiguities in NORMA RAE COSTIMIANO, RO8 | KAREN CLAIRE GRAFIA, RO9 constitutional rights to job security, the labor existing laws that have allowed employers to MILDRED DABLIO, RO10 | EDUARDO MONREAL, RO11 CHRISTOPHER GAMBOA, RO12 | OLGA VIRGINIA DEMATA, CARAGA department said. tiptoe around the ban.” “It won’t take long before this SOT bill DOLE’S worker’s regularization drive took Creative Artists | VERONICA C. CASIL | RAMJAE VON J. ESCOBER becomes a law. And we are grateful to our off in 2016 with its issuance of Department Photographers | JOMAR S. LAGMAY | ALEJANDRO P. ECHAVEZ senators for taking one giant step to end ‘Endo’ Order No. 174 Series of 2017, or the Rules Circulation Manager | GIRLIE MARLYN E. ARCE and guarantee the workers’ statutory right to Implementing Articles 106 to 109 of the Labor Circulation Assistants | MADELYN D. DOMETITA | RANDY F. FERNANDEZ security of tenure,” Labor Secretary Silvestre Code, As Amended. It has set the groundwork Bello III said. for the regularization of about half a The PHILIPPINE LABOR is the official publication of the The SOT is one of DOLE’s priority legislative million workers already through voluntary Department of Labor and Employment measures that has been certified as urgent by regularization and inspection. with editorial office at the the President. It aims to amend the Labor Code The department has likewise deployed Information and Publication Service 1st Floor, OPLE Building, Intramuros, Manila. on the prohibition of labor-only contracting volunteer inspectors coming from its social and other provisions that allow contracting partners as one of the strategies to assess arrangements. around 900,000 establishments’ compliance Bello has earlier enjoined concerned DOLE with general labor standards and occupational offices and officials to provide technical safety and health. This is aside from assistance as the Senate hammers out its beefing up of its labor laws compliance staff Readers’ queries, comments, and suggestions are welcome. Mail or fax them in, or call us version of the measure. complement through hiring and creation of at telephone numbers 527-3000 loc. 620, 621, 622, Senate Bill No. 1826 is authored and labor inspector plantilla positions to ensure 623, 625, 626, 627. Our fax number is 527-3446. sponsored by Senator Joel Villanueva. the strict enforcement of labor laws, rules, and You may also visit our website: According to the Senator, the bill “upholds the regulations. –Gerry S. Rubio www.dole.gov.ph; or e-mail us at [email protected].
dole.gov.ph PHILIPPINE LABOR
October-December 2017 May 2019 • OVERSEAS • 5 POLO Oman fetes outstanding OFWs, employers
MUSCAT, SULTANATE OF Desiatco (Service Excellence Ann Barrera as Outstanding Consul Bernadette Mendoza, excellence. OMAN – Eight overseas Award), Liza Aviar (Successful Foreign Recruitment Agency Ambassador Narciso Castañeda The event was spearheaded Filipino workers and five Entrepreneurship Award), Ryan Secretary. said that the Oman OFW by the POLO, FILCOSOC, and employers were honored by Aguidera (Heroes Award), Five judges conducted the Awards was symbolic and apt as the 2019 Oman OFW Awards the Philippine Overseas Labor Jonas Dupo (Excellence in screening and final selection of it was an occasion to recognize Committee (OOAC) chaired Office in Muscat, Oman, for Leadership Award-Skilled the 50 nominations under 13 the contribution of the OFWs in by Marilyn Alvarez, together their significant contributions to Worker Category), and Perla different categories received by the Sultanate, as well as those of with the seven other winners the OFW community during the Malabanan (Excellence in the Committee. Omanis and other expatriates and representatives of the 2018 2019 Oman OFW Awards. Leadership Award-Domestic In his message, which was who were instrumental in Oman OFW Awards. –POLO POLO Oman, in partnership Worker Category). read by First Secretary and enabling the OFWs to achieve Oman with the Filipino Community Employers and foreign Social Club (FILCOSOC) recruitment agencies were also spearheaded the event as part recognized. of the Labor Day celebration in Among those hailed the Sultanate on May 31 at Hotel as winners were OCTAL Muscat Holiday. SAOC FZC as Outstanding Over 250 Filipinos attended Employer-Skilled Worker the awarding ceremony. Category, Faiza Mohammed Norman Gutierrez and as Outstanding Employer- Nuripa Ismael emerged as Domestic Worker Category, Outstanding OFWs under the Al Wateen International Skilled Worker Category and Manpower as Outstanding Domestic Worker Category, Foreign Recruitment Agency- respectively. Skilled Worker Category, photo by POLO Oman Sadji Dantis and his family, Abu Aselah Labour Provision meanwhile, received the Model as Outstanding Foreign OUTSTANDING OFWS. OFWs Norman Gutierrez (4th from left), Nuripa Ismael (5th from left), and Sadji Dantis (9th from left) and his family OFW Family Award. Recruitment Agency-Domestic receive their award as Outstanding OFWs during the 2019 Oman OFW Awards. Also gracing the event are Labor Attache Ponciano Ligutom, Other winners were Rodrigo Worker Category, and Mary First Secretary and Consul Bernadette Mendoza, Welfare Officer Marilou Sumalinog, 2019 OOAC Chair Marilyn Alvarez, and FILCOSOC Chairperson Engr. Rolando Leaño. UK OFWs in pastry making Financial literacy launched in POLO Vancouver CANADA – A financial literacy Pascua, a former caregiver who program, which is implemented battled with cancer, but was able by the Overseas Workers Welfare to establish her own daycare in Administration (OWWA) in Edmonton, Alberta through her coordination with the Bangko hard work and perseverance. Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and Her talk focused on how her Banco de Oro Foundation triumphs and struggles showed (BDOF), was launched by the the character and strength of Philippine Overseas Labor Filipino workers. Office in Vancouver during the To formally conclude the 2019 Labor Day and OWWA’s event, Labor Attaché Margarita 37th Anniversary at Alt Hotel, Eugenia Fabon Victorina read Calgary, Alberta. the Labor Day Message of The program, which is Secretary Silvestre Bello III photo by POLO OWWA-London called “Pinansyal na Talino at which recognized the hard Kaalaman (PiTaKa),” aims to work and sacrifices of Filipino SKILLS ENHANCEMENT TRAINING FOR OFWS. Twenty-three OFWs successfully finish a short course on cake decoration class, which is part integrate finance and investment workers and emphasized the of the 2019 Skills Enhancement Training Program by the POLO-OWWA in London. Labor Attaché Amuerfina Reyes graces the culminating topics in OFWs’ pre-departure commitment of the DOLE to activity of the program. and post arrival seminars. safeguard their rights and Following this, an inspiring welfare. –Raya Mae Manalo LONDON – Gaining new skills held from March 17 to May 26, The awardees will compete in talk was delivered by Marvi while on-site, 23 overseas Filipino 2019 at the Migrant Workers the Skills Olympics in celebration workers in the United Kingdom and Other Overseas Filipinos of the Migrant Workers’ Day. successfully finished a short Resource Center, form part of Among the categories in the course on cake decoration class, the ladderized program being Skills Olympics are Bartending, which is part of the 2019 Skills developed by a team of chefs Barista, Cake Decorating (sugar Enhancement Training Program and skilled cake decorators. paste), Cake Decorating (sugar by the Philippine Overseas During the graduation flower), Crochet, Cross-Stitch, Labor Office (POLO)-Overseas ceremony, the top five graduates Table Setting, Fruit Carving, Skin Workers Welfare Administration with the best output per category Care/Make-up, and Women’s (OWWA) in London. (sugar paste and sugar flower) Accessories-making. –Raya Mae The classes, which were were chosen. Manalo
POLO Korea to OFWs: photo by POLO-Vancouver
FINANCIAL LITERACY PROGRAM FOR OFWS. Filipinos in Canada witness the launching of the Report changes in alien registration financial literacy program called “Pinansyal na Talino at Kaalaman (PiTaKa)” during the 2019 Labor Day and OWWA’s 37th Anniversary Celebration at Alt Hotel, Calgary, Alberta. The program aims to integrate finance and investment topics in OFWs’ pre-departure and post arrival seminars. SOUTH KOREA – The The advisory is stipulated birth, nationality, and passport Philippine Overseas Labor under Article 35 of the details (passport number, date Office reiterated the Philippine Immigration Act of South Korea, of issuance, and expiry date). calculated starting 44 days after except for those who are already Embassy’s advisory to OFWs in said the Korea Immigration With regard to changes the issue date of a new passport. subject to fines. South Korea to report changes in Service-Ministry of Justice. in passport information, the Reporting changes in Failure to report such alien registration matters within The Immigration Act of mandatory reporting period is passport information can be changes will result in an 14 days from the date of change South Korea requires that calculated starting 30 days after made through the Hi-Korea administrative fine of less than to the Chief of the Immigration registered aliens report changes the issue date of a passport. website (www.hikorea.go.kr) 1 million Korean won under Office with jurisdiction over in alien registration matters, The period of imposing fines is without having to visit a Article 100 of the Act. –POLO their place of sojourn. including name, gender, date of jurisdictional immigration office Korea
PHILIPPINE LABOR @laborandemployment 6 • AGENCIES • May 2019 P1M at stake for best Collapsed supermarket seafarers biz plan by Althea Louise D. Majan workers get ECC benefits A P1 million start-up capital, as only, is open to active and well as training and mentoring, inactive Filipino seafarers who THE Employees Compensation by the ECC. of the Persons with Work- await seafarers with successful are 25 years old or above. Inactive Commission has provided Bello said the cash assistance Related Disability (PWRDs) business plan proposals as the seafarers may join, provided that assistance to survivors of the is part of the ECC’s Quick Program which facilitates the National Reintegration Center they have been in the Philippines collapsed supermarket in Response program that integration of PWRDs into the for OFWs (NRCO), together with for not more than five years. Porac, Pampanga that went provides immediate support to economic mainstream through the Integrated Seafarers of the Interested seafarers may to the ground following a 6.1 workers who meet work-related various interventions such Philippines (ISP), launched the submit proposals as solo, duo, or earthquake in April. contingencies. as the ECC-Quick Response 2019 NRCO-ISP Business Plan by a group consisting of three to Labor Secretary Silvestre The family members who to PWRDs, psycho-social Competition. five members. Bello III turned-over the ECC received the cash assistance counseling services, medical Now on its fifth year, the Those who wish to join the benefits to the family members on behalf of the recuperating help and assistance in the filing competition aims to provide competition, but are currently of the five workers of the Chuzon workers were Edgardo Martin of the necessary claims. seafarers and their families the on duty, must have at least supermarket who were treated for his daughter Ma. Lourdes, The program also offers help they may need to set-up one official representative at the hospital after being pulled a saleslady; Diane Gonzales for the KAGABAY Project, or their own business and turn (immediate family member) out of the ruins of the four-storey her husband Jonie, a bagger; the “Katulong at Gabay them into solutions to problems who will handle all the tasks supermarket. Remedios Corpuz for her sa Manggagawang May in their community. and activities required by the Bello, who chairs the ECC, daughter Rhinalyn, a checker, Kapansanan” which “As they say, the first step competition. was assisted by ECC Executive Lorielyn Tating for her daughter provides vocational skills is always the hardest. Crafting Submission of entries is from Director Stella Zipagan- Ivone, an office staff; and Tony and entrepreneurial training your business proposals seem May 22 to September 6, 2019. Banawis, in distributing the Facun for his daughter Desiree, and other employment or job intimidating at first, but the Out of the competition benefits during the Labor also an office staff. placement assistance, as well as Day job fair in San Fernando, government is here to help. Take entries received, 10 will be Two workers had their physical therapy, occupational Pampanga. legs amputated while the rest therapy, and provision of inspiration from our four grand shortlisted and will proceed to The workers received P10,000 suffered multiple fractures. rehabilitation appliances. –Gerry prize winners in the previous the mentoring round in October cash assistance, aside from the The workers’ assistance is S. Rubio rounds of the competition,” where they will undergo a series grocery items earlier provided part of the ECC’s Rehabilitation said NRCO OIC-Director Roel of coaching sessions to enhance Martin during the launching of their business plans. the competition at the Seafarer During the final round in Center in SM City Manila. November, the participants will The competition’s previous present their business plans to winners were William Gaspay, a panel of judges. Their entries who owns a seaweed farm in will be judged based on content, Masinloc, Zambales; Ryan Mark impact to the community, Antiquera, who operates a soft financial viability, clarity of broom business in the Bicol presentation, and drive and region; Capt. Oswald Rollorazo determination of the business and Jason Javier, who own a plan owner. ruminant feed production and “Mahirap maging marino distribution business in Tarlac; kasi malayo sa pamilya. Pero and Dr. Nelson Mejia, who sa pakikinig ko, nalaman ko na is set to operate Metro Cebu mahalaga itong programa kasi Express, an alternative mode of nagbubukas ng oportunidad transportation for Cebuanos. para sa mga marino na katulad This year’s grand winner ko. Dito pala sa ating bansa will receive P500k, while the mayroong opportunity na first runner up and eight other kumita ng pera,” said Brix finalists will receive P100k and John Cordova, a seafarer who P50k, respectively. attended the launching and photo by GSR-IPS The competition, which is wants to pursue a business in intended for start-up businesses agriculture. ASSISTANCE TO WORKERS INJURED DURING EARTHQUAKE. Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III is joined by Employees Compensation Commission (ECC) Executive Director Stella Zipagan-Banawis in distributing the ECC cash assistance to the family members of workers who were injured in the four-storey Chuzon Supermarket in Porac that collapsed following the 6.1 magnitude earthquake. The assistance, handed during the Labor Day job fair in San Fernando, Pampanga, is part of the ECC’s Quick Response program to workers who meet work-related contingencies. OWWA scholar among outstanding Bicol students
IRIGA, CAMARINES SUR – Laude with a degree in BS Food given me. They played a big Dan Mark Paniterce, a recipient Service Management from the part of who I am now,” said of the OFW Dependent Camarines Sur Polytechnic Paniterce. Scholarship Program by the Colleges. Paniterce was a recipient Overseas Workers Welfare Paniterce was a consistent of the OFW Dependent Administration, was named honor student and an active Scholarship Program for as one of the Ten Outstanding student leader in the Central children/dependents of OFW Students of Bicol 2019. Student Council. He was the from June 2015 to March 2019. Paniterce, who is a son of an Committee Director of the He was able to receive a total OFW working as an electrician Rinconada Student Leaders amount of P80,000 as financial in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Congress and joined various assistance for his baccalaureate was recognized by Ako Bicol extension activities in college. education. Party-list as one of the region’s “No words can explain how He is now taking up units for exemplary students who excel blessed I am to be one of the a Certificate Course in Teacher in leadership, scholarship, and OWWA scholars. I always bear Education at the University of services. in mind that I have to study well Saint Anthony to pursue his He graduated Magna Cum in order for me to give back all goal to be part of the academe the support that OWWA had one day. –OWWA
dole.gov.ph PHILIPPINE LABOR
October-December 2017 May 2019 • THE REGIONS • 7 P1.9-M aid for Muslim communities in Laguna Cotabato teacher gains A STORY of hope was made Now in full business operation, possible by DOLE CALABARZON the CMAI Bakery caters to their new hope via EC Regional Director Henry John immediate Muslim community Jalbuena upon approval and providing Halal bread and pastry “EMPLOYEES Compensation release of two livelihood grants products. It also intends to expand Commission is such a blessing to for Muslim communities in its market to nearby barangays us, especially to occupationally Laguna proving that no one such as Barangay III and Parian disabled workers, who thought gets left behind in the continued other than Brgy. Looc in Calamba it impossible to rise again after promotion of inclusive economic City where the bakeshop is encountering a life-threatening growth. currently located. incident,” said Merlyn Lapido, Displaced by atrocities in This was replicated by Norol Southern Philippines, many Masjid Tibag and Islamic Cultural an elementary school teacher Muslims took a leap of faith Center Association, Inc. with the of Norala Central Elementary thriving in cities across Luzon. establishment of the NMTAICCA School. They can be easily recognized Bakery. With more than 80 On November 24, 2016, by their hijab, the head covering members, the group was able to while attending the Provincial for women, and the Taqiyah, secure P742,802 for its project Boy Scouts of the Philippines the round cap for men, as they operating in Brgy. II, Calamba Jamborette, Lapido felt her mingle in huge crowd selling City, Laguna. The market seeks knees weakened and leaned goods. More often than not, they to capture five other neighboring towards a school principal who come in groups whether at work areas including Mercado de was standing right behind her. or worship in keeping with their Calamba, Liana’s Muslim She was immediately culture’s sense of community. Community, Muslim Compound brought to the hospital and It all started last year when Lazaro Subdivision, Brgy. Uno, was diagnosed to have suffered Laguna Provincial Director Guido and Brgy. Lawa. from a stroke. Recio learned about the Calamba Another DOLE beneficiary, photo by DOLE IV-A Muslim Association, Inc. (CMAI) the United Muslim Brothers She filed for Employees with the organization enthusiastic Association tapped financial Compensation (EC) disability MALONG PRODUCTION IN LAGUNA. Members of the United Muslim Brothers Association, claim at GSIS-General Santos about its livelihood proposal. A assistance from DOLE in the form who tapped assistance from the DOLE in the form of sewing machines, will pioneer the member of the association and of sewing machines to engage in making of ‘malong’ or the traditional tube skirt, in Calamba, Laguna. City Branch in April 2017. Upon a trained baker, Lim Basman, garment business. The group was evaluation, Lapido was granted dreams of putting up a bakery able to secure P589,770 to furnish Calamba, the shop will not likely corresponding barangays. Some cash benefits amounting to not only to utilize his skills but its workshop and get on with the run out of customers. Besides, of them were even assisted to raise P30,500 for EC Permanent Total also to share the same with his business. the association has the advantage the necessary counterpart fund Disability. Muslim brothers. With the DOLE Skilled UNMB members who for being the first and only that will complete the total project To help her recuperate faster, Integrated Livelihood Program, are good at sewing will pioneer manufacturer of Malong in the cost. Working hand in hand with the ECC, through Regional this dream became a reality with the making of “Malong,” the community. the local government units, these Program Focal in Region 12, the livelihood assistance worth traditional tube skirt, in Brgy. III, What is interesting about Muslim communities get to have Jerylle Marie Blanza, endorsed P596,627 covering raw materials Calamba City, Laguna. Given the these three group projects is a fair chance to stay and thrive in Lapido at Dr. Arturo Pingoy and equipment. growing number of Muslims in the support extended by their this city. –Rudyboy Sinay Medical Center, where she is currently undergoing physical therapy since February 2018. In addition, Lapido also 1.1M livelihood awarded to Cotabato cane farmers received shoulders and foot support, and arms splint as MATALAM, COTABATO – the assistance from DOLE was witnessed by DOLE-North to purchase agricultural inputs part of her rehabilitation under Two block farm associations in Integrated Livelihood Program Cotabato Field Office (DOLE- and office supplies which will the Employees’ Compensation Cotabato received P1,198,250 (DILP) of DOLE 12. NCFO) Head Marjorie Latoja be beneficial in the growth of Program (ECP). in livelihood assistance from The said livelihood grant was and DOLE-NCFO’s livelihood farm production and rise of “I suddenly felt alive again. DOLE. in partnership with the Cotabato focal Helen Mangonon. income of the association. I thought there is no hope for Gokotan Sugarcane Black Mill District Development The total amount was “Gapasalamat gid ako sang me since I no longer earn for Farming Association in Pikit, Council, Inc. as DOLE 12’s divided into the two associations daku sa DOLE sa paghatag sini the family and have to undergo Cotabato, and Nabundasan Accredited Co-Partner. with Gokotan Sugarcane Black nga kaayuhan sa amon nga expensive treatments,” Lapido Sugarcane Farmer/Laborer The release of assistance Farmers Association receiving asosasyon. Magasalig kamo said. – KDaga Association in Tulunan, was done at MDFFCI Office P599,150 and Nabundasan nga paga-ampingan gid namo Cotabato, with 106 farmers of the Cotabato Sugar Central Sugarcane Farmer/Labor ini para sa amon kaayuhan combined, were the latest Corporation, Inc. in Matalam, Association receiving P599,100. kag sa amon komunidad,” said community.) associations to have received Cotabato on May 3, 2019. This The said amount will be used Bonifacio Febreo of NASUFLA. “We look forward to seeing (I am very thankful for the our farmers grow because the DOLE’s assistance provided department believes in their to our association. We promise role as potential agro-economic ITC for security services created in Region 7 to take care and to sustain drivers in the country,” DOLE this livelihood grant for the 12 Regional Director Sisinio security services organized. despite the breakup of these two by Luchel Senarlo-Taniza benefit of our members and the Cano said. –ANGrafilo The members of the Board big organizations of security CEBU CITY – There is unity in of Trustees are Engr. Ramoncito agencies in Cebu, they are both diversity when the Philippine Arquiza (PADPAO) and Col. open to the creation of the ITC Association of Detective and Bayani Reyes (APSAO) as Vice as they both share the same Protective Agency Operators, Inc. Chair (Management); Joseph sentiments and concerns. (PADPAO, Inc.) and Association Sevilla and Agripino Bucao The ITC will be a good avenue of Private Security Agency (PADPAO) and Rodolfo Marcelo in empowering workers and Operators of the Philippines, Inc. and Atty. Leopoldo Blanco employers organizations while (APSAO, Inc.) formed alliance and (APSAO) as Board of Trustees enhancing their respective rights. successfully created the Industry (Management); Stephen Dominise “It is but timely that security Tripartite Council for Security (PADPAO) and Christian Ann agencies and their guards be Services under the Chairmanship Ravina (APSAO) as Vice Chair heard and be consulted on of DOLE 7 Regional Director (Labor); and Stella Bensi and issues affecting their industry,” Salome Siaton, who administered Ritchell Vergara (PADPAO) and said Assistant Regional Director the oath-taking ceremony of its Maria Saliharlo Ancajas and Estillore. Board of Trustees on Labor Day. Ebunel Cabisera (APSAO) as The DOLE urged all ITCs and “I would like to congratulate Board of Trustees (Labor). TIPCs to religiously continue the new set of Board of Trustees of DOLE-7 Assistant Regional making their councils a sound the ITC for Security Services. Their Director Lilia Estillore, who avenue for settling issues and call to duty is highly significant facilitated the organizational concerns in their respective in providing a continuing forum meeting of said security sectors. If there are alarm signals photo by DOLE RO-7 for tripartite advisement and organizations with Engr. Vicente in each sector, the councils can consultation in their industry,” Abordo and Maria Flordeliza play a very vital role in addressing INDUSTRY TRIPARTITE COUNCIL FOR SECURITY SERVICES. . DOLE 7 Regional Director said Director Siaton who, in just Duremdes, thanked all security concerns and issues before they Salome Siaton administers the oath of office to the new set of Board of Trustees of the two months of her new post in agencies for their cooperation. escalate into full-blown disputes. Tripartite Industry Council for Security Services in Central Visayas. Regional Director Siaton Region 7, was able to get the “We were just so happy that calls on the Council, composed of representatives from PADPAO, Inc. and APSAO, Inc., to provide a continuing forum for tripartite advisement and consultation in their industry.
PHILIPPINE LABOR @laborandemployment • THE GOOD NEWS • From SPES babies Fresh grad among 700+ to young pro HOTS in Bicol LEGAZPI CITY – A new graduate from a state university in Bicol is among 708 jobseekers who were hired on the spot during the “Trabaho, Negosyo, Kabuhayan (TNK)” by Josel-An E. Dua which aims to provide temporary Tagasaka National High School, job fair held on May 1, 2019, at Pacific Mall, Legazpi City. employment to poor but deserving handling Filipino and Edukasyon The Department of Labor and Employment in Bicol STORIES of people who succeed students, out-of-school youth, sa Pagpapakatao subjects. She through hard work serve as an and dependents of displaced is also the Guidance Advocate recorded 2,704 registered applicants in the TNK job encouragement for others who or would-be displaced workers Designate in the said school. fair, with 1,319 qualified applicants and 1,140 near-hire experience difficulties in life. during summer and/or Christmas Meanwhile, her brother applicants who needed to submit necessary requirements Ruel Melan, Janeth and vacation or any time of the year to Reymar is teaching at Tagasaka and undergo the final interview. Reymar Aclon, Rose Ann Tadle, augment the family’s income and Central Elementary School as an “As a fresh graduate, I am very lucky–and glad–to pass and Roxanne Pandili are some help ensure that beneficiaries are adviser in Grade 2. the interview and be hired on the spot in the TNK Job of those who persevered amid able to pursue their education. “SPES is really a big Fair. I really did not expect it. We are really thankful for hardships and eventually “Although it took me six opportunity for those students this big opportunity,” Irish del Castillo, a job applicant, succeeded. years to finish high school, I was who want to finish their studies, said. They are Special Program able to continue with my college but are struggling financially. Atty. Alvin Villamor, DOLE-5 regional director, said for the Employment of Students education, thanks to SPES. I The experience is a good training there were at least 67 local and eight overseas employers (SPES) babies, or those who graduated at 29 years old,” said ground for us to understand the who participated in the job fair on Labor Day. availed the DOLE’s employment- Ruel Melan, a SPES baby who reality of work compared to what The activity was part of the simultaneous nationwide bridging program for more than now works as an office clerk at is taught in school. Also, we share one cycle to finance their studies TNK Job and Business Fair in 29 sites in the country in the Municipal Budget Office of this experience with our students. celebration of Labor Day. and are now young professionals Hinatuan, Surigao Del Sur. We always tell them that poverty “Employment facilitation and job creation are keys to in their own fields. Ruel stopped schooling to cannot hinder our dreams.” accelerating the delivery of inclusive growth, as well as SPES is DOLE’s youth work as a fisherman, so he could Rose Ann Tadle, meanwhile, employment-bridging program support his family and save for was employed under SPES for peace and development towards realizing the aspirations his education. four cycles, from the year 2011 of all Filipinos,” Villamor said. Through PESO Manager until she graduated in 2014. He added that the job fair was a big opportunity to job James Soria, Ruel found out about She graduated with a degree seekers, particularly fresh graduates, who gained a first- SPES and availed of the program. in Business Administration at hand interview experience and land decent employment He started working under Hinatuan Southern College. right after graduation. SPES in the summer of 2009 until She passed the Civil Service DOLE-5 provided the Labor Day job fair in Legazpi he graduated in college in 2012. He examination after graduating City with job opportunities, business fair, livelihood fair was conferred graduate of BSBA and is currently employed at and skills training opportunities. Major in Business Economics Hinatuan Government Employees The activity also consisted of the awarding of the at the Holy Child Colleges of Multi-Purpose Cooperative as livelihood assistance project to DOLE beneficiaries. Butuan. Bookkeeper for four years already. The best implementers of the livelihood programs “Today, I still go fishing if Roxanne Pandili’s story also were also honored, alongside with the launching of Sibol I have the luxury of time, but speaks of struggle and hope as Kabuhayan by the Department of Social Welfare and my situation at present is a lot she survived college with the help Development. different from 10 years ago,” said of her salary from SPES. She was The Department of Trade and Industry conducted Ruel. able to buy instructional materials Meanwhile, siblings Janeth for her practicum without asking orientation on business while the Technical Education and Reymar Aclon, both licensed for money from her parents. “I and Skills Development Authority provided soft skills photo by DOLE Caraga professional teachers, are even bought something for my demo and enrollment to scholarship programs. –JV Gasga beneficiaries of the program back family from the salary that I got,” SPES BABY. Janeth Aclon (right), who was in their college years. she gladly recalled. a SPES beneficiary from 2007 to 2009, is now Janeth was a SPES beneficiary At present, Roxanne is a licensed teacher, who handles Filipino and in 2007-2009; while Reymar was employed as a clerk in the Public Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao subjects at Tagasaka National High School. She is also a beneficiary of the program in Employment Service Office of the Guidance Advocate Designate in the said 2008-2010. Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur for nine school. Today, Janeth is teaching at months already.
photo by Dodong Echavez, IPS
KABUHAYAN AWARDEE. The CAGAPA, which is composed of marginalized housewives, produces and sells cassava chips at various pasalubong centers, groceries, sari-sari stores, and schools in the Zamboanga Peninsula Region. The group emerged as national winner in the Kabuhayan Dressmaker, housewives, Awards and received P100,000 cash award. the success of their livelihood making business emerged undertakings. 2nd place in group category ‘Kabuhayan’ winners “Rest assured that DOLE will followed by the Bauko Organic continue to provide technical Practitioners Credit Cooperative A DRESSMAKER and a with its sustainable business her community. assistance, training, and other from Cordillera Administrative housewives association emerged on cassava chips making and The CAGAPA, on the other support services to our livelihood Region’s CED Vegetable Enriched as national winners in the labor received P100,000 cash award. hand, is a marginalized group of beneficiaries to further sustain Noodles Production at 3rd place. department’s Kabuhayan Awards, “Lubos akong nagpapasalamat housewives that received P283,000 and achieve success in their DOLE regional and provincial or the search for outstanding sa DOLE for granting me livelihood aid from DOLE in 2014, livelihood ventures. We hope focal persons and implementers DOLE-assisted livelihood projects livelihood assistance na naging which enabled them to enhance that you will continue to inspire were also conferred with Plaque nationwide. gabay at supporta ko upang their business venture on cassava others and help us move forward of Recognition for their vital Teresita Lania from Soccsk- mapaunlad ang aking kabuhayan chips making. From 14 members in achieving our grand goal of contribution to the growth and sargen Region was recognized as at makatulong sa iba. Nawa’y at the start, the association now inclusive growth and poverty the sustainability of livelihood the national champion in the in- patuloy kong mapagbuti ang has 129 members. reduction,” Ebarle said. projects of ‘Kabuhayan winners’. dividual category for exhibiting aking nasimulan,” Lania said. Also, their products are now Among other awardees in the The Kabuhayan Awards is exemplary performance in sus- Lania, a 53-year-old being sold at various pasalubong individual category are Warlito an annual event organized by taining her Lania Dress Shop and dressmaker, was selected as the centers, groceries, sari-sari stores Mina of Lito Mina Auto Repair the Bureau of Workers with received P50,000 cash award. Kabuhayan champion for her feat and schools, and this has resulted from Region 9 and Aina Ibrahim Special Concerns, in coordination In the group category, the in expanding her dress shop from in generating employment for of Panabo Night Market Street with DOLE Regional Offices, to housewives association called the P5,000 worth of livelihood more people in their locality. Food Vending from Region 11 reward the relentless efforts and Cassava Growers and Processors assistance from DOLE in 2015 Acting Secretary Renato who bagged the 2nd and 3rd perseverance of beneficiaries Association (CAGAPA) from which enabled her to sustain and Ebarle commended the awardees place, respectively. in sustaining the gains of the Zamboanga Peninsula Region improve her business. Lania is for their hard work and assured Region 11’s 8’s Magic DOLE-funded livelihood projects. bagged the national champion now employing 10 workers from them of sustained assistance for Garment Association’s garment- –Abegail V. De Vega