NCR gears up for 4IR P7

Photo by Dodong Echavez, IPS GOV'T POSITIVE THE REGIONS Negros Occ. Gov to PESOs : Help ease ON PHL LABOR FORCE foreign deployment THE administration of President is optimistic in pushing the growth of the country’s P7 labor force. Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo cites robust employment data driven by agressive government job-generation efforts at the National Public Employment Service Office (PESO) Congress in Bacolod City. P2

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Marawi Photo by The Visayan Daily Star combatants get PALACE LAUDS DOLE. Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo receives a plaque of appreciation from Labor Secretary cash assistance P6 Silvestre Bello III during the opening of the 19th National PESO Congress in Bacolod City. Looking on are OIC-Assistant Secretary Dominique Tutay and PESO Managers Association of the Philippines President Norman Victor Ortiz. In his keynote message, Panelo lauds DOLE for boosting the country’s labor force.

Photo by Nikkei Asia GOOD NEWS ECC bags ASEAN SSA award P8 Employers urged to hire PWDs to gain tax perks Rebel returnees by Connie C. Gonzales IN A BID to further encourage the for work of equal value. establishments that employ PWDs as private sector to actively participate While government offices or regular employee, apprentice or learner, now DILEEP in promoting the welfare of disabled corporations are required under the to be enforced by DOLE Regional persons and to ensure their gainful law to reserve one percent of their work Offices. employment, Secretary Silvestre Bello positions to PWDs, private entities are Under the implementing rules and beneficiaries III recently issued Administrative merely encouraged to reserve at least one regulations (IRR) of RA 10525, private THE labor department has allotted an Order No. 391, series of 2019 or the percent of their job positions to PWDs, if companies that employ PWDs who meet initial P100-million emergency employment Revised Guidelines on the Issuance of they have more than 100 employees. the required skills or qualifications, shall fund to Mindanao rebel returnees for their Certification/Accreditation of Private Bello added that the slackening of the be entitled to a gross income deduction speedy transformation into productive Entities Employing PWDs for Purposes reservation rule for private companies equivalent to 25% of the total amount members of the society. of Availing Tax Incentives. is understandable because private paid as salaries and wages to PWDs. This, after DOLE has signed an Bello said Republic Act 7277 or the capital is involved in these industries To be able to avail of these tax agreement with Office of the Presidential Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, and the government cannot dictate on privileges, the companies concerned are Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), amended by RA 9442 , and RA 10524 or their owners on who to or who not to obliged to present proof from DOLE on extending the DOLE Integrated Livelihood an Act Expanding the Positions Reserved employ, as long as they do not violate the employment status of the PWDs, and Emergency Program (DILEEP), aimed for PWDs, all aim to make PWDs as the labor laws. while the latter have been accredited by to assist the socio-economic development productive members of our society by Contained in the said AO is the latest DOLE and the Department of Health and build confidence of an estimated 7,000 providing them equal opportunity for general guidelines on the issuance of (DOH) as to their disability, skills and decommissioned MILF combatants. employment and equal remuneration DOLE Certificate/Accreditation for qualifications. P2 2 October 2019 Rebel returnees now DILEEP beneficiaries . . . from P1 CL PESOs stand out Bello said that the initiatives aimed to support the partnership is focused on Duterte administration’s agenda assisting former rebels to transition of just and lasting peace by into civilian lives, and facilitate reaching out to former rebels and in the national tilt their transformation as well as the provide them with sustainable six MILF camps into peaceful and livelihood and employment productive communities through opportunities as the best solution employment facilitation, and to the root causes of violent sustainable livelihood assistance. extremism. Under the agreement signed Meanwhile, Galvez noted by Bello and Presidential Peace DOLE as the first government Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr., DOLE agency, along with TESDA, to be will assist on the implementation on hand in the implementation of of the Comprehensive Agreement the CAB Normalization Program on the Bangsamoro (CAB) of transforming six MILF camps Normalization Program through into peaceful and resilient the provision of emergency communities. employment under its TUPAD “We hope that through this program. collaboration, DOLE will continue photo by DOLE RO 3 Also, DOLE will provide to provide support during employment facilitation programs the succeeding stages of the CENTRAL LUZON BAGS TRIPLE HALL OF FAME. Labor and Employment Secretary “Winning half of the eight and services to the former rebels normalization program and bring Silvestre Bello III eagerly joins the awardees of the Search for Best PESO during the Awards categories set by the Bureau of under the Government Internship us closer to our vision of achieving Night of the 19th PESO Congress in Bacolod City. Besting other PESOs nationwide, Tarlac Local Employment is another province, cities of Olongapo and Mabalacat in Pampanga, and Bulacan State University Program and Special Program for ensuring peace and sustainable were recognized for their exemplary delivery of employment facilitation services, and achievement for DOLE RO 3 this Employment of Students. development in Bangsamoro,” were elevated to the Hall of Fame status. The awardees as flanked by the officials of year. Together with the DOLE The labor chief said the Galvez said. –Abegail V. De Vega DOLE Region 3: Leilani Reynoso of Bataan Field Office (extreme left), DOLE RO 3 Director provincial field offices and their Zenaida Campita (third), Reynante Lugtu of Zambales (sixth), May Lyn Gozun of Bulacan respective local government units, (seventh), Joey Sicat of Aurora (eight) and Arlene Tolentino of Pampanga we were able to build a strong team,” Angara-Campita, added. CENTRAL Luzon Public Valenzuela City, and Cebu City in Other nominees for Central Employment Service Offices the highly urbanized city (HUC) Luzon were PESO Llanera in (PESOs) bagged various awards category. Together with Valenzuela the 3rd to 4th class municipality in the recently concluded Search City, the city of Olongapo was category and PESO Lubao in for Best PESO Awards Night hailed as hall of famer for besting the 1st to 2nd class municipality held in Bacolod City. other nominees in three straight category. Recognizing exemplars for years. All nominees were rated on the the genuine work performance Another winner for Central following criteria: core services, and their valuable contributions Luzon is PESO Mabalacat which DOLE programs implemented, to the delivery of quality placed first in the component city institutionalization, awards employment facilitation services category and was also elevated in received, and active involvement. across the country, Labor and the Hall of Fame. BulSU, Tarlac, Olongapo, Employment Secretary Silvestre The province of Tarlac, Mabalacat and other national- H. Bello III said that Central which is distinguished by its level winners each received a photo by Dodong Echavez, IPS Luzon stood out during the remarkable performance on various trophy, a plaque for the PESO and most awaited part of the 19th employment services, triumphed in local government unit, and cash National PESO Congress. the 1st class province category for incentives. DEAL. Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III and Office of Presidential Adviser on the Peace Four out of six entries the second time and will be vying as The Labor Chief said that Process (OPAPP) Secretary Carlito Galvez sign the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro Normalization Program which provides livelihood and emergency of rebel submitted by Central Luzon a hall of famer for the said category over the years, the PESO returnees and their communities. were hailed winners with three next year. Congress has served as a fitting of them enshrined in the Hall of PESO Province of Aurora and venue for PESO Managers and Fame. PESO Talavera, Nueva Ecija also Local Chief Executives to draw The first award recipient, received special citations as top innovative insights not only in Bulacan State University users and advocates of PESO employment facilitation but in Gov't positive on PHL (BulSU), tied with University Employment Information System multi-dimensional front-line of Batangas as the Best Job (PEIS) in the 3rd class province services, which provides people Placement Office (JPO) against and 1st to 2nd class municipality with livelihood, labor market other NGOs, educational category, respectively. trends and information, training from P1 labor force . . . institutions, and community- DOLE RO 3 Director Zenaida and other capability building based organizations. BulSU Angara-Campita said that this feat initiatives. Panelo noted the significant Spokesperson explained. was declared a hall of famer wouldn’t be possible without the The 19th National PESO change of the numbers in the The President’s recent trip for bagging the award for the PESOs’ hardwork and dedication congress held on October 9 to 11, labor force since the start of the to Russia also resulted to the third time in a row, along with to champion the implementation 2019 is anchored on the theme, “Sa Duterte administration. “In fact, signing of over P620 million University of Batangas. of DOLE-initiated employment PESO may Disenteng Trabaho ang employment rate remains at the in business deals, most of Meanwhile, it was a three- facilitation programs at the Bawat Pilipino.” –Aira Cunanan, peak of 94.5 percent in July this which, will create more jobs way tie for Olongapo City, grassroots level. DOLE RO 3 year,” he said. and economic opportunities for “This is attributed to the . numerous local and international Bello on the other hand said investors, which, in turn yield to that Public Employment Service job generation”, Panelo added. Offices (PESOs) contribute to Displaced Star City Citing a report by the not less than 20 percent of the Philippine Statistics Authority employment generated across the (PSA), Panelo said, “as country. unemployment rate remains “Our PESOs are necessary to stagnant at 5.5 percent in April underscore the need to strengthen workers get TUPAD this year, underemployment the link between the labor and our THE labor department has for displaced workers, employees are left on a ‘no work, plummeted from 17.2 percent in local government units because made available P5.5 million underemployed, and seasonal no pay’ situation. July 2018, to 13.9 percent in the they generate employment in emergency employment workers. The assistance is similar While officials of Star City same period this year”. information, job matching, and assistance to about 500 workers of to that provided to employees of said that the amusement park Furthermore, the efforts employment opportunities,” Star City who were displaced as the gutted NCCC Mall in Davao might only reopen October 2020, on the Anti-Endo or End of Bello stated. a result of the fire that razed the City last year, those affected by displacement of affected workers, Contract campaign led to the The 19th National PESO popular amusement park shortly the eruption of Mayon Volcano who are mostly performing regularization of over 460,000 in Congress, with the theme “Sa after midnight of October 2, 2019. also in 2018, and the six-month administrative works, may run the first three years of the current PESO May Disenteng Trabaho The assistance, under the closure of Boracay. for over six months. administration. “Of course, ang Bawat Pilipino”, was held Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Based on initial reports In order to help ease the we expect the number to rise on October 9-11, 2019, and Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced submitted by Bureau of Local anxiety of the affected workers, the Workers (TUPAD) program, Employment Director and OIC Public Employment Service Office following the President’s signing convened some 1,500 participants will be extended to the affected Assistant Secretary Dominique (PESO) of Pasay will conduct a and issuance of Executive Order from the DOLE, Job Placement workers for two months. Rubia-Tutay, together with the profiling and assessment on the 51 which seeks to fortify the Offices (JPOs), PESOs, and local TUPAD is an emergency findings of the Quick Response displaced workers for potential constitutional right to security government units. –Connie C. employment program Team (QRT) of the DOLE National alternative employment. –Althea of tenure of all workers,” the Gonzales Capital Region (NCR), some 500 Louise D. Majan

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October-December 2017 Octoberber 2019 3 POLO Taiwan's LGUs urged anew to install own PESOs plan on tradegy UNDERSCORING the labor efficient delivery of employment department’s push towards services and information on DOLE by Althea Louise D. Majan stronger employment facilitation, programs. Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello To ensure their continued THE labor department extends its III urged local government operation and sustainability, the sympathies to the families of the units to institutionalize Public amended PESO law mandates Filipino workers who perished on Employment Service Offices PESO institutionalization and board a fishing vessel crushed by (PESOs). establishment of computerized a collapsed bridge in Nanfang-ao, This, as PESO managers and systems for improved labor market Yilan County, Taiwan. staff, led by the PESO Managers information and employment The workers, identified as Association of the Philippines facilitation service. Andree Abregana Serencio and (PESOMAP), legislators, local chief To date, 504 PESOs are now Gorge Jagmis Impang were executives, and DOLE officials institutionalized, out of the 1,926 confirmed dead, while another gather at the SMX Convention established PESOs in the country. worker, Romulo Ilustrisimo Center in Bacolod City for the 19th Mindful that there are still LGUs Escalicas Jr. remains missing. The National PESO Congress. which have yet to institutionalize search and retrieval operation is Bello commended the local their PESOs, the labor chief photo by Ramon Perez, BLE still on-going on the site of the chief executives who “pushed reiterated the government’s accident. a growth program and worked overarching goal of inclusive BELLO TO LGUs: INSTALL OWN PESOs. More than 1,500 PESO Managers attend the 19th Five other Filipino workers relentlessly to get the economy growth and development. National PESO Congress last October 9-11, 2019 at the SMX Convention Center in Bacolod were injured and were brought growing by putting premium “Walang dapat maiwan. City. In his message to the employment facilitators, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III urged to the hospital for immediate on employment in their policy Whether one belongs to the first them to persevere in their mission to provide decent work to every Filipino and enjoined treatment and medical attention. agenda.” or sixth class city or municipality, more Local Government Units to install their own PESOs in their areas of jurisdiction. They are Julio Gimawa, Jason He likewise lauded the PESOs dapat may institutionalized PESO Villaruel, Allan Alcansano, John for being the labor department’s na ang bawat isa. That way, we to make their presence felt across Dominique Tutay said that Vicente Royo and June Flores. partners in advancing the decent can look forward to economic the country through “improved, notable developments in the PESO Officials at the Philippine work agenda at the grassroots. growth distributed fairly across innovative, and quality-sustained institutionalization efforts will be Overseas Labor Office (POLO) Under the supervision of society and create opportunities multi-employment facilitation tackled during the Congress. in Taiwan visited the victims at LGUs and the technical support of and decent jobs to every Filipino,” service to the public.” Among these initiatives are the the hospital and provided their the DOLE, the PESOs are tasked Bello said. Meanwhile, Bureau of Local involvement of the Civil Service immediate needs and personal to ensure prompt, timely, and He also encouraged the PESOs Employment (BLE) Director Commission in the establishment requirements. and publication of the PESO The POLO in Taiwan is Qualification Standards and also facilitating the immediate the ongoing implementation repatriation of the remains of Culture of productivity of the DOLE-DILG-PESOMAP Serencio and Impang. Memorandum of Agreement On instructions of Labor towards PESO institutionalization. Secretary Silvestre Bello III, Held every October, the all possible assistance will be pushed; best MSMEs honored National PESO Congress is extended to the family of those highlighted by the conferment killed in the incident. Death of the Best PESO Awards, an and other benefits will also be EMPHASIZING on the for championing productivity and 1 Electric Cooperative Inc., annual activity that recognizes provided. importance of productivity for serving as inspiration for the (Cagayan Valley region) for the the outstanding accomplishments Scholarship benefits will be in enterprises, the labor Department to continuously help industry sector. of PESOs in the implementation extended to the victims’ children. department recognized eight enterprises and workers alike in Also recognized were Coffee of DOLE employment facilitation POLO Taiwan is on top of the micro, small, and medium promoting their mutual interests for Peace (Davao Region), programs. situation and providing necessary enterprises (MSMEs) which that contribute to economic Baguio-Benguet Community This year’s congress banners and extended assistance to have demonstrated business and development. Credit Cooperative (Cordillera “Sa PESO, May Disenteng the affected workers and their resource management excellence The productivity programs Administrative Region), and JMH Trabaho ang Bawat Pilipino.” families to recover from the and productivity improvement at of MSMEs were evaluated Microfinance, Inc. (Bicol Region) –Althea Louse D. Majan unfortunate incident. the 2019 Productivity Olympics. based on their impact on for the service sector. Spearheaded by the National business performance, workers’ The national winners each Wages and Productivity participation in the program, received P100,000, a trophy, and Commission (NWPC) and its and the adoption of gainsharing priority endorsements to other Regional Tripartite Wages and practices. DOLE training programs and HK OFWs told: Productivity Boards (RTWPBs), Among this year’s awardees services. the event is a biennial national were Jida Aqua Resources Special citations were also competition that fetes the best (Caraga Region) and Vicky’s Pili given to the following MSME Stay cautious, vigilant productivity improvement and Food Products (Bicol Region) finalists for their notable business programs among MSMEs. for the agribusiness sector; and performance: HHS Leather Goods by Teephanie D. Laderas Speaking at the national Bahi Enterprises (Bicol Region), Enterprises (CALABARZON), awarding ceremony in Malate, 3D Container and Packaging Narda’s Handwoven Arts and THE labor department is In the latest advisory , DOLE Acting Secretary Philippines Corporation Crafts, Inc. (CAR), and Cagayan reiterating its advisory to all issued by the Philippine Claro Arellano lauded the MSMEs (CALABARZON), and Cagayan Appliance Center (Cagayan Filipino workers in Hongkong Consulate General in Hong Valley Region). to stay cautious and vigilant in Kong, among the reported The Regional Tripartite Wages the face of escalating protests areas where protests are to and Productivity Board-Bicol was and public disruptions in the be held are: Tsim Sha Tsui also recognized as the 2019 Best semi-autonomous Chinese Police Station (10 October); Regional Board. territory. New Town Plaza Shatin (12 NWPC Executive Director Ma. Labor Secretary Silvestre October); Victoria Park and Criselda Sy said that the labor Bello III received fresh reports Edinburgh Place (13 October); department aims to inculcate of series of protest actions Edinburgh Place and Chater a ‘culture of productivity’ resulting to disruptions in Garden (14 October); among MSMEs through training public transport and business Resumption of Legislative programs and technical assistance activities in various parts of Council (16 October); The being provided by the NWPC. the region prompting him to Riverpark Tai Wai to Shatin She emphasized the need appeal anew to OFWs for their (20 October); Yuen Long MTR to help MSMEs improve their safety and security. Station (21 October); Tamar photo by Ramon Perez, BLE performance and enhance The Philippine labor Park Admiralty (26 October); competitiveness given that they office continues to monitor Prince Edward MTR Station BEST MSMEs. The DOLE, led by Acting Secretary Claro Arellano (standing, fourth from left), play an important role in the value developments in the area. (31 October). recognize eight micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with the best productivity chain as they comprise the bulk of “We are again urging all The labor chief also improvement programs during the 2019 Productivity Olympics at the Sheraton Manila Bay enterprises in the country. our OFWs in Hong Kong to discouraged Filipinos working Hotel in Malate, Manila. Among the awardees are Jida Aqua Resources (Caraga region) and Sy also hopes that more Vicky’s Pili and Food Products (Bicol region) for the agribusiness sector; Bahi Enterprises exercise caution by staying in Hong Kong from wearing (Bicol region), 3D Container and Packaging Philippines Corporation (CALABARZON), and MSMEs will join the Productivity indoors and keeping away white or black colored upper Cagayan 1 Electric Cooperative Inc., (Cagayan Valley) for the industry sector; and Coffee Olympics slated in 2021, which will from the locations where garments while on the streets for Peace (Davao region), Baguio-Benguet Community Credit Cooperative (CAR), and JMH focus on the application of digital protest activities are taking to avoid being mistaken as Microfinance, Inc. (Bicol) for the service sector. Also gracing the event are National Wages technologies in productivity place,” the labor Secretary protesters and avert untoward and Productivity Commission Executive Director Ma. Criselda Sy, OIC-Undersecretary Joji improvement programs. –Althea said. incidents. Aragon, Assistant Secretary Alex Avila, Undersecretary Ana Dione, and Assistant Secretary Louise D. Majan Mariano Alquiza,on October 04,2019.

PHILIPPINE LABOR @laborandemployment 4 October 2019 The heart and soul of public service IN the world of public policy and produce results amidst an ever- is therefore not an easy task. DOLE Director for Legal people today are motivated governance, the only constant evolving landscape. We must Through the support that Service, Atty. Philip A. Paredes by what they get in return we is change. Budgets get cut. assume these challenges, develop public servants provide shares his thoughts on the should learn to help with no Resources shrink. People come alternative solutions, and remain to the government, they role of the Public Service expectation or repayment; for and go. But as public servants, positive during hard times. contribute in a fundamental in providing justice, peace, we shall be repaid with joy and we must be able to respond Based on this principle, way to good government, to order and good government. fulfilment in countless other accordingly and continue to working in the government democracy, and to society. “Foremost among the qualities ways”. He added that “when we that a good public servant help others without expectation must possess is compassion of anything in return, we begin and commitment. Both are to feel more fulfilled, more regarded as the foundation for complete, and more alive”. “Public service is good people skills, whereby one Atty. Paredes also said that perceives another’s problem “As public servants, I always not measured by and genuinely wants to help believe that living for the people resolve the problem”, he said. we are mandated to serve help the recognition we A lawyer by profession, us find great freedom and inner Director Paredes puts premium peace”, adding that “joy and receive but by the to compassion in serving the fulfilment is found not in being public for “without compassion, served, but in choosing to serve”. fulfilment we feel a public servant cannot put This principle, according to himself in the shoes of the Director Paredes, is reflected when we serve publics that he serves, or will in the famous quote of his not be able to fully understand favourite American poet, Ralph other people.” the issues that they face, hence, Waldo Emerson: “The purpose will not be able to provide the of life is not to be happy. It is to best solutions”, he explained. be useful, to be honourable, to Atty. Philip A. Paredes For Director Paredes, service be compassionate, and to have Director IV, Legal Service to others results to a life of less it make some difference that frustration and anxiety. He you have lived, and lived well.” furthered that “while most –Connie C. Gonzales

Bello slams Sharing responsive GAD efforts by Abegail V. De Vega 2-year proby THE labor department, as has incorporated gender and among the most distinguished development perspective in its period for responsive agencies in promoting key programs. gender equality and women’s Trayvilla emphasized empowerment shared its DOLE’s effective preparation, workers best GAD practices with Thai implementation, monitoring, Executive Editor | RAUL M. FRANCIA delegates in support of the latter’s and evaluation of GAD Plan and LABOR Secretary Silvestre Bello gender mainstreaming efforts. Budget that resulted in improved Editor-in-Chief | GERRY S. RUBIO III rejected the proposal extending Labor Secretary Silvestre gender-responsive efforts in the worker’s probationary period Bello III welcomed the Thai addressing gender inequality in Issue Editor | CORAZON C. GONZALES from six months to two years, delegates on their four-day areas of employment facilitation, Senior Writers | ABEGAIL V. DE VEGA | TEEPHANIE D. LADERAS saying it will deny the workers’ GAD study visit, as well as labor standards, social protection ALTHEA LOUISE D. MAJAN | PETER PAUL R. ANG right to security of tenure. acknowledged their initiatives and welfare, and labor relations. Contributing Writers | HERSHEY AQUINO, NCR | PATRICK RILLORTA, CAR “I don’t think it’s necessary in learning DOLE’s gender- The significant contributions ARLY STA. ANA-VALDEZ, RO1 | REGINALD ESTIOCO, RO2 for a worker to undergo a fair practices and strategies in of DOLE in uplifting the socio- JELYN ABELLA, RO3 | FRANZ RAYMOND AQUINO, RO4-A probationary period of two years promoting women’s rights and economic status of women were EMMANUEL ANTONIO PORTUGAL, RO4-B | JOHANA VI GASGA, RO5 for an employer to determine economic empowerment within also highlighted, particularly NIEZEL ANEN SABRIDO, RO6 | LUCHEL TANIZA, RO7 his qualification. Six months is its mandate. its efforts in the passage of NORMA RAE COSTIMIANO, RO8 | KAREN CLAIRE GRAFIA, RO9 enough,” Bello said. “Upholding gender equality Expanded Maternity Leave The labor chief said two MILDRED DABLIO, RO10 | EDUARDO MONREAL, RO11 has always been an area of Law, and Occupational Safety CHRISTOPHER GAMBOA, RO12 | OLGA VIRGINIA DEMATA, CARAGA years probationary period is too consideration in DOLE’s key and Health Standards Law, that long for a worker to secure a policies and programs. We are promote gender equality and Creative Artists | VERONICA C. CASIL | RAMJAE VON J. ESCOBER permanent employment, against grateful to share our experiences, good working condition for Photographers | JOMAR S. LAGMAY | ALEJANDRO P. ECHAVEZ the administration’s policy of practices, and strategies in Filipino workers. providing job security. GAD mainstreaming for our DOLE, as GADtimpala Bronze Circulation Manager | GIRLIE MARLYN E. ARCE “Delaying a worker’s collaborative efforts in addressing Awardee of the Philippine Circulation Assistants | MADELYN D. DOMETITA | RANDY F. FERNANDEZ assurance of permanent gender inequality,” Bello said. Commission on Women, was employment is no longer in BWSC Director Karen among the chosen agencies to be keeping with the administration’s Trayvilla led the learning session visited by the Thai delegates for policy on security of tenure,” The PHILIPPINE LABOR is the official publication of the and shared with the officers improved collaborative efforts in Department of Labor and Employment Bello said. and members of Thailand’s Gender Responsive Budgeting with editorial office at the He also said that the proposal Women’s Affairs and Family and Implementation, under Information and Publication Service 1st Floor, OPLE Building, Intramuros, Manila. might encourage illegal practice Development Department, and the Philippines-Thailand Joint of contractualization, such as the Ministry of Social Development Partnership Program. practice of “endo”, as employers and Human Security, how DOLE can terminate the workers within two years, which limits a workers’ right to statutory benefits as a regular employee. Under the law, workers are Readers’ queries, comments, and suggestions are welcome. given six months probationary Mail or fax them in, or call us at telephone numbers 527-3000 loc. 620, 621, 622, period and shall be considered a 623, 625, 626, 627. regular employee after the lapse Our fax number is 527-3446. of the period. You may also visit our website: www.dole.gov.ph; or e-mail us at [email protected]. A bill in the House proposes to extend the maximum prescribed period of probationary employment to 24 months. COLLABORATIVE EFFORTS ON GENDER MAINSTREAMING. Labor Secretary Silvestre The proponent said six Bello III welcomes Thai delegates on their Gender and Development study visit to DOLE, as months probationary period he shares the department’s experiences and practices in promoting gender equality within is not enough to determine a its mandate. Along with the secretary (from L-R) are Undersecretary Ana Dione, Financial Management Service (FMS) Director Warren Miclat, and National Reintegration Center for worker’s qualification for regular photo by Alejandro Echavez, IPS OFWs (NRCO) OIC-Director Roel Martin, Bureau of Workers with Special Concerns (BWSC) employment. –Abegail V. De Vega Director Karina Trayvilla, at the DOLE Intramuros, Manila on October 15,2019.

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October-December 2017 Octoberber 2019 • OVERSEAS • 5 Consulate, POLO-LA bring 5k jobs in Europe for Pinoys

financial literacy to OFWs LABOR Secretary Silvestre bidding in grave disregard finding team, noted that the LOS ANGELES – Over 70 Future”; and Filipino American Bello III ordered the of the procedures of the previous database system Filipinos and Filipino-Americans Chamber of Commerce of Greater cancellation of what he called Philippine procurement law. used by POLO Hong Kong from Southern California Los Angeles (FACCLA) President, a “midnight deal” entered Bello also ordered a formal from 2009 to 2018, which was benefitted from the partnership of Ms. Ellen Samson, who shared her into by a recalled labor official probe of former Hong Kong provided by Employeasy, had the Philippine Consulate General expertise through a presentation in Hong Kong and a supplier Labor Attaché Jalilo de la Torre no authority from the then and the Philippine Overseas Labor entitled, “Franchising as a Form of of an online system for the to establish his administrative DOLE secretary. Office (POLO) - Los Angeles's first Investment in the Philippines.” reporting and processing of and criminal liability. Also, there were no financial literacy seminar held Philippine Trade Commis- contracts of overseas Filipino Last month, Bello documents that would show on 17 October 2019 in Torrance, sioner Eric Elnar also presented workers in the autonomous constituted a fact-finding team the conduct of bidding to California. the Philippine Trade and Indus- Chinese territory. to look into issues involving replace the expired contract Consul General Adelio try Center’s program dubbed, The decision came POLO officials and systems of Employeasy Limited with Angelito Cruz, in his welcome “Trabaho, Negosyo, Kabuhayan” following the investigation providers Employeasy the supposed new service remarks, highlighted the (Employment, Entrepreneurship, into the reported irregularities Limited and Polaris Tools, provider Polaris Tools, importance of promoting financial and Livelihood). His discussion in the procurement of the both computer systems indicating “manifest haste and literacy. He cited a survey focused on the entrepreneurial database system from Polaris providers in Hong Kong. lack of transparency attendant conducted by the World Bank programs of the Department of Tools Ltd. which was found to Undersecretary Claro to the said bidding,” he added. in 2015 that revealed only two Trade and Industry (DTI) and tips have been done without public Arellano, head of the fact- . –Paul R. Ang percent of Filipino adults could for Filipino-Americans on how to correctly answer seven financial become smarter and more suc- literacy-related questions. cessful entrepreneurs. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas During the Question and (BSP) finds the result of the survey Answer portion, participants Bahrain-based OFW places alarming as it reflects the need expressed interest in the for Filipinos to be educated on Philippine government’s current financial management to protect recruitment policy and efforts to th their hard-earned money. combat human trafficking. 4 in 2019 LEPT It was also an opportunity for The Q & A was moderated by AN OFW in Bahrain placed fields covered by the examination, professional licenses without the Consul General to introduce Mr. Frederick Alain Docdocil, a fourth in the Licensure Dentistry and Registered having to travel to another to the Filipino-American commu- FACC-SLAA member and one of Examination for Professional Electronics showed the highest country, thereby, saving time and nity Post’s Labor Attaché, Armi the chosen participants for this Teachers (LEPT) recently held at passing rate of 100 percent expenses. Evangel Peña and her Administra- year’s Filipino Young Leaders the Ahlia University in Manama, followed by Architecture at 83 Licensed Filipino workers tive Officer, Atty. Miguel Ignacio Program (FYLPRO). Kingdon of Saudi Arabia. percent and Master Electrician at are likewise better positioned to Maria Castriciones. POLO also partnered with Rossana Manuel Ong, leads 57 percent. compete in Bahrain labor market Labor Attaché Peña provided the Filipino-American Chamber 63 other successful examinees of Now on its second year, the given the stringent rules of the the audience with an overview of of Commerce of SouthBay Los the POLO-L.A. and encouraged Angeles (FACC-SLAA), a Filipino the Special Professional Licensure SPLE is managed by two staff country imposed against foreign the participants to avail of POLO community organization aiming Examination (SPLE). from the Professional Regulation workers without appropriate services. to foster cooperation among An English major, Ong earned Commission (PRC). It is a professional licenses and Other speakers included City of Filipino entrepreneurs as they her graduate degree at the joint initiative of the Philippine credentials. Carson Planning Commissioner, implement programs that hone University of the Philippines Embassy and POLO-Bahrain A mass oath-taking of the Mr. Alex Cainglet, who delivered their entrepreneurial skills. in Diliman. She scored 83 in a continuing response to the successful examinees in various a presentation entitled, “Planning –POLO Los Angeles percent and tied with three other increasing demand of many professions is being organized Ahead and Saving for a Better examinees for the 4th highest professional groups to establish by the Philippine Professional place in LEPT-Secondary. a testing center in the country for Organization (PPO) at the Overall, the SPLE passing the benefit of their non-licensed embassy before the year ends. rate in Manama, Bahrain stood at members. Headed by its Chairman, 31 percent which is five notches The initiative is highly lauded Manolo Lacuata, the PPO is higher than the 26 percent passing by many Filipino professionals the umbrella organization of rate in the 2018 SPLE. in Bahrain as they are afforded all professional groups and is Among the 16 professional with the opportunity to acquire a valuable partner of the Post particularly in the massive information dissemination. It Consul General Adelio Angelito Cruz (fourth from left) is joined by Labor Attache’ Armi Evangel aims to mobilize at least 300 Peña of POLO-Los Angeles, USA (second from right), POLO Administrative Officer, Atty. Miguel prospective examinees for 2020, Ignacio Castriciones, Philippine Trade Commissioner Eric Alnar, and other Embassy Officials which is the minimum number and Staff in Los Angeles, during the First Financial Literacy Seminar for Filipinos in Southern required by PRC, and in order for California, held on October 21, 2019 in Torrance, California. The Seminar was primarily the country to remain as a testing photo by POLO-L.A. conducted to educate Filipinos and Fil-Ams on financial management to protect their hard- earned money and on how to become smarter and more successful entrepreneurs. center for SPLE. –POLO Bahrain PH,Korea celebrate 70 years of bilateral relations

THE Philippines’ participation sense of community, patriotism, has led to partnerships in many to reach a deal on a bilateral free job opportunities and inevitably at the 2019 Itaewon Global social integration, and unity of our areas, from government-to- trade agreement (FTA) by next raise the Filipino’s standard of Village Festival is one of the Filipino workers in Korea”, Labor government cooperation to vibrant month, perceived to attract larger living. –Connie Gonzales with report commemorative activities of Attache’ to Republic of Korea Ma. people-to-people exchange”, said investments that could open up from POLO-Korea the Philippine Embassy to Celeste Valderrama, said. Won. celebrate the 70th Anniversary The parade showcased the Korea is the fourth largest of the establishment of PH-ROK local Higantes Festial of Angono, trading partner of the Philippines diplomatic relations. as well as local Filipino and the third largest foreign POLO Korea played a key traditional dances such as tinikling investor in the country, with role in providing internal and and bulaklakan. foreign direct investment standing external coordination and logistic According to Philippine at $59.5 million, buoyed by the support, specifically in mobilizing Ambassador to Korea, Noe Wong, Build Build Build program of the the participation of the more than the commemorative occasion is Duterte administration. 400 Filipino community leaders considered as the Embassy’s main The Philippines on the and members, most of whom event in celebrating 70 years of other hand, is the third major are Filipinos working in Korea, bilateral relations between the two beneficiary of Korean grants in making the Philippine contingent countries. the world, having received more as the largest among 14 countries Mayor Sung Jang Hyun than $260 million in grant aid to that participated in the Global of Yongsan-gu expressed the country since 1991 through the parade. appreciation to the Philippine Korean International Cooperation This Filipino community government for allowing the Agency. photo by POLO-Korea activity in Korea did not only traditional performance group Indeed, Korea is proud to deepen the culture and friendship and parade team to liven up the be a part of the Philippines’ Philippine contingent to the 2019 Itaewon Global Village Festival commemorates the 70th between the Philippines and Korea festival parade. economic development. To this Anniversary of the establishment of Philippines-Republic of Korea diplomatic relations. POLO but also further enhanced the “For seven decades, the bond end, both countries have agreed in Korea played a key role in mobilizing over four hundred Filipino community leaders and members, mostly Filipinos working in Korea.

PHILIPPINE LABOR @laborandemployment 6 • AGENCIES • October 2019 Foreign employers, recruiters directed to apprise POEA on hired OFWs THE Philippine Overseas (Rule V, Section 21. Criteria for from participation in the Employment Administration Lawful Processing of Personal overseas employment program (POEA) has reminded recruitment Information). for six months to one year on and manning agencies including Republic Act No. 8042, the first offense and permanent foreign employers and principals, as amended, mandates the disqualification in the overseas of their responsibility to monitor POEA to “formulate and employment and permanent and report the status, condition, implement, in coordination with disqualification and delisting from photo by ECC or significant events relating to its appropriate entities concerned, the roster of accredited principals/ hired workers. when necessary, a system for employers on the second offense. In grateful appreciation for their service and sacrifices to the country, Wounded-in-Action Administrator Bernard P. Olalia promoting and monitoring the The POEA has recently (WIA) members of the First Scout Ranger Regiments of the Philippine Army who fought during said some recruitment agencies overseas employment of Filipino developed an online application to the Marawi siege led by the Maute and Abu Sayyaf groups receive 10,000 pesos each from the and employers are not reporting workers taking into consideration facilitate the monitoring of OFWs. Employees Compensation Commission under the ECC’s Quick Response Program. material and relevant information their welfare and the domestic The monitoring system will be about their recruits on account of manpower requirements.” used by Philippine recruitment data privacy and confidentiality, Olalia said failure to report and manning agencies as a tool in Marawi combatants get consequently resulting to on the status of employment of reporting the status and condition inconclusive monitoring reports. an OFW is a prohibited act under of OFWs they have deployed as ECC cash assistance But Olalia said incomplete Republic Act 8042, as amended prescribed by the POEA through reports are deemed as not and the corresponding POEA rules Memorandum Circular No. 12, DAVAO CITY – The Employees' platoon leader of the 4th Scout compliant to POEA Rules and on recruitment and placement of Series of 2018. Compensation Commission (ECC) Ranger Company said, “The other issuances and data privacy Filipino workers. Non-compliance MC 12-2018 requires licensed recently extended cash assistance cash assistance extended to us by should not be a reason for their warrants the institution of manning and recruitment agencies to twelve wounded-in-action the Employees’ Compensation non-compliance. appropriate disciplinary actions to strictly monitor status and (WIA) members of the 4th Scout Commission indicated the The processing of personal and imposition of corresponding conditions of deployed OFWs Ranger Company, at 2nd Scout government’s appreciation of the information of overseas Filipino penalties provided under the onsite and seafarers onboard and Ranger Batallion of the First Scout sacrifices that we put in performing workers is allowed under existing rules. submit corresponding quarterly Ranger Regiment, Philippine Army our sworn duties for the country.” laws. The Implementing Rules As a requirement for reports. Unit in Barangay San Agustin, He added that they are grateful and Regulations of Republic Act accreditation, foreign principals Initial report on the status and Davao Del Norte, Tagum City. not only for the amount granted No. 10173 or the Data Privacy Act and employers sign an undertaking condition of newly deployed OFWs The twelve WIA Scout Rangers by the EC Programs but also for of 2012 allows the processing of to monitor the employment of onsite and seafarers onboard each received 10,000 pesos cash the thought that their service to the personal information when “the OFWs and to submit a report shall be done three months after assistance under the ECC’s Quick country is valued. processing is necessary to protect of significant incidents relative deployment and every quarter Response Program (QRP). EC Program grants 10,000 pesos vitally important interests of the thereto. Failure to comply with thereafter. However, in the event These soldiers were among for every WIA and 15,000 pesos for data subject, including his or her the said undertaking is ground for of a significant or critical incident, those who fought during the the families of the killed-in-action life and health; and the processing administrative sanction. the deploying agency should Marawi Siege lead by the ISIS- personnel (KIA). This is in addition of personal information is Failure to monitor and report promptly submit the report within inspired Maute and Abu Sayyaf to the various EC benefits that can necessary for the fulfillment of the status, condition, or significant five working days from occurrence. groups. be claimed from ECC thru GSIS. the constitutional or statutory events relating to its hired worker –Nascel A. Gabito, POEA On May 23, 2017, a bloody The cash assistance is in accordance mandate of a public authority carries a penalty of suspension war erupted when the Maute and with the provision under the ECC Abu Sayyaf groups attacked and Quick Response Program. occupied several places in Marawi ECC Executive Director Stella Most City. The war lasted for nearly five Zipagan-Banawis, explained months and claimed hundreds of that through the EC Program, lives among government forces. the men and women in uniform companies First Lieutenant Reymal Lopez, or their families are assured of immediate assistance in case a with LMC not work-related contingency arises. NEW OWWA DEPUTY ADMINISTRATOR “ECC financial assistance signifies TAKES OATH. Esther Margaux Justiniano Uson the government’s appreciation of involved in takes her oath of office before Overseas Workers the imperative contribution of the Welfare Administration (OWWA) Administrator Hans Leo Cacdac, following her appointment military to the country’s peace, labor cases as Deputy Administrator, in a ceremony at the progress and national security.” photo by Alejandro Echavez, IPS DOLE Office in Intramuros, Manila. Servng as –Carlo Katigbak, ECC with report witness is Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III. from Albert Bantan, ECC-REU 11 NATIONAL Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB) Executive Director IV Maria enhancement programs, the Teresita Lacsamana-Cancio NCMB is able to facilitate the NMP inks pact with Japan manning group announced that 95% of companies establishment of LMCs in with Labor Management Councils organized and unorganized on training program (LMCs) were not involved in companies. any labor cases in the month of The Board also used the RECOGNIZING the The agreement involves the (STCW) 1978 Convention as September. LMC as a vehicle for the importance of advancing NMP’s opening of additional amended including value-added “As of September 30, 2019, implementation of the DOLE the instructional skills of batches of IMO MC 6.10 to courses towards improving 3,482 out of 3,654 companies with convergence of programs which maritime faculty in upgrading accommodate IMMAJ-PJMCC the qualifications of Filipino Labor Management Councils aims to institutionalize programs the qualifications of Filipino scholars coming from their seafarers for their employment were not involved in Actual of the NWPC, OSHC, ECC and seafarers, the National member-shipping/manning acceptability and enhanced Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) companies and faculty members competitiveness. Strikes or lockouts (AS/L), Notices BWSC in establishments. and the International Mariners of member-institutions of In 2018, NMP was able to train of Strike or Lockouts (NS/L), As of September 2019, 423 Management Association the Philippine Association of twenty-five scholars endorsed by and Preventive Mediation (PM) LMCs were enhanced in NWPC of Japan-Philippine-Japan Maritime Institutions (PAMI). IMMJ-PJMCC. cases,” Cancio added. programs, 588 LMCs in OSHC Manning Consultative Council, It is expected that the “The IMMAJ-PJMCC Since January of 2019, the and ECC programs, and 594 Inc (IMMAJ-PJMCC) inked a participants will be able to recognizes our capability of NCMB has facilitated 293 LMCs LMCs enhanced in BWSC family Memorandum of Agreement develop instructor traits through providing a world class quality nationwide. Out of the facilitated welfare program. (MOA) on the conduct of IMO adoption of effective maritime training and this partnership LMCs, 38 were facilitated in Work Relations Enhancement, model course 6.10 (training simulator-based instructions in affirms the multiplier effect organized establishments a program under the mandate of course for Simulator Instructors accordance with international the training of instructors has while 255 in unorganized the NCMB, is the building block and Assessors) last October 8, standards. on the overall skills education establishments. of the convergence program 2019 in Pasay City. Maglungsod said that the and training endeavour in the In the same period, the Board in fostering productivity, The signing was led by ultimate goal of the collaboration maritime industry”, Maglungsod has enhanced 1,403 LMCs, 598 in maintenance of safety and health, NMP Executive Director Joel is to ensure the constant added. organized companies and 804 in and continuous compliance with Maglungsod and IMMA- availability of component For more information about unorganized companies. labor standards. JPJMCC Vice-President Captain Filipino seafarers in the world NMP’s training, interested “With the changing labor In the same period, the Teodoro Quijano and witnessed shipping market. individuals may visit the agency’s relations climate, the Board NCMB reported that 96% of by Engineer Ponciano Trnidad, In its sound effort to fulfil facebook page (www.facebook. has pushed to intensify its establishments or 3,787 out of Atty. Ruben Maceda, Grace and realize its mandate, NMP com/nmptrainingcenter) where efforts in reaching companies 3,956 establishments with active Marie Ayaso, Evelyn Futol and continues to upgrade its all related information on NMP and promoting work relations Grievance Machineries were not Geraldine Paduano-Fabila of facilities and provide maritime trainings are available. –Amalia enhancement programs,” Cancio involved in AS/L, NS/L, and PM NMP and G. Sole and Capt. training required pursuant N. Judicpa said. cases. –Gillian Pearl L. Guerrero, Gerry Chan of IMMJ-PJMMC. to the Seafarers Training CW Through work relations NCMB

dole.gov.ph PHILIPPINE LABOR

October-December 2017 Octoberber 2019 • THE REGIONS • 7 PESOs challenged: Help ease foreign deployment - Negros Occ. Gov. Lacson

BACOLOD CITY – Negros Migration and Human Trafficking” breakdown of families, delinquency Occidental Governor Eugenio by the Center for Migration among the youth, and disruption of Jose Lacson challenged the PESOs Advocacy Philippines and Mujeres, normal child development. across the country to not only Inc. Women United for Justice. What is alarming he added photo by Jomar Lagmay, IPS help provide decent, humane The report indicated that the is that, while the growth in the and lucrative employment for the undocumented OFWs are left number of migrant workers Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson urges PESO Managers during the 19th Filipino workingmen, but also to virtually unprotected and their translate to increase in the number PESO Congress to ease foreign deployment of Filipino workers by attracting them to work contribute greatly in easing the basic rights violated with impunity of overseas remittances, there locally. Lacson said PESOs can significantly contribute to the national goal of promoting full exodus of Filipinos who work in many countries of destination, has also been a corresponding employment, equal work opportunities, and an improved quality of life. overseas. causing harm and suffering to increase in violations on the rights Speaking before the over 1,500 Filipino families, especially women of workers, particularly those that PESOs and Job Placement said, the PESOs can help attain delegates of the 19th National and children, instead of ensuring working as household service Offices will be able to provide the national goal of promoting Public Employment Service Office them a happy and untroubled life. workers. magnet for new jobs so that our full employment, equal work (PESO) Congress in Bacolod City, Lacson said that prolonged Given the facts on the incidents fellow Filipinos will no longer have opportunities, and an improved Lacson expressed apprehension separation and psychological of abuses and exploitations on our reasons to go abroad. quality of life for all. –Connie C. on the recent “Report on Irregular pressures have caused the migrant workers, Lacson hopes By doing this, the governor Gonzales NCR-RO gears up for 4IR TECHNOLOGICAL Tagaytay, City Yadao-Sison of Commission on breakthroughs and the interplay A good number of Public Higher Education Unified Student of a number of fields, including Employment Service Officers Financial Assistance System internet of things (IOT), advanced (PESOs) from the NCR and career for Tertiary Education (CHED - robotics, artificial intelligence, guidance team from Department UniFAST), . nano-technology, data analytics of Labor and Employment Delos Reyes presented the and the like, ushered in the Fourth attended the significant event. regional labor market report photo by Jomar Lagmay, IPS Industrial Revolution (4IR). Considering the ratio between as well as ways in acing the This, coupled by reports that as the students and the career industry requirements and other DOLE SECRETARY INAUGURATES NEW DOLE-KALINGA PROVINCIAL OFFICE. Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III together with Kalinga Governor Ferdinand Tubban (5th from a result of the 4IR, around 35% of advocates, preparing the youth for information pertaining to career right) leads the inauguration ceremony of DOLE Kalinga Provincial Office last October 18, the jobs will be redefined, DOLE- the challenges ahead is a daunting enhancement. at the Capitol Hills, Bulanao Tabuk City, Kalinga. Joining the Secretary are DOLE Regional NCR recently conducted a three- task for duty-bearers, making Discussing the skills require- Directors Exequiel Ronie Guzman (CAR), Nathaniel Lacambra (RO1), and other municipal day Regional Career Guidance it imperative that a solid basic ments need to cope with the mayors of Kalinga province. Advocacy Congress (RCAC) in foundation for sustained learning challenges of the 4IR, Delos Reyes Tagaytay, City be cascaded to the duty-bearers to said that people skills still occupy Ryan Roberto Delos Reyes, ensure its effective dissemination the number one spot. Robots and DOLE-NCR Senior Labor and to the stakeholders. artificial intelligence may redefine RO 8 breaks ground Employment Officer and the main As the activity is centered on the way we conduct our jobs but speaker during Congress said that career development and national it is only us humans, who can the redefinition entails changes interventions provided to career analyze facts, provide intelligent for North Leyte field office that will affect the workers and development in relation to 4IR, projections, and dignify the by Norma Rae S. Costimiano their opportunities in the world the guest speakers are from responsibilities of one’s work. of work. ”Such changes can either national agencies with stake on The 4IR entails changes in make or break the country’s labor education and career path such the labor market. “Preparing TACLOBAN CITY – A ground continued strategic partnership market”, he said. as Conrado Bares of Technical the students who are our future breaking ceremony was held by with its stakeholders for the To be able to catch up Education and Skills Development workforce, is vital for our country’s the Department of Labor and benefit of the constituents. technologically and benefit from Authority (TESDA-NCR); Rufino survival in the digital age”, Delos Employment Regional Office VIII “Let this ground-breaking the 4IR, DOLE-NCR conducted Mendoza of National Intelligence Reyes added. –Connie Gonzales for its future North Leyte Field ceremony spark a more a three-day Regional Career Coordinating Agency (NICA- with report from Ryan Roberto Delos Office last October 22, 2019 at the harmonious partnership of Guidance Advocacy Congress in NCR); and Atty. Carmelita Reyes, DOLE-NCR Government Center, Candahug, DOLE and the province in the Palo, Leyte. future. I know a lot is still to be The simple ceremony was done for the realization of the witnessed by the different future DOLE-NLFO building, partners and stakeholders of but we are now about to do the DOLE RO VIII, with Executive first step. As the quote says, A Director Noel Binag of journey of thousand miles begins Occupational Safety and Health with a single step,” said ED Center as the keynote speaker. Binag. Regional Director Yahya Centi In response, Atty. in his opening remarks grabbed Edgardo Cordeño, Provincial the opportunity to extend his Administrator, representing the heartfelt gratitude to the Province good governor, assured that the of Leyte headed by Governor provincial government of Leyte Leopoldo Dominico Petilla, and will remain as a supportive committed to continue providing partner of DOLE in its pursuit to labor and employment services fulfil its mandate and eventually as needed by the constituents of serve the people of Leyte the province. effectively. “My sincerest gratitude to our “As your fellow servants in photo by DOLE RO 3 good governor Petilla for being the government, we have shared so generous to the department. responsibility to help our people GOING AN EXTRA MILE. Twenty identified members of the Aeta community in five barangays in Porac, Pampanga including members of the Usbong Katutubo Rotary Cultural Village in Barangay Camias are given by the Department of Labor and Employment Central Luzon with Let it be known today that we are in need. We are one with you P20,000 worth of Negosyo Kariton (Nego-Kart) under the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program in cooperation with the Rotary. In photo: DOLE inspired all the more to continue in remaining steadfast to the Information and Publication Service Director Rolly Francia, DOLE 3 Regional Director Zenaida Angara-Campita, and DOLE Pampanga Field delivering public service in the mission of uplifting the lives of Office Head Arlene Tolentino, and Brgy. Captain Reggie Abuque together with other DOLE staff and beneficiaries. field of labor and employment. the Leyteños”, Atty. Cordeño This will forever be etched in the said. history of DOLE RO VIII”, said Other stakeholders who and Mayor Michael Dragon respectively. is authorized to use the 1,000 Director Centi. gave their messages during Javier, representing the Based on the Usufruct square meter lot as the site of the Meanwhile, Executive the turnover were Mr. Jaime 1st District of Leyte and Agreement signed last August DOLE-North Leyte Field Office, Director Binag congratulated Go representing Congressman Congresswoman Lolita Karen 17, 2019 by DOLE Regional to serve the needs of the clients DOLE RO VIII and hoped for a Ferdinand Martin Romualdez Javier of the 2nd District of Leyte, Office 8 and the Provincial from the first and second districts government of Leyte, the DOLE of the province.

PHILIPPINE LABOR @laborandemployment • THE GOOD NEWS • ECC bags ASEAN Social Security award THE Employees’ Compensation the coverage and access to social Commission (ECC) is one of the protection for workers in the recipients of the ASEAN Social informal economy. Security Association (ASSA) ECC Executive Director Stella Award during the 36th ASSA Zipagan-Banawis accepted the Board Meeting and Seminar award from TAP Chairman, hosted by the Tabung Amanah Yang Berhormat, Major General Pekerja (TAP) or Employee (Ret) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Trust Fund (ETF) of Brunei Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Darussalam at The Rizqun Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok International Hotel, Bandar Seri Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, Begawan, Brunei Darussalam. Minister of Culture, Youth and ECC was recognized under Sports of Brunei Darussalam, the Continuous Improvement and Ms. Nguyen Thi Minh, Recognition Category, for its 3Es ASSA Chairman, Vice Minister, project on the Reform Agenda of Director General of Vietnam the ECC: Equalize, Enhance and Social Security. Expand. ASSA’s recognition ceremony The 3Es is a framework was attended by representatives photo by ECC adopted by the ECC geared of the 20 member institutions towards providing a more from ASEAN countries namely ECC Executive Director Stella Zipagan-Banawis (second from left) accepts the award during the 36th ASEAN Social Security Association (ASSA) Board Meeting and Seminar held in Brunei Darussalam, attended by representatives of 20 member institutions from ASEAN countries. holistic and responsive Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, ECC is one of the recipients of the ASSA Award under the Continuous Improvement Recognition Category for its project 3Es Reform Agenda. employment compensation Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, benefits to all Filipino workers Myanmar, the Philippines, and regulations and on the basis “For the past years, we have said Banawis. and/or their dependents in Singapore, Thailand, and of consensus that would grow extended package of benefits to With the recent recognition, the event of work-connected Vietnam. These countries share for the best interest of the people millions of Filipinos. And to see Banawis is more determined to sickness, injury, disability and/ viewpoints and desire towards and growth in the region. them start new lives through our improve the ECC’s programs for or death. a united, stable and strong social According to Executive programs gives us more reasons the betterment of persons with It also aims to equalize the security in the region. Director Banawis, it is through to perform our mandate and go work-related disabilities. –Carlo benefits between the covered ASSA seeks to promote the ECC’s 3Es project that the agency beyond what is expected of us,” Katigbak, ECC workers-employees in the public development of social security is able to reach more Filipino and private sectors, enhance and among its member countries in workers who met work-related upgrade EC benefits and expand line with their aspirations, laws contingencies. The success story of a WODP scholar “IF there is a will, there is a way” statistics of the unemployed. But may be an old adage, but after the dull moment was just short- conquering the odds Jonah Lou lived. Again, DOLE came to the Lebastin, happily reminisces her rescue. The Department hired her past, the dark and the light spots as an intern under its program the along the way. GIP also known as Government A daughter of a sugar mill Internship Program and was worker and a housewife with two assigned at the DOLE Davao del siblings in the family, Jonah was Sur Field Office. Coffee for Peace big winner in wary on how to start and finish As an intern, she shared her college after graduating high learnings in school at work. In school. six months, she experienced the Productivity Olympics '19 Short of assurance, she tasks of an office worker. “My enrolled at Cor Jesu College exposure in DOLE’s programs DAVAO CITY – Winners of the the twelve candidates pre-selected practices of local farmers, they can in Digos City, Davao del helped me admire the services 2019 Productivity Olympics were by the Regional Tripartite Wages command higher prices for their Sur’s Bachelor of Science in of the Department of Labor and announced during the Awarding and Productivity Board-XI, and coffee and thereby improve their Accounting Technology program. Employment,” Jonah said. Ceremony held at The Sheraton they were MS3 Agri-Ventures and living conditions. Fortunately, in just a few days After completing the Manila Bay on 04 October 2019. Coffee For Peace, Inc. As a national winner, after enrolment, she was notified internship period, Jonah was Coffee for Peace, Inc., one of the Coffee for Peace Inc. operates Coffee for Peace, Inc. received a of her qualification as grantee of given the opportunity to two finalists representing Davao the Coffee for Peace Café which P100,000.00 cash award, a plaque Isabelo Delos Reyes Scholarship become a Job Order personnel Region, was declared a National is located in Unit 6105, One Oasis of recognition, the right to use under the Workers’ Organization at the DOLE XI Regional Office. Winner in the Service Category for Ecowest Drive, Ecoland, Davao the Productivity Olympics logo Development Program of the Moving to the bigger office of micro-enterprises. City Philippines. The coffee served for three years and priority DOLE. DOLE, she was assigned at the The Productivity Olympics is a in its café are from coffee beans endorsement to training programs She jumped with joy upon IMSD-Human Resource Unit nationwide competition organized roasted by a CQI Licensed Q and services of NWPC/RTWPBs learning the good news. The handling the payroll of Job Order by the National Wages and Arabica Grader and which they and DOLE. future of her college education Personnel and performing other Productivity Commission (NWPC) source from their local coffee The last time that a finalist became clear and assured. administrative duties. Jonah learned that the The biggest break in her career and held every two years wherein farmer partners in Mindanao at from Davao Region won in the scholarship was offered to was on March 19, 2019, Feast the best productivity practices fair prices. Productivity Olympics was in legitimate dependents and of St. Joseph the Worker when of micro, small and medium Coffee for Peace Inc. provides 2013. This win of Coffee for Peace, children of officers and members she took her oath of office as the enterprise are showcased. For training on the planting, growing Inc. heralds the revitalization of DOLE-registered unions. new Statistician II of the regional this year’s Productivity Olympics, and harvesting of coffee. The of productivity champions in Jonah’s father, Noel Labastin, office of DOLE XI. “Being blessed two were chosen as finalists to company believes that by the Davao Region. –Eduardo P. is a member of Nagkahiusang with the appointment comes with represent the Davao Region, from enhancing the coffee-growing Monreal, DOLE RO XI Mamumuo sa DASUSECO – great responsibility as well. But National Federation of Labor I believe, I have all the support (NAMADA – NFL), a DOLE- coming from the Management registered union. and my co-workers just as they With the scholarship at help on shaping everyone to hand, Jonah focused hard on become better employees”, Jonah her studies, and aimed to finish said. a four-year course. Time passed She added that her by unnoticed, she finished her professional career, molded studies on tim and shaped by DOLE, makes On the day of her graduation, her deeply indebted to the wearing her black toga, holding Department. “My life is also her diploma on stage, she said, nothing without the loving and “I looked back at my parents helpful people behind me, my reminiscing the odds we family, the workers in the sugar encountered for me to finish mill, the officers and members college and for the family to of NAMADA-NFL, friends, my survive”. co-employees in the Department photo by DOLE-RO 11 However, the graduation of Labor and Employment, and WINNER! Chief Executive Officer of Coffee for Peace Inc., Felicitas Joji Pantoja, receives the cash award and plaque of recognition together euphoria was short-lived. The last but not the least to God, the with RTWPB-XI board members and staff. Joining them are (from left) NWPC Executive Director Maria Criselda Sy, Assistant Secretary Joji next day, Jonah faced the reality Almighty,” Jonah said. –Eduardo Aragon, Undersecretary Claro Arellano, and Undersecretary Ana Dione. that she was already in the P. Monreal, DOLE RO XI