Workers, managers share learning gains from DOLE’s labor, safety training
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
BAROBO, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — For workers and company officials of J.M. Luciano Construction, Inc., learning about labor laws and workplace safety has become a practical step toward building safer and more productive workplaces.
Around 75 workers and management personnel gained valuable knowledge on labor laws and occupational safety during a recent training conducted by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)–Surigao del Sur under the supervision of Provincial Director Genebelle Bal in Barobo town.
The activity supports the national government’s continuing agenda to promote decent work, workers’ protection, and safer workplaces, key pillars in advancing inclusive economic growth and sustainable development across industries.
Bal emphasized that strengthening labor-management cooperation is key to sustaining industrial peace and productivity. She noted that informed workers and responsible employers are better equipped to uphold labor standards, reduce workplace risks, and create environments where safety and respect are prioritized.
For Domingo Apostol, administrative officer, the training provided an opportunity to strengthen both management and worker awareness on their shared responsibilities.
“This learning session is very important for both management and workers. It helps us better understand labor laws and workplace safety, which are essential in creating a productive and responsible working environment.”
He emphasized that understanding labor rights and responsibilities promotes accountability and fosters stronger coordination between workers and management, an essential element in maintaining workplace discipline and productivity.
Participants were oriented on general labor standards, statutory benefits, and key provisions of International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention No. 190, which promotes safe and respectful workplaces free from violence and harassment. The session also clarified employment classifications, such as casual, probationary, seasonal, and project-based workers, helping participants better understand their roles, entitlements, and obligations.
For Emilio O. Tabunda, safety manager, the training provided critical insights that strengthened their approach to workplace safety and compliance.
He noted that the knowledge gained will help reinforce safety protocols on-site and encourage workers and supervisors to work together in preventing workplace hazards.
“Safety is everyone’s responsibility. With the learning we gained, we are more confident in implementing safety measures that protect our workers and improve our daily operations,” he shared.
The training also included updates on Department Order No. 252-25, which outlines the revised Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 11058, also known as the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Law. Discussions highlighted the shared duty of employers and workers in maintaining safe and healthy workplaces.
For many participants, the training goes beyond compliance, it brings lasting benefits that can be applied directly in their daily work. The knowledge gained is expected to improve workplace practices, reduce risks, and strengthen trust between workers and management.
As similar capacity-building initiatives continue nationwide, programs like this contribute to building a resilient workforce, protecting workers’ welfare, and supporting the government’s broader goal of ensuring safe, fair, and productive employment opportunities for all Filipinos. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)
