Bello suspends deployment to Kuwait P3

photo by Heather Agyepong photo by Larry C. Price. The Philadelphia Inquirer news overseas AGENCIES THE GOOD NEWS 300K Contractuals Japan welcomes Renewed drive From spa to secure jobs technical interns vs. child labor to ‘carinderia’ P2 P5 P6 P8

Additional OSSCO excels POLOs to look in innovation after OFWs The One-Stop Service Center for OFWs (OSSCO) was among the government programs listed by the Asian Productivity Organization-Center of Excellence on Public Sector Productivity as having excelled in P2 Innovation and Productivity Initiatives in 2017. P2 PLDT plea junked; told to pay P66-M benefits P3

’Political will’ made

OFBank a reality P2

OVERSEAS FILIPINO (OF) BANK LAUNCH. President , flanked by Executive Secretary , Foreign Affairs Secretary Allan Peter Cayetano, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III, and Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary , leads the launching of the OF Bank at the Postbank Center in Liwasang Bonifacio, Manila. The OF Bank will cater to remittances and other banking needs of Filipino migrant workers all over the world. 2 January 2018 ‘Political will’ made OFBank a reality

Sheer political will and grate- immense economic contribution gratefulness to them, soon enough year. The President designated and those who acquired resident fulness to and genuine affection and sacrifices of overseas our OFWs will slowly accumulate a representative of OFWs in the visas. for the Filipino modern day . larger shares in the bank to bank board along with the labor The bank is set to provide heroes. “Today, we make history. become its biggest shareholders secretary and the administrator the cheapest, fastest, secured, These, according to Labor And we dedicate this chapter in and owners.” of the Overseas Workers Welfare and convenient mobile credit-to- Secretary Silvestre Bello III are grateful recognition of the immea- “And I dare declare that Administration. account-system remittance service what made President Duterte surable sacrifices and immense this will happen during the Services of the OF Bank for overseas Filipinos. It will also fulfill his promise to establish the contribution of our overseas Fili- incumbency of the Mayor from are meant to ease the burden offer competitive deposit products OFbank which will cater primarily pinos to what our nation is now,” Davao who made the OFBank a on overseas Filipinos through including Peso ATM Savings, time to the financial needs of overseas he said, noting that the establish- reality,” Bello said. tailor-fit products and services deposit and checking accounts. Filipinos, mainly the OFWs. ment of a bank for OFWs has been Formerly the Philippine Postal for the modern day heroes and OF Bank is also introducing the At the launch of the bank in promised by former presidents in Savings Bank, it was acquired by their families. Not only limited Future Need Savings Plan to Manila on January 18, Bello said the last four decades. the Land Bank of the to overseas Filipino workers, the encourage and inspire overseas the OFBank is the government’s He added, “So as to demon- by virtue of Executive Order No. bank will also benefit all Filipinos Filipinos to develop the habit of manifestation of gratitude for the strate our government’s sincerest 44 issued by President Duterte last abroad, including immigrants, saving money. –Paul R. Ang More POLOs to look after OFWs 2018 regularization target: The government is establishing China; Berlin, Germany; to Filipinos around the world. additional Philippine Overseas Wellington, New Zealand; and in This would allow us to proactively 300k contractuals Labor Offices to look after and Osaka, Japan. monitor and take advantage of better serve overseas Filipino “We see the opening of POLOs labor market opportunities in the workers (OFWs). in those posts as a strategic step host countries,” Labor Secretary to secure jobs Opening up this year are new in ensuring that labor-related Silvestre Bello III told a command POLOs in Miami, Florida and programs and services of the conference of labor attaches last At least 300,000 contractual they must submit a program Los Angeles in the US; Shanghai, government are made accessible month. workers will be regularized by of regularization,” Bello told a In a separate media interview, the end of 2018 on top of the more recent media forum in Quezon Bello said: “We will set up a new than 120,000 workers already City. POLO in Florida so we could enjoying regular employment “Through our intensified address the concerns of our status under the government’s labor inspections and voluntary Filipino seafarers there.” drive against contractualization. regularization of collaborating “We do not have a POLO in This year’s number of workers establishments, we are expect- New Zealand and our workers to be regularized is the target ing more workers to enjoy there are under our POLO in set by the labor department to stable employment status. As Australia,” he said. be attained through voluntary President Duterte has com- He also said POLOs would compliance and other enforce- mitted, we are pursuing the be established in countries with ment measures in businesses and campaign to stop this pernicious large concentration of OFWs. enterprises across the country. (contractualization) practice with The new POLOs will be To help attain this target and more vigor,” he said. added to the existing 35 overseas to fast track the regularization At present, there are 541 photo by International Labor Affairs Bureau labor offices of the department. of workers, Labor Secretary Labor Laws Compliance Officers TRAINING PROGRAM FOR OMAN-BASED OFWs. OFW participants intently listen to the Silvestre Bello III said he will (LLCOs) who conduct assessment discussion during a training course organized by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in ask establishments to submit and inspection of around 937,554 Oman. their respective employee small, medium and big business regularization programs. establishments in the country. “I have instructed our Under- On top of that are 55 social secretary for Labor Relations partners comprised of 45 labor OSSCO excels in innovation to order all our regional groups, five employers’ groups, offices to require all business and five other organizations who by Gerry S. Rubio As of end 2017, the OSSCOs educational, training, and welfare establishments throughout the were trained on Labor Laws and served 1,736,578 Filipino workers assistance; issuance of new or country to submit a list of their Social Legislation. –Althea Louise The One-Stop Service Center for at the Philippine Overseas Em- renewal of existing professional employees and the nature of their D. Majan OFWs, an interagency initiative of ployment Administration central license ID, issuance or revalidation employment. At the same time, the labor department, was listed as office in Mandaluyong City and of Seaman’s Book; processing one of the Philippine government in the 16 other regional centers in or updating of membership to programs having excelled in the country. Pag-IBIG, SSS, and PhilHealth, Innovation and Productivity Labor Secretary Silvestre including loans, claims, Initiatives in the Service Quality Bello III has been encouraging and contribution payments; category. OFWs to avail of the services processing and issuances of birth, The rating was made by the of OSSCOs in their respective marriage or death certificates, NBI Asian Productivity Organization regions for a more convenient and clearance, and TIN, among others. - Center of Excellence on shorter processing time of their Sixteen government agencies Public Sector Productivity in documents, and considerable provide services to the OSSCOs in its assessment of public offices reduction of expenses. POEA and in the regional centers. photo by Kitanglad Multimedia Collective conducted last year. “And in order to further APO is a regional intergovern- provide convenience to our mental organization composed OFWs, we are expanding the of 20 economies that work for OSSCO by putting up more the sustainable socio-economic service centers. With this, it is development of Asia and the hoped that more and more of our Pacific by enhancing productivity. workers aspiring for job overseas It is headquartered in Tokyo, and those returning OFWs will Japan. benefit from a less costly way of OSSCO was cited among five accessing frontline government other separate innovative pro- services,” Bello said. grams of the Department of Science Pursuant to the desire of and Technology, Department of President Duterte, DOLE launch- Health, Department of Energy ed OSSCO in August 2016 to and the Department of Tourism give OFWs and applicants for and a host of other agencies and overseas work with a broad range local government units. of accessible inter-agency services The APO rating came amid by putting in one location all the increased number of workers government agencies that provide served by the 17 OSSCOs documentary services and other nationwide for over a year that assistance. it brought together government OSSCOs provide services for rd agencies in one location to serve passport processing, OWWA OFW ONE-STOP SHOP PROCESSING CENTER IN PAMPANGA OPENED. Labor and Employment Secretary Silvestre Bello III (3 from left, in front), Transportation Secretary Arthur P. Tugade, House Committee on Transportation Chairman Congressman Cesar V. Sarmiento, Angeles City Mayor Ed OFWs and those applying for membership application or Pamintuan, including officials from Clark Development Corporation, DOLE, and government agencies at the service center, lead the opening of OFW overseas work. renewal and application for One-Stop Shop Processing at Clark Polytechnic, Jose Abad Santos Ave. Clark Free Port Zone, Angeles City, Pampanga.

dole.gov.ph PHILIPPINE LABOR

October-December 2017 January 2018 3 PLDT plea junked; told to pay P66-M claims

by Paul R. Ang The labor department has made The same ruling also applies to Inc., Transbio Incorporated, final its order for the Philippine MG Exeo Network, Occupational Trends and Technologies Service Long Distance Telephone Com- Dental Health Care and Services, Maintenance Inc., and We pany (PLDT) to regularize close PC Tech, Pointman Placement Support Inc. were also ordered to 8,000 contractual workers Specialist, Proserve Multi Re- to grant the monetary claims and settle P66 million in unpaid sources Specialists Inc., Searchers of their workers amounting to benefits. and Staffers Corporation; SPi CRM P37,901,866.27. Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello Inc., Unison Computer System Most of the companies III rejected PLDT’s appeal to Inc., and Upsight Construction Inc. identified as labor-only photo by Intramuros Administration reverse the compliance order Aside from being identified contractors were found making GREEN OPPORTUNITIES. The DOLE, in consultation with other agencies, shall formulate the issued by the NCR regional as companies engaged in labor- unauthorized wage deductions, National Green Jobs HRD Plan on the development, enhancement, and utilization of labor force office last year to provide regular only contracting, AE Research non-payment and non- to enable and sustain the transition to a green economy and the generation of green jobs. The employment status to its workers, Exponents Inc., Aremay Enter- compliance with the minimum service sector, particularly the transportation (e-vehicle) is one of the sectors covered by the while its contractors were told to prise, Best Option Assistance wage and the 13th month law, National Green Jobs Human Resource Development Plan (NGJHRDP). pay the employees P6 6,348,368.88 Inc., Centennial Technologies & and refused to grant their in monetary claims. Marketing Corporation, Comworks workers service incentive benefits In denying PLDT’s appeal, Inc., Consolidated Management stipulated in the Labor Code. Rules on ‘green jobs’ out Bello said his office found no Resources, Curo Teknika Inc., They were ordered by the merit to overturn the DOLE NCR Diars Assistance Inc., Goodline labor department to cease and by Althea Louise D. Majan order. Staffers and Allied Service Inc., desist from further engaging in Identified as companies and Implicare International contracting activities and their Pursuant to the govern- percent of the total expense engaged in labor-only contracting, Management Resources Inc., were respective registrations cancelled. ment’s commitment to transition for skills training and research DOLE ordered PLDT to regularize directed to settle monetary claims On the other hand, the labor into a green economy, the labor development expenses; and workers from Activeone Health of their workers amounting to department declared Customer department released recently exemption from customs duties Inc., Archon Consulting and P28, 446,139.14. Frontline Solutions Inc., Pro the implementing rules and and taxes on the importation of System Services Inc., BBS-VP- Furthermore, Information Tek Telecoms Support Inc., SL regulations (IRR) of the Green capital equipment, provided that VPN Allied Services Corporation, Professionals Inc., Iplus Intel- Temps; St. Clair Security and Jobs Law or Republic Act No. such equipment shall be actually, Consultancy, Outsourcing, Re- ligent Network Inc., LBP Investigation Inc., and Trigold 10771. directly, and exclusively used covery and Equivalent Services Service Corporation, Meralco Security & Investigation Agency The law provides that the in promoting, generating, and (CORES) Inc., El Grande Mes- Industrial Engineering Services Incorporated as legitimate State shall identify needed skills, sustaining green jobs. sengerial Services Inc., Hibizcom Corporation, Pro Tek Telecoms contractors. They have also develop training programs, Aside from incentives, Corp., JFM Installation & Telecom Support Inc., Serveflex Inc., Sitetel immediately abided to settle and train and certify workers other forms of assistance are Services Inc., and M.D. Tambungui Marketing, Software Laboratories unpaid monetary claims, wages, for jobs in a range of industries business development support Specialists (MDTS) Inc. Inc., Tejo Management Services and benefits to their employees. that produce goods and render from the Department of Science services for the benefit of and Technology (DOST); the environment, conserve special business facilitation natural resources for the future program through the Negosyo Bello suspends deployment to Kuwait generation, and ensure the Center of the Department of sustainable development of the Trade and Industry (DTI); and LABOR Secretary Silvestre Bello III has ordered the The Order took effect immediately after its issuance. country and its transition into a preferential financial packages suspension of deployment of workers to Kuwait The seven Pinoy workers who died in Kuwait were green economy. from government financial following the deaths of seven overseas Filipino workers Liezl Truz Hukdong, Vanessa Karissha L. Esguerra, Department Order No. 180 institutions, in consultation with in the Gulf state. Marie Fe Saliling Librada, Arlene Castillo Manzano, signed by Secretary Silvestre the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas In Administrative Oder No. 25 issued on January Devine Riche Encarnacion, Patrick Sunga, and Mira Bello III spelled out the rules that (BSP). 19, Bello directed the Philippine Overseas Employment Luna Juntilla. will govern the implementation Business enterprises may Administration (POEA) to stop the processing and All of the identified Filipina migrant workers were of the law. avail of the incentives subject to issuance of overseas employment certificates (OECs) to household services workers, and most of them were Under the guidelines, DOLE the standards for the assessment all Kuwait-bound workers pending the investigation deployed in 2016. shall formulate the National and certification which shall of the cause of deaths of the Filipino workers. The ban came on the heels of President Duterte’s Green Jobs Human Resource be developed by the Climate “We would like to seek justice for our OFWs, statement during the launching of the Overseas Development Plan on the Change Commission (CCC), and while the investigation is undergoing, we are Filipino Bank to impose a total ban on the deployment development, enhancement, and in consultation with concerned suspending the processing and issuance of OECs. We of overseas Filipino workers, particularly household utilization of the labor force, both government agencies, within are doing this for utmost protection and welfare of our workers to Kuwait following reports of sexual abuses in private and public sectors. 120 days after the effectivity kababayan,” Bello said. and maltreatment of OFWs. –Gerry S. Rubio The plan shall include of the implementing rules and programs, projects, and activities regulations (IRR) of RA 10771. pertaining to basic, higher and In the education sector, technical-vocational education DepEd and CHED were tasked and training; a database that to develop and implement identifies and links green job curriculum in support of the opportunities with private and green economy. public entities; and information The Professional Regulation on knowledge and skills Commission (PRC) and the Tech- requirements of a green economy. nical Education and Skills Devel- In coordination with other opment Authority (TESDA) shall concerned government agencies, develop their individual qualifi- DOLE shall also maintain a cations frameworks to facilitate database of green careers, the recognition of knowledge, professions and skills, as well skills, and competencies of pro- as a list of emerging business fessionals and skilled workers, enterprises, which generate and respectively. sustain green jobs. Moreover, DOST and TESDA To encourage green jobs shall assist DOLE in analyzing initiatives, incentives shall be skills, as well as training and re- provided to qualified business training needs relative to the use enterprises, which include of green technologies. self-employed or own-account The National Tripartite workers; micro, small, and Industrial Peace Council (NTIPC) medium enterprises (MSMEs); shall serve as the oversight and community-based business committee to verify and monitor enterprises and cooperatives. the implementation and Incentives include special enforcement of the provisions of deduction from the taxable the IRR. income equivalent to 50

PHILIPPINE LABOR @laborandemployment 4 January 2018 ‘Treat our countrymen with dignity’ Abridged address of Secretary Silvestre H. Bello III at the 2018 Command Conference of Posts in Europe, Middle East and Africa held in Milan, Italy on January 28, 2018

THE President sent this stern lead to a ban on the deployment Overseas Filipino Bank putting across the country. With this, it message to the world: treat our of our workers. And it is This is the vision into reality what previous is hoped that more and more of countrymen with dignity. He was incumbent upon us to abide by “ Presidents have failed to do. It is our workers aspiring to work uncompromising in reminding this instruction. of the President. a symbol of our nation’s gratitude overseas and those returning rich and powerful nations that Pursuant to this directive, I And this is what we to our countrymen overseas for OFWs will benefit from a less our OFWs help the economies immediately ordered the POEA their contribution and sacrifices. costly way of accessing frontline around the globe. While their to suspend the processing and are doing so that And the DFA and the foreign government services. remittances greatly contribute to issuance of OECs to Kuwait- posts will be playing a very Perhaps what could be more our own GDP, this should never bound workers, pending one day, no more pivotal role in this milestone for inspiring is the ability of our be at the expense of the human investigation of the deaths of our Filipino worker all migrant Filipinos. government to lessen the number dignity of the Filipino. OFWs in that Arab state. Also, the President has rolled of those Filipinos who are The President’s message I have also requested will be maltreated, out the iDOLE OFW ID which compelled to work overseas out was precipitated by the series Secretary Cayetano to advise abused and raped is now initially available to of necessity. We may soon have of reported deaths of OFWs foreign posts to review and issue returning OFWs. The card is free lesser number of migrants who in Kuwait, and compounded certifications on host country on foreign land. for our OFWs, and will enable are forced to sacrifice being away greatly by the increasing cases of compliance in accordance with RA ” them to access basic government from their families to earn a living maltreatment, sexual abuses and 10022. Sana po ay magawa natin but there are lots of positive services online. Again, the abroad. rape. These alarming incidents ito sa lalong madaling panahon developments too back home. government is doing this to give This is the vision of the are on top of the huge volume so that our POEA Governing Armed with sheer political back to our modern-day heroes. President. And this is what we of reported cases of violation of Board can act on the President’s will and with his genuine affection And to further provide are doing so that one day, no contract by Kuwaiti employers. directive accordingly. for our OFWs, the President made convenience to our OFWs, we are more Filipino worker will be Against this backdrop, the We may be seeing a not true his commitments to the expanding our One-Stop Service maltreated, abused and raped on policy instruction to us is very so pleasant landscape that is Filipino workers. Centers for OFWs by putting foreign land. clear: any further incident of developing on the horizon for More than a week ago, the up more OSSCOs on top of the Let us join hands and work maltreatment of our OFWs would our bagong bayaning Filipino, President inaugurated the existing ones in all the regions together to attain this end. Nursing the health care workers Those who provide health care BLR Director Benjo Santos pants from non-health institutions to the people deserve to be taken Benavidez said the two-day joined the seminar. cared, too! training focused on the nurses’ The nurses’ data and informa- With this caring thought, the situation, the relevant local and tion gathered during the activity “We want them to Bureau of Labor Relations has international laws that promote will serve as inputs to their local been extending its services to help and protect nurses’ rights and hospital plan of action. The FNU further raise their health workers promote their welfare, and the suggested plans will also use the re-entry plan to level of awareness welfare and enhance their working and recommendations to address monitor their performance at the condition by empowering them the various identified issues. local and regional levels. on their basic rights through their organizations. “We want them to further raise Eleanor Nolasco, FNU national and enhance their In a training-workshop last their level of awareness on their president, expressed gratitude to month in Tacloban, members of basic rights and enhance their BLR for providing their organiza- working conditions BENJO SANTOS M. the Filipino Nurses United (FNU) working conditions to render tion opportunities for empower- to render quality were the participants in BLR’s quality nursing care,” Benavidez ment through the WODP. BENAVIDEZ Workers Organization Develop- said. WODP aims to enhance the nursing care” Director IV ment Program (WODP) to enrich The training-workshop on capabilities of labor organizations Bureau of Labor Relations (BLR) their local hospital action plan. “Nurses’ Rights and Welfare: Em- and their members in the areas of FNU is a national organization powering Nurses to Better Serve leadership, organizational devel- of healthcare advocating work- the People” was attended by 40 opment and management through ers’ welfare and people’s right to registered nurses from public and provision of training assistance health service. private hospitals. Also, partici- and support. NEW OFFICIALS ON BOARD Executive Editor | RAUL M. FRANCIA jacinto v. paras Editor-in-Chief | GERRY S. RUBIO Undersecretary Issue Editor | TEEPHANIE D. LADERAS Human Capital Development,Legislative, Media Affairs and Administrative Services Senior Writers | ALTHEA LOUISE D. MAJAN | ABEGAIL V. DE VEGA Lawyer, former Congressman - 1st District PETER PAUL R. ANG of Negros Oriental Contributing Writers | HERSHEY AQUINO, NCR | Patrick Rillorta, CAR ARLY STA. ANA-VALDEZ, RO1 | REGINALD ESTIOCO, RO2 Bernard p. olalia JEREMIAH BORJA, RO3 | FRANZ RAYMOND AQUINO, RO4-A Administrator Lorera Catapang, RO4-B | RAYMOND ESCALANTE, RO5 Philippine Overseas Employment Administration AMALIA JUDICPA, RO6 | LUCHEL TANIZA, RO7 Lawyer, former DOLE Undersecretary Virgilio Doroja, RO8 | KAREN CLAIRE GRAFIA, RO9 MILDRED DABLIO, RO10 | Kriztja Marae Labrador, RO11 Kathleen Turnos, RO12 | Olga Virginia DEMATA, CARAGA Arnaldo a. ignacio Creative Artist | GREGORIO I. GALMAN | VERONICA C. CASIL Deputy Administrator Photographers | JOMAR S. LAGMAY | ALEJANDRO P. ECHAVEZ Overseas Workers Welfare Administration Circulation Manager | GIRLIE MARLYN E. ARCE Former AVP for Community Relation & Services, Circulation Assistants | MADELYN D. DOMETITA | RANDY F. FERNANDEZ PAGCOR The Philippine Labor is the official publication of the Department of Labor and Employment Ria corazon s. lano with editorial office at the Director IV Information and Publication Service Philippine Overseas Employment Administration 3rd Floor, DOLE Building, Intramuros, Manila. Lawyer, Consultant to the GRP panel on the Peace Negotations with the CPP-NPA-NDF

Raul m. francia Readers’ queries, comments, and suggestions are welcome. Director IV Mail or fax them in, or call us Information and Publication Service at telephone numbers 527-3000 loc. 620, 621, 622, Public Communicator, Former Journalist 623, 625, 626, 627. Our fax number is 527-3446. You may also visit our website: www.dole.gov.ph; or e-mail us at [email protected].

dole.gov.ph PHILIPPINE LABOR

October-December 2017 January 2018 • OVERSEAS • 5 Korea issues Pinoy hero new visa criteria Japan welcomes awarded The Korean government has MACAU – Loreto Mijares, changed the criteria for issuing acclaimed “Filipino Hero” here, Certificate of Confirmation for was the first non-resident to Visa Issuance (CCVI) to foreign technical interns receive the Honorific Title – workers under its Employment Prestige Award by the MSAR Permit System (EPS) and Government in January. Mijares was awarded for his consequently changed the by Paul R. Ang qualification for application for courageous act of saving three local residents when Typhoon EPS-Test of Proficiency in Korean Filipinos will now have a through the training program, language proficiency, he said (TOPIK). Hato battered the city in August chance to undergo internship develop the Philippine economy work experience, enthusiasm, 2017. The new set of criteria, training in Japan following the with the acquired knowledge and eagerness to work are some which was issued by the Human The Certificate of Merit is signing of a cooperation agree- of the trainees and promote big factors for the applicants to be awarded to local residents “who Resources Development Service ment between the government international cooperation. qualified for the program. of Korea (HRD Korea), covers have made a major contribution and the Ministry of Japan to The Philippine Overseas “Proficiency in the Japanese to the reputation, development both the new and returning deploy technical trainees this year. Employment Administration Language is a factor, but it foreign workers registering for or social progress” of Macau. Labor Undersecretary Bernard (POEA) will be the lead agency doesn’t count much. They will Mijares topped the certificate list. Korean language test. Olalia said the cooperation to process, accept, and screen greatly base their criteria during The OFW received numerous Under the recently issued agreement will provide better licensed Philippine recruitment the training period whether the awards including Plaques of Ap- guidelines, the new workers must opportunities for the Filipino agencies, while foreign or applicant has the eagerness to preciation from his employer, The be 18 to 39 years of age (based migrant workers while their skills Japanese recruitment agencies work,” he said. Parisian Macau, the Philippine on first registration day); have will also be sharpened through are tasked to send legitimate job Qualified trainees are Consulate General Macau SAR. not been convicted of any crime intensive technical training. orders and their required number expected to have the opportunity He was recently awarded the punishable by imprisonment; “This will open a big market of applicants. to work for the private institution Excellence Award in the Leading have no record of deportation for our kababayan apart from “We were given a procedure such as those engaged in Example category of the Macau or departure order from the the existing market. They by our Japanese counterparts, construction, retail, services, and Business Awards. He was also Republic of Korea; have not been will be given various quality as well as a timeline for the other related sectors. given an award by his Manila- restricted from departure from opportunities for employment program. They will send job POEA will send a complete based recruitment agency, IKON. home country; and a person who which are not limited because orders, and our private licensed list of duly licensed and Awed by the several don’t have more than 5 years’ their skills and competitiveness recruitment agencies will be the accredited recruitment agencies recognitions he received, Mijares duration of sojourn including the will also be improved,” Olalia ones who will accept and screen in the Philippines to the Ministry said that the recognition accorded duration of sojourn combining said. the applicants,” Olalia added. of Japan by April 1, while the him by the Macau SAR is not sojourn period with E-9 visa and The agreement aims to share With the implementation of deployment of trainees will only for him but also for his E-10 visa. –POEA technical skills with Filipinos much-relaxed rules for foreign commence on September 1, 2018. compatriots in the region and elsewhere overseas. –POLO Macau 170 selected for Taiwan factory Saudi ministry Some 170 Filipino applicants needs female have been selected by the Career Technology (Mfg) Co. Ltd., a health workers Taiwan-based manufacturing company, to work as factory The MINISTRY OF INTERIOR workers under the SHPT or in the Kingdom of Saudi the Special Hiring Program for Arabia is in urgent need of Taiwan. female qualified applicants The workers, who will be for the position of Staff Nurse, deployed in three batches, will Laboratory Technician and be working at Career Technology Electrocardiogram (ECG) (Mfg) Co. Ltd., one of the Technician. world’s leading manufacturers To qualify for the vacancies, of flexible printed circuits. applicants must either have a The company manufactures Bachelor’s degree in Nursing products for various applications and Laboratory Technology including mobile phones, touch (for staff nurse and laboratory panels, tablet PC, digital cameras, technician); or Diploma in flat displays, notebooks, GPS, Laboratory Technology and Autotronics as well as medical Electrocardiogram Technology instrument market segments. Its (for laboratory technician and products are mainly exported ECG technician). to the United States of America, They must also be a Licensure PH-JAPAN BILATERAL AGREEMENT. Labor and Employment Secretary Silvestre Bello III signs a Memorandum of Cooperation on the Mainland China, Hong Kong, implementation of the new Technical Intern Training Program with Japan Minister of Health, Labour, and Welfare (MHLW) Katsunobu Kato. The Examination holder and have Japan, South Korea and bilateral agreement was witnessed by DOLE Undersecretary Claro A. Arellano, Consul General Jocelyn Tirol Ignacio, and Labor Attaché Marie at least a minimum of one year Singapore. –POEA Rose Escalada. related work experience. –POEA Bartending in Macau MACAU – The Philippine restaurant facilities (kitchen Overseas Labor Office here and dining area) as the training sponsored bartending classes venue. late last year. POLO acknowledged the The training was attended support and assistance of by 30 OFW-participants, mostly Ronald Bartolome, the COO women. The participants were of La Cucina, a Restaurant that hopeful to learn and acquire specializes in Italian cuisine. new knowledge and skills that The participants were will pave the way for them to encouraged to practice and apply venture into job opportunities new skills in social gatherings in other service sectors like and submit themselves for restaurants, bars, and hotels. assessment by TESDA for The 2017 Bartending training, skills certification that they was made possible with the can use for job applications. benevolence of a Filipino –POLO Macau entrepreneur who agreed to photo by: POLO-Macau have POLO Macau access its TRAINING ON BARTENDING. Mr. Kenneth Abaricia, a 2013 Bartender of the year awardee (left photo), teaches the 30 OFW participants on how to mix drinks and perform flairtending, during a training held at the La Cucina Italiana in Macau.

PHILIPPINE LABOR @laborandemployment 6 • AGENCIES • January 2018

UNDERSECRETARY MAGLUNSOD AT NCMB’s 30TH ANNIVERSARY. Labor Undersecretary for NLRC Labor Relations Joel Maglunsod emphasizes the need to further capacitate the officials and employees of the National Conciliation frontline and Mediation Board (NCMB) in handling challenges on employer-employee relations in his message during the agency’s 30th founding anniversary at the Ichikawa Hall of OSHC in service . rates POEA good qualifies The National Labor Relations Commission continues to receive nurses for satisfactory feedback for its frontline services as rated by its Germany client-workers in the monitoring The Philippine Overseas Em- results of Citizen’s Feedback ployment Administration has Systems Report last month. started processing qualified Workers with pending cases nurses for deployment to Ger- said the commission’s frontline many under the Triple Win staff is ‘very accommodating, Project following the lapse of courteous and very helpful’. application deadline this month. Other groups praised NLRC The International Placement NCMB fetes good record Service of the German Federal for its reliable and fast services in Employment Agency (ZAV/BA) the resolution of their labor cases. by Althea Louise D. Majan is in need of nurses to fill up The NLRC garnered 95% its vacancies for ICU, general, satisfaction rate from 357 THE National Conciliation and cases while surpassing by 5 “Be relentless in delivering medical and surgery and geri- respondents who availed the Mediation Board (NCMB) was percent their settlement rate good, quality service and atric care wards and operating Request for Assistance (RFA) at hailed for its role in achieving target for notices of strikes and make the alternative dispute room. the Single Entry Approach (SEnA) and maintaining industrial peace lockouts. resolution work not as a mere The Triple Win Project is su- Unit of the NCR Arbitration in the country as it marked its 30th The NCMB also resolved alternative but as the principal pervised by the POEA through Branch for the period in review. year last month. cases involving P4.249 billion mode of dispute resolution,” a government-to-government “I am pleased that in the past collective bargaining benefits Bello said. arrangement with the Federal NLRC Chairman Gerardo Republic of Germany. three decades, the NCMB was able and other monetary claims The NCMB, which was cre- Nograles said his office continues To qualify, applicants must to prioritize programs to improve to live up to public expectations covering 83,039 workers in the ated under Executive Order No. have German language profi- the disposition of cases and and remaining relevant amidst first 18 months of the Duterte 126, as amended by EO 251, is ciency and is willing to undergo service to the public, maintaining the multitude of challenges in administration. tasked to formulate policies, de- German language training in to obtain the highest percentage modern industrial relations,” The speedy settlement was velop plans and programs, and the Philippines to attain Level of enrolled and disposed cases Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello made through the Alternative set standards and procedures B1 (to be paid by the employer) among all Attached Agencies III said, addressing officials and Dispute Resolution mechanism, relative to the promotion of con- or with Bl or B2 language profi- of the Department of Labor and staff at the Occupational Safety which recorded a total of 53,958 ciliation and mediation of labor ciency level in accordance with and Health Center in Quezon resolved cases. disputes through the preventive the Common European Frame- Employment. work of Reference for Languag- City. As the alternative dispute mediation, conciliation and vol- He said the Commission es. remains successful in achieving He lauded the agency for its resolution arm of the labor de- untary arbitration, and facilita- Successful candidates will its target in the resolution and 100 percent disposition rate of partment, Bello challenged the tion of labor-management coop- have a starting monthly salary disposition of cases through actual strikes last year and for its NCMB to continue devising eration. of €1,900 (gross) and an increase settlements and compulsory remarkable 85 percent settlement means in responding to issues It is headed by Executive to € 2,300 after recognition as a arbitration. –KMSD rate of preventive mediation brought to them for assistance. Director Shirley Pascual. qualified nurse. Renewed drive OWWA partners with DA in agribusiness roadshow vs. child labor government agencies discussed by Elliel Dominic F. Cerna topics related to overseas Forty-eight focal persons from the regional Undersecretary Maglunsod said. migration and agriculture. Aside and provincial offices of the labor department had Aside from its objective of informing the KORONADAL – The Overseas from OWWA and DA, invited committed to further strengthen the campaign on participants on the latest laws and development on Workers Welfare Administration agencies include the Department child labor prevention and elimination. child labor, the activity also served as a platform (OWWA), Atikha, Inc. and the of Trade and Industry (DTI), In an orientation hosted by the Bureau of to discuss the issues and concerns of the DOLE Department of Agriculture– Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Workers with Special Concerns, the DOLE Child regional child labor program implementers. The Agribusiness and Marketing Resources (BFAR), Cooperative Labor Program Implementers were informed activity also enabled the participants to think of Assistance Service (DA–AMAS) Development Authority (CDA), about the new laws, policies and issuances strategies to eradicate child labor, in accordance held the final leg of an Agribusiness Samahang Nayon Multi-Purpose relating to child labor and provided with updates with the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022. Investment Forum for OFWs and Cooperative, SOCCSKSARGEN on DOLE Child Labor Prevention and Elimination “Ang problema ng child labor ay hindi their families last month in General Banana Industry Council and Mua- Program and other related programs of partner madaling lutasin. Hindi kaya lamang ng DOLE Santos City. an Farmers Producers Cooperative agencies. ito. Kailangan nating makipag-ugnayan sa iba’t About 138 OFWs and their and The Global Filipino Investors “There have been many developments in the ibang sektor upang magkaroon ng impact ang dependents from OFW Family – Singapore. DOLE Child Labor Prevention and Elimination ating ginagawa. Kailangang pagtulungang Circles in Regions IX, XI and XII The topics include Overseas Program as well as in the Philippine Program lutasin ang ugat ng problema ng child labor – ang who are recipients of the agency’s Migration in Soccsksargen and Ag- Against Child Labor (PPACL). There are new kahirapan. Kung kaya’t ang DOLE ay may mga reintegration programs and ri-related Reintegration Program; policy issuances as well as new initiatives that programa tulad ng pagpapatupad ng tamang other stakeholders participated Investment Opportunities and were launched which we would like to share with pasahod at livelihood programs para maiangat in the event aimed at generating Priority Commodities in Socsksar- you. Since most of the child labor program focal ang kabuhayan ng ating mga manggagawa”, agribusiness ideas for OFWs to gen; Agribusiness Opportunities persons in the regions and provinces are newly Maglunsod said. consider. promoted by DTI in Socsksargen; designated, we planned for this activity in order Under the Philippine Development Plan 2017- The forum featured the and Investment and Business Op- for you to be updated and properly guided in the 2022, the target is to withdraw at least 630,000 practitioners’ experiences and best portunities in Fisheries. implementation of our anti-child labor program,” children from child labor by 2022 or around 30% practices from various government Officer-in-Charge Marlyn Jamero BWSC Director Ma. Karina Perida-Trayvilla told of the 2.1 million children engaged in hazardous agencies and private organizations emphasized in her inspirational participants in the forum. work, according to the 2011 Survey on Children. or individuals who have been message the importance of Undersecretary Joel Maglunsod commended Hence, as a focal agency in the prevention successful in their entrepreneurial agriculture and business in the efforts of BWSC for conducting such activity and and elimination of child labor in the country and endeavor through agriculture. economic development of the highlighted the importance of capacity building as the chairperson of the National Child Labor Rowena Geneta, Chief of country. Further, she said that in program implementation. “Naniniwala ako Committee which serves as the coordinating Agribusiness Promotion Division success in engaging to agribusiness na ang effective and successful implementation mechanism for the implementation of the PPACL, (DA AMAS) said the investment will not depend on the monetary ng isang programa ay nakasalalay sa mga the DOLE commits itself to further conduct forum will also facilitate capital but on one’s hard work and implementers nito. Kung nauunawaan ng mga support activities that will improve the program the linking and matching of passion. implementers ang kanilang ginagawa ay magiging holistically. OFWs’ entrepreneurial skills to The first two forums were held madali para sa kanila ang pagpapatupad nito”, prospective investors. in Iloilo City and Batangas last Speakers from various year. government agencies and non-

dole.gov.ph PHILIPPINE LABOR

October-December 2017 January 2018 • THE REGIONS • 7 White Workers regularized in CL Christmas by Jerry Borja CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – drigo Roa Duterte’s directive to the assumption of the new and similar forms of work for Jollibee Some 22,699 workers were vol- eliminate illegal forms of con- administration. arrangements were subjected to untarily regularized by 246 estab- tracting, ‘endo,’ labor-only con- Dione said the regional and mandatory conferences and were lishments from different parts of tracting, and other similar work field offices continued to adopt assisted in complying with GLS workers Central Luzon, the labor depart- arrangements,” Dione said. various strategies in its pursuit and OSH standards. ment’s office here reported. Of the total workers to eliminate illegal contracting, Dione, who thanked CALAPAN CITY – Some 500 DOLE Regional Director regularized, some 12,689 workers ‘endo’ and LOC schemes. complying establishments for workers of a giant food chain Atty. Ana Dione said the latest were regularized in 2017 by Various leading industries their support and cooperation in MIRAROPA had one of scorecard in reducing illegal around 141 establishments operating within and outside urged more firms to follow suit the best Christmases after the contracting, ‘endo,’ and labor- under the encouragement and of the region’s Freeport and in regularizing their workers. labor department ordered their only contracting (LOC) covers assessment of the DOLE regional Economic Zones were covered “We are hoping that more employers to give them regular 2017 and last few months of 2016. and field offices. under the DOLE’s region-wide establishments will also realize employment status. “Our sights remained focused The remaining workers, on assessments mandated by its the benefits of regularizing This after Jollibee Foods in carrying out the marching or- the other hand, were regularized Labor Laws Compliance System. their workers, who are deemed Corporation and its contractors ders under the Department’s by 105 firms within the last Firms found to be engaging necessary in their day to day in nine branches in the region commitment to President Ro- few months of CY-2016 upon in labor-only contracting operations.” were found to be engaged in labor-only contracting activities. Covered by a compliance TUPAD PROGRAM ORIENTATION. Ms. Elnie Iligan, DILEEP Focal Person, DOLE Palawan order issued by DOLE Regional Field Office, provides the beneficiaries an overview of the Tulong Pangkabuhayan sa Ating Office 4B Director Alvin Villamor Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) Program, during an orientation held at Barangay Bagong were three Jollibee branches in Silang in Puerto Princesa Palawan. Puerto Princesa City in Palawan, five in Oriental Mindoro and one in Romblon. In the order, JFC and its Sci-tech firms in ST three contractors were told to regularize 468 employees as the deployed workers are get regular status performing activities which are directly related to the CALAMBA – Around 750 non-compliance with the Occu- main business operation of the workers in various technology pational Safety and Health Stan- food chain. The principal also firms in CALABARZON will dards as the three principals do exercises full authority in the photo by DOLE-MIMAROPA soon secure their regular not have valid permits to operate performance of work of the employment status after their mechanical and electrical equip- outsourced employees. employers were found to be ment. Labor inspectors in the region violating the right of workers to Cirtek Advanced Technolo- noted violations including the Palawan fire victims security of tenure. gies Solutions Inc. and Fuji Elec- lack of substantial capital of In separate compliance tric Philippines Inc. also do not the contractors as the deployed orders issued by the labor have valid fire safety inspection employees use the principal’s get assistance department’s Regional Office certificates. equipment and tools in the 4A, three advanced technology Cirtek Advanced Technolo- performance of the outsourced PUERTO PRINCESA – More cleaning, tree planting, and other companies based in Laguna – gies and Solutions Inc. is a man- services. than 300 household victims of a similar facilities. Cirtek Advanced Technologies ufacturing solutions partner for Non-compliance with the recent fire that gutted the densely She told the beneficiaries that Solutions Inc., Du Pont Far East telecommunications, satellite Occupational Safety and Health populated coastal area of Purok for the 10-day emergency em- Inc., and Fuji Electric Philippines communications, and semicon- (OSH) Standards was also noted Isdang Bato in Barangay Bagong ployment program, they must Inc. were directed to regularize a ductor test boards while the Du with contractors lacking trained Silang here last month received render work with utmost dili- total of 737 workers after they Pont Far East Inc. is a science- safety officers and failing to wage employment assistance gence. “Kayo po ay maglilinis ng were proven to be engaged in driven innovation firm that re- submit OSH reports. amounting to P1.104 million. lugar na pinaglipatan ninyo. Ob- labor-only contracting activities. packages fungicides, herbicides, Aside from regularizing the With the initiative of the la- ligasyon po ninyo na magtraba- Violations by the companies and insecticides. workers, the DOLE regional of- bor department’s Field Office in ho ng tama dahil ang matatang- were noted following a series of Fuji Electric Philippines Inc. fice also ordered JFC and the partnership with the city govern- gap ninyo na suweldo galing sa inspection by compliance officers is a Japanese electronic firm contractors to pay unauthor- ment, the fire victims were given gobyerno ay nanggaling din sa last year. Some of the violations engaged in the manufacture of ized deductions amounting to Tulong Pangkabuhayan sa Ating ating lahat.” include lack of substantial power semiconductors and other P775,050 to the affected employ- Displaced/Disadvantaged Work- TUPAD is a component of capital on the part of the essential electronic devices in the ees and provide proof of remit- ers (TUPAD) Program assistance. the DOLE Livelihood and Emer- contractors as the employees use fields of industrial equipment, tances with the SSS, Philhealth, Elnie Iligan, Labor and Em- gency Employment Program the principal’s equipment and automobiles, information and Pag-Ibig to secure workers’ ployment Officer III of DOLE (DILEEP). It is a community- tools in the actual performance equipment, and new energy. social welfare benefits. Palawan, gave the recipients an based (municipality/barangay) of their outsourced services. Also, DOLE has ordered the Jollibee and its contractors overview of the TUPAD program package of assistance that pro- The principals also exercise Viewers Mobile Inc., a mobile were also told to immediately and explained to them the nature vides emergency employment control and full authority in provider based in Lucena City, issue appointment letters of assistance. for displaced workers; those who the performance of work of the Quezon to settle unpaid benefits and payroll reflecting the Having been transferred at were self-employed and have lost deployed workers, who work to its workers after it was found entitlements of the affected Barangay Tagburos, they are their livelihood, including farm- alongside regular employees of to be violating general labor workers as regular employees. tasked to clean their relocation ers and fishermen, due to natu- the principals and performing standards of non-payment Jollibee is one of the largest sites such as repair and/or ral or man-made disasters, the the same functions that are of workers statutory benefits fast food chains in the country, improvement of their houses underemployed, and the unem- directly related to the main based on LLCO’s assessments. operating a nationwide network and common public facilities, ployed poor. –Anna Dominique C. businesses. –Abegail V. De Vega of over 750 stores. –Abegail V. De de-clogging of canals, debris Magbanua Other findings include the Vega P10.5-M to underemployed workers by Luchel Senarlo-Taniza CEBU CITY – Almost two thou- (TUPAD), a component of the Luz, Apas, Tejero, Tinago, T. maximum number of fifteen (15) derstanding of the importance of sand underemployed workers DOLE Integrated Livelihood Padilla, Lorega, Carreta, Day-as, days in their respective place of safety while at work,” he said. coming from the city’s North and Emergency Employment Kamagayan, Parian, Sto. Nino, assignment. He also said beneficiaries District received a total of Program (DILEEP). Zapatera, Kalubihan, Banilad, The community-based pack- were enrolled in a group micro- P10,564,290.00 from the labor Beneficiaries were from Cogon Ramos, San Antonio, San age of short-term wage employ- insurance under the Government department as payment for their barangays Talamban, Budlaan, Roque, Sta. Cruz, Pahina Central, ment assistance, Vito said, was Service Insurance System (GSIS). salaries and wages. San Jose, Pulanbato, Binaliw, Sambag 1, Sambag 2, Ermita, done in two batches. “Before the DOLE-7 OIC-Regional Direc- DOLE Field Office OIC- Agsungot, Pit-os, Bacayan, Paril, Kasambagan, and Lahug. beneficiaries commenced work, tor Cyril L. Ticao underscored Head, Dr. Efren O. Vito, said the Lusaran, Cabinocot, Mabini, The beneficiaries received the DOLE provided them first the importance for beneficiaries beneficiaries were provided with Capitol Site, Busay, Kamputhaw, P5,000.00 for engaging either with an orientation on the Safe- to realize what the Department’s the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Malubog, Taptap, Adlaon, Sirao, in de-clogging of canals, street ty and Health Standards. This programs and services truly stand Ating Disadvantaged Workers Guba, Mabolo, Hipodromo, cleaning, or grass cutting for a would give them thorough un- for.

PHILIPPINE LABOR @laborandemployment • THE GOOD NEWS • Kasambahay pay in Davao Ilocos workers get pay hike

By Katrina B. Manlapus by Arly Sta. Ana-Valdez however, are kasambahay or domestic workers; persons em- THE Regional Tripartite Wages Minimum wage earners in ployed in the personal service of and Productivity Board XI has Region 1 got a raise starting this another including family driv- announced the increase in wages month. ers; and workers and employees for kasambahays in Davao region. The regional office of the la- of registered Barangay Micro In Wage Order No. RB XI- bor department announced that Business Enterprises (BMBE) DW-01, the new minimum wage the Regional Tripartite Wages with Certificates of Authority rates for domestic helpers in the and Productivity Board has is- pursuant to Republic Act 9178, region are as follows: P3,000 for sued Wage Order RB1-19 and its as amended. chartered cities and first class Implementing Rules and Regu- “The Board has thought that municipalities and P2,000 for lations granting a P30 increase the new wage adjustments will other municipalities. in the daily wages of workers help set off the anticipated ef- The new rates took effect in Large Non-Agriculture and fects of price hikes on the liv- December 16. Commercial Fishing Establish- ing conditions of our minimum According to the new wage ments. wage earners starting this year,” order, an increase of P1,000 is Workers in Medium Non- Lacambra said. added to the current wage of Agriculture Establishments will Under the existing Wage Or- P2,000 for chartered cities and an photo by Official Gazette get a P20 increase, while those in der RB1-18, the daily minimum increase of P500 from the current Small and Micro Establishments wage rates range from P243 to P1,500 for other municipalities. PAY HIKE FOR KASAMBAHAYS IN DAVAO. Domestic workers in Davao and Agriculture (Plantation and P280, depending on the type of The prescribed wage rates region get additional P1,000 in their salary (for chartered cities) and P500 (for Non-plantation) will receive P13 industry. under this Wage Order shall apply other municipalities) effective December 16, 2017 as the Regional Tripartite per day. He said the board, in crafting to domestic workers, whether Wages and Productivity Board-Region 11 (RTWPB-XI) approved the wage RTWPB-1 Chair and DOLE- the new wage order, considered live-in or live-out arrangements, increase. RO I Regional Director Nathan- the prevailing socio-economic such as, but not limited to, general iel Lacambra said the new wage conditions of the region as well house help, yaya, cook, gardener, of service shall be covered by the above per month, the domestic hike covers all workers or em- as the viability of various busi- laundry person, and any person Social Security System (SSS), worker shall pay the proportionate ployees in the private sector re- nesses. who regularly performs domestic the Philippine Health Insurance share in the premium payments or ceiving the minimum wage rates Public Consultations on the work in one household on an Corporation (PhilHealth) and the contributions, as provided by the irrespective of their positions, wage issue were conducted on occupational basis. Home Development Mutual Fund law. The domestic worker shall be designations or status of em- October 23, 26 and 27, 2017 in The wages of domestic or PAG-IBIG, and shall be entitled entitled to all other benefits under ployment and regardless of the Pangasinan, La Union and Ilo- workers shall be paid at least once to all the benefits in accordance existing law. method by which their wages cos provinces, respectively, to a month in cash. No deductions with the pertinent provisions Non-compliance in the dispos- are paid. gather the positions of both the from the wages shall be allowed provided by law. Premium al of wages of the domestic work- Excluded from the order, labor and management sectors. other than those mandated by payments or contributions shall ers are declared unlawful and law. be shouldered by the employer. shall be punishable by a fine of Under Section 30, Article IV of However, if the domestic not less than Ten Thousand Pesos RA 10361, a domestic worker who worker is receiving a wage of (P10,000) but not more than Forty has rendered at least one (1) month Five Thousand Pesos (P5,000) and Thousand Pesos (P40,000). SPES bridges school, employment by Angelica C. Fresnoza Among the number of em- po ako ng experience na ployment-bridging programs magtrabaho at nakakatulong carried out by the labor depart- po ako sa magulang ko. Natuto ment for the youth, the Special rin po ako maging responsable Program for Employment of at independent.” Llaneta said Students (SPES) is one that fo- in an interview. cuses on the poor yet deserv- Due to his good work ing students and out-of-school values, Llaneta was previously From spa to ‘carinderia’ youth aiming to make them absorbed in Chowking Maysan, financially capable of finishing Valenzuela after his term in By Joni Sarina Mejico their studies and attain a de- SPES. gree, thus gearing them for the “Nagpapasalamat po ako ZAMBOANGA – “Sabi nila Development Authority. business, she was able to send her future. sa DOLE & PESO Valenzuela pag OFW ka, bayani ka kasi In late June, Zandra received her child to a private school, sustain her Thru SPES, the qualified para sa opportunity na nakakapagpadala ka sa magulang starter kit composed of materials family’s daily needs and afford to mo, sa mga kamag-anak mo pero intended for commercial cooking. go on a vacation once in a while. beneficiaries are given the binigay nila sakin, ang laki hanggang kailan?,” Zandra said. Today, 44-year old Zandra Zandra, from working in a spa, opportunity for employment po ng naitulong nila para sa Zandra Amilhamja was 24 years has a “carinderia” at Sangali Fish has been passionate on beauty- for a minimum period of 20 patuloy na paghubog ng aking old when she went to Brunei in 1997. Port in Zamboanga City. She said related services. She will be opening up to a maximum of 78 work pagkatao at magkaroon ng She worked as spa attendant at Nur she already bought the rights of her own salon in Sangali next year. days except during Christmas ganitong oportunidad para Berjaya Spa in Kuala Belait. Going to the stall. She earns P8,000 a day She said her story was that of vacation, during which the makapagtrabaho...” he said. work every day and sending money and employs four relatives to help perseverance. allowable duration should not “Mas lalo po akong na- to the Philippines was routinary her run the eatery. Through her exceed 15 days. enlighten at na-intensify for her. But she had no savings and In CAMANAVA alone, po ang kagustuhan kong there were even instances when 367 beneficiaries were given makapagtapos ng pag-aaral she had to ask her employer for employment opportunities in dahil na rin sa programang cash advances to defray her ailing different private establishments SPES,” he also said. parent’s medical bills. like Chowking, McDonald’s, DOLE-CAMANAVA Field “Kasi hindi naman habangbuhay etc. Office SPES Coordinator Ms. nasa abroad ka… while nasa abroad ka mag-ipon ka para pagdating mo The program not only Jesusa Raymundo said it is dito, hindi ka nganga,” she said serves as financial aid for the rewarding on the part of the After 16 years of working youth, but also gives them SPES project implementers to overseas with no valid work work experience. With such see that they are instrumental permit on her last years of stay in opportunity, others rise to the in augmenting the finances of Brunei, she finally went back to the occasion in performing the the youth beneficiaries who Philippines in 2013. tasks at hand. strive to attain a degree. And to While scrolling through her Among the hard-working know that SPES paved the way Facebook feed, she saw a friend’s youth who showed great for some youth like Llaneta to post regarding the program of the potentials through SPES is continue their studies while National Reintegration Center for Cyril Llaneta, an 18-year old contributing to their family’s OFWs (NRCO) and asked her friend resident of Valenzuela City and finances even after the work about it. She was referred to NRCO a student of Sta. Cecilia College duration in SPES program in 2016. In April last year, she attended taking up Bachelor of Science is even more liberating, she a Financial Awareness Seminar Information Technology. added. photo by DOLE RO-IX and Small Business Training and “Nakatulong po ng malaki Chowking is among went on to join a Basic Cooking BENEFICIARY STARTS HER OWN CARINDERIA. Zandra Amilhamja, one of yung SPES sa akin. Bukod sa DOLE’s partners in the imple- Course conducted in partnership the many beneficiaries of government’s reintegration program, serves home- financial aspect, nagkaroon mentation of SPES. with Technical Education and Skills cooked dishes in her carinderia business in Zamboanga.