DOLE Zamboanga del Sur

𝐓𝐔𝐏𝐀𝐃 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐲𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐬 𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐚𝐝𝐚 𝐄𝐬𝐤𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐚 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐊𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐎𝐟𝐟 𝐢𝐧 𝐙𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚 𝐝𝐞𝐥 𝐒𝐮𝐫

Province of Zamboanga del Sur – Demonstrating the spirit of bayanihan and the government's commitment to both education and employment generation, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has mobilized 2, 427 beneficiaries of its Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program to support the implementation of Brigada Eskwela 2026 across Zamboanga del Sur.

The deployment, which commenced on June 1, 2026, aims to help public schools prepare for the opening of classes for School Year 2026–2027. TUPAD beneficiaries have been assigned to 273 schools throughout the province with 812 public rooms covered to undertake essential clean-up, repair, and maintenance activities that will ensure a safe, clean, and conducive learning environment for learners.

Their responsibilities include classroom cleaning, grounds maintenance, painting, waste management, landscaping, and other school improvement activities necessary to make school facilities ready for the return of students and teachers.

The initiative forms part of the continuing partnership between the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Department of Education (DepEd), which combines employment assistance with community development. Through the five-day emergency employment program, disadvantaged and displaced workers are provided with temporary income opportunities while contributing to meaningful projects that directly benefit their communities.

The province-wide implementation forms part of the region's broader TUPAD-Brigada Eskwela initiative, backed by an allocation amounting to approximately Php34,669,350 million, underscoring the government's investment in both educational readiness and worker assistance programs.

The deployment of TUPAD workers highlights the agency's dual mandate of providing emergency employment while supporting vital community initiatives. By engaging TUPAD beneficiaries in school preparation efforts, the program not only offers temporary livelihood assistance to vulnerable workers but also strengthens community participation in education.

The TUPAD-Brigada Eskwela partnership underscores the government's commitment to fostering inclusive growth by providing temporary employment opportunities while ensuring that schools are adequately prepared to deliver quality education, ultimately benefiting workers, learners, and communities across Zamboanga del Sur.

End//MCD

𝐃𝐎𝐋𝐄 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐬 𝐌𝐓𝐈𝐏𝐂 𝐌𝐨𝐥𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐐𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐞, 𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐆𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬

𝐌𝐎𝐋𝐀𝐕𝐄, 𝐙𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚 𝐝𝐞𝐥 𝐒𝐮𝐫 – The Department of Labor and Employment Regional Office IX (DOLE IX), through its Zamboanga del Sur Field Office (ZDSFO), spearheaded the conduct of the 2nd Quarter Meeting of the Molave Municipal Tripartite Industrial Peace Council (MTIPC) on May 28, 2026, at the Farmers’ Training Center, Molave, Zamboanga del Sur.

The meeting brought together representatives from government agencies, employers, and private establishments to discuss labor concerns, business updates, and emerging digital developments affecting the municipality.

DOLE-ZDSFO Provincial Head Miraflor J. Casanes presented the rationale of activity. PD Casanes underscored the importance of maintaining strong tripartite collaboration among government, employers, and workers in addressing workplace concerns and advancing decent work initiatives at the local level.

A learning session facilitated by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) highlighting topics on digital awareness, online safety, and responsible use of technology. Participants were also introduced to several AI-powered applications and tools, encouraging them to explore emerging technologies while practicing responsible and safe use of artificial intelligence.

Engr. Yusep A. Abduhasad, Sr. LEO briefed the council on the implementation of the second tranche of Wage Order No. RIX-24, which took effect on June 1, 2026. He likewise discussed Labor Advisory No. 09, Series of 2026, concerning the payment of wages for the regular holiday Eid’l Adha, and Labor Advisory No. 08, Series of 2026, on the annual reporting of 13th Month Pay and compliance with wage-related requirements.

Representatives from partner government agencies also provided updates on their respective programs and services. Social Security System (SSS) Branch Head Edwin Remoto announced the opening of the new SSS Molave Office and introduced Ms. Leah Lagnason as its Officer-in-Charge. He informed stakeholders that beginning June 3, 2026, members and employers may already avail of SSS services and transact at the new office.

Meanwhile, PhilHealth representative Ms. Lerma Majorenos discussed updates on the Employers’ Electronic Premium Reporting System (EPRS) and reminded employers of the importance of timely premium remittances. She likewise presented information on PhilHealth benefit enhancements, including maternity benefits and the YAKAP and YAKAP Gamot programs.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Negosyo Center Business Counselor Ms. Cyrene Labe highlighted various services available to entrepreneurs and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), including business registration assistance, Barangay Micro Business Enterprise (BMBE) applications, business consultations, customer protection advocacy, sales promotion permit applications, and access to financing opportunities.

Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) representative Engr. Don Mark Dalid likewise presented available scholarship and skills training programs, including qualifications that provide training support, meal allowances, and transportation assistance. TESDA also encouraged industry stakeholders to participate in future consultations to ensure that training programs remain responsive to labor market needs.

The meeting ended with the presentation of agreements, including a proposed resolution requesting the DICT to conduct free AI training for MTIPC members to help improve digital skills and workplace readiness amid continuing technological advancements.

The quarterly MTIPC meeting reaffirmed the council’s commitment to strengthening cooperation among government agencies, employers, and workers in addressing labor, business, and technological concerns in the local community.

𝐒𝐄𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐃 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐇𝐄 𝐎𝐅 𝐖𝐀𝐆𝐄 𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐄𝐑 𝐍𝐎. 𝐑𝐈𝐗-𝟐𝟒 𝐓𝐀𝐊𝐄𝐒 𝐄𝐅𝐅𝐄𝐂𝐓 𝐓𝐎𝐃𝐀𝐘

Effective June 1, 2026, the second tranche of the minimum wage increase in Region IX (Zamboanga Peninsula) shall be implemented as follows:

✅ ₱464.00 – Non-agricultural establishments, including retail/service establishments employing 10 or more workers

✅ ₱451.00 – Agricultural establishments, including retail/service establishments employing 1–9 workers

The wage adjustment forms part of the staggered implementation of Wage Order No. RIX-24, which granted a total wage increase of ₱50.00 in two tranches.

All covered employers are enjoined to comply with the prescribed minimum wage rates. Workers are likewise encouraged to be informed of their rights and benefits under the wage order.

For inquiries and assistance, please contact the nearest DOLE Field Office.

𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐄𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐜 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:𝐋𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐄𝐱𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝟐𝟓 𝐏𝐃𝐋𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐙𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚 𝐝𝐞𝐥 𝐒𝐮𝐫

READ: In line with the government’s commitment to inclusive growth, social protection, and sustainable development, DOLE Zamboanga del Sur Field Office, successfully provided livelihood assistance amounting to ₱1,225,000.00 to twenty-five (25) Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) in the province of Zamboanga del Sur under the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP).

The initiative was implemented in partnership with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology Regional Office IX, aiming to strengthen convergence efforts in delivering sustainable livelihood opportunities and enhancing the beneficiaries’ capacity for income generation and productive engagement.

From May 26 to 27, 2026, the DOLE-ZDSFO conducted the turnover of livelihood projects alongside the Social Preparatory Training in various jail facilities across the province. The activity underscored the importance of not only providing livelihood assistance but also equipping beneficiaries with essential knowledge and skills to ensure the effective management and sustainability of their respective projects.

SJO4 Reginagen R. Sala, Acting Jail Warden, BJMP-PCJFD warmly welcomed the participants and conveyed gratitude to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) for its continued partnership and support in providing livelihood opportunities and hope for the beneficiaries.

Miraflor J. Casanes, Provincial Head provided the rationale and objectives of the activity, highlighting the importance of the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP) in empowering Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) through sustainable livelihood opportunities, capacity-building interventions, and social preparation geared towards their productive reintegration into society.

Further strengthening the training component, Ms. Remy Marie N. Kisio, Corporate Executive Officer II, and Ms. Mary Ann Christine L. Colubio, Senior Analyst, presented the programs and services of the Social Security System, including available benefits and enrollment procedures, to promote social protection and financial security among the beneficiaries.

Mr. Kevin Cumawas, Trade and Industry Development Analyst of the Department of Trade and Industry, facilitated an orientation on Basic Record Keeping, Marketing, and Financial Literacy, highlighting the significance of effective financial management and accurate record-keeping as essential tools in sustaining livelihood and ensuring long-term viability.

The turnover of livelihood projects was likewise successfully carried out with the active participation and support of Bureau of Jail Management and Penology personnel and Public Employment Service Office (PESO) managers and staff. Present during the activity were Mr. Anapaul Jun C. Tagbo (Tambulig), Ms. Shella Mae R. Maglasang (Mahayag), Ms. Raissa Jeanne H. Felicitas (Molave), and Ms. Catherine D. Cardoza (Dumingag).

This initiative reflects the continuing commitment of the Department of Labor and Employment to advance inclusive and community-based livelihood programs, empowering vulnerable and marginalized sectors through sustainable opportunities that promote productivity, dignity, and long-term self-reliance.

𝐃𝐎𝐋𝐄 𝐈𝐗 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐏𝟑.𝟔𝟗-𝐌 𝐒𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐁𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝟖𝟖 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐄𝐧𝐀 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦

𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊: The Department of Labor and Employment Regional Office IX (DOLE IX), through its Zamboanga del Sur Field Office, successfully facilitated the amicable settlement of labor issues amounting to Php 3,694,663.37 benefiting 88 workers on May 22, 2026, reaffirming the Department’s commitment to protecting workers’ welfare and ensuring the delivery of benefits due under the law.

DOLE Regional Director Albert E. Gutib personally witnessed the release of the settlement amount to the affected workers and took the opportunity to engage with them regarding the Department’s programs and services available to assist displaced workers and their families.

During his message, Regional Director Gutib emphasized that while workers may be affected by technological and organizational changes in the workplace, government support mechanisms remain available to help them transition to new opportunities and sustainable sources of livelihood. He encouraged them to visit the nearest Public Employment Service Office(PESO) for referral to available job vacancies. RD Gutib also highlighted the DOLE Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program (DILEEP) as one of the interventions available to qualified displaced workers and their families. Also, affected workers can avail of skills enhancement and competency development programs through TESDA to improve their employability and expand future employment opportunities. Qualified workers may likewise be endorsed for access to social protection programs, including SSS involuntary separation benefits.

The conciliation-mediation conferences were conducted on May 7, 2026 and May 22, 2026, where DOLE IX, through the Single-Entry Approach (SEnA) mechanism, provided a venue for both parties to discuss their concerns and work toward a mutually acceptable resolution through dialogue and voluntary compliance.

The settlement covered separation pay resulting from the implementation of labor-saving devices and redundancy measures by a local gaming company, as well as claims involving holiday pay and Service Incentive Leave (SIL) benefits.

The successful settlement was achieved through the facilitation and mediation efforts of SEAD Officer Engr. Sahimar S. Sarabi, who guided both parties toward constructive dialogue and mutual understanding that led to the amicable resolution of the labor dispute.

The meaningful resolution of the labor concerns highlights the continuing effectiveness of the SEnA program as a speedy, impartial, inexpensive, and accessible mechanism for resolving labor disputes while promoting industrial peace and fair labor practices in the workplace.

𝐃𝐎𝐋𝐄 𝐑𝐄𝐆𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐋 𝐃𝐈𝐑𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐎𝐑 𝐆𝐔𝐓𝐈𝐁 𝐌𝐄𝐄𝐓𝐒 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐑𝐓𝐌𝐈 𝐑𝐄𝐆𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐋 𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐆𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐓𝐎 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐍𝐆𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐍 𝐋𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐑 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐄𝐌𝐏𝐋𝐎𝐘𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐂𝐎𝐋𝐋𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍

𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊: DOLE Regional Director Albert E. Gutib met with the Regional Management of Rural Transit Mindanao, Inc. (RTMI) from Pagadian and Dipolog to discuss issues and concerns affecting workers and strengthen collaboration on labor and employment initiatives during a meeting held on May 22, 2026 at the DOLE Zamboanga del Sur Field Office.

As one of the largest employers in Region IX, RTMI plays a significant role in providing employment opportunities and supporting workforce development in the region.

During the meeting, RD Gutib shared various DOLE programs and services relevant to RTMI’s operations, particularly those applicable to unionized establishments, including the Workers Organization Development Program (WODP). He also discussed the DOLE Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program (DILEEP), which may be availed of by disadvantaged and displaced workers and their families.

RTMI expressed its appreciation for DOLE’s continuing guidance and support and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting employment opportunities and supporting workers in the region.

𝐃𝐎𝐋𝐄 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐬 𝟏𝐬𝐭 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐥 𝐀𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐋𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐋𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐄𝐟𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐙𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚 𝐝𝐞𝐥 𝐒𝐮𝐫

𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐙𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚 𝐝𝐞𝐥 𝐒𝐮𝐫 – The Department of Labor and Employment Zamboanga del Sur Field Office (DOLE-ZDSFO), as Chairperson and Secretariat of the Provincial Council Against Child Labor (PCACL), successfully led the conduct of the Council’s 1st Semester Meeting on 19 May 2026 at Cait’s Hall, Chandler Suites, Pagadian City, strengthening inter-agency efforts in advancing child labor prevention initiatives across the province.

The meeting gathered sixteen (16) partner agencies to discuss updates, accomplishments, targets, and emerging concerns related to child labor prevention and elimination efforts in Zamboanga del Sur. The activity likewise served as a venue to reinforce collaboration and align interventions among stakeholders in protecting the rights and welfare of children.

Chief Miraflor J. Casanes, Provincial Head of DOLE-ZDSFO and Chairperson of the ZDS PCACL, presented the rationale and objectives of the meeting and expressed appreciation to partner agencies for their continued commitment and active participation in child labor prevention initiatives across the province. She also underscored the importance of sustaining collaborative partnerships and strengthening convergence efforts to ensure responsive and effective services for child laborers and their families.

Social Welfare Officer II Rosalita Bengil of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region IX – Pagadian Satellite Office emphasized the importance of collective efforts and partnership in strengthening child protection mechanisms and ensuring a safer environment for children.

Among the accomplishments highlighted during the meeting was the provision of interventions and support services to 203 beneficiaries in Ramon Magsaysay, Zamboanga del Sur, composed of 112 child laborers and 91 parents or guardians. These interventions form part of the government's continuing efforts to address the underlying causes of child labor and improve the socio-economic conditions of affected families.

Engr. Yusep A. Abduhasad, Senior Labor and Employment Officer of DOLE-ZDSFO discussed the salient provisions of Executive Order No. 92, series of 2019, which strengthened government coordination mechanisms through the National Council Against Child Labor (NCACL) in enhancing initiatives toward the elimination of child labor.

Mr. Kenneth Joey Buco, Community Facilitator of DOLE-ZDSFO also shared updates on the implementation of the Child Labor Prevention and Elimination Program (CLPEP), including interventions and services available to child laborers and their families. These include counseling services, educational assistance, emergency employment opportunities through TUPAD, and livelihood support interventions for parents and guardians.

Meanwhile, CLPEP Focal Person Ms. Azerfa P. Lim presented the upcoming 2nd Quarter CLPEP Regional Information Caravan cm Project Angel Tree scheduled on 12 June 2026 at the Municipal Evacuation Center in Barangay Caniangan, Ramon Magsaysay, Zamboanga del Sur.

DOLE-ZDSFO and the Provincial Council Against Child Labor (PCACL), reaffirmed its commitment to continue providing leadership and strengthening inter-agency collaboration through coordinated programs and interventions aimed at preventing child labor, addressing the needs of vulnerable children and their families, and building safer communities toward a brighter future for children in Zamboanga del Sur.

End// Azerfa P. Lim with edits from MCD

𝐉𝐇𝐂𝐒𝐂 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐎𝐋𝐄 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐲𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐲𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝟗𝟎𝟎 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬

READ: San Miguel, Zamboanga del Sur — In line with the government’s continuing commitment to preparing young Filipinos for meaningful employment, the Department of Labor and Employment - IX (DOLE), through the DOLE Zamboanga del Sur Field Office, served as invited lecturers and resource speakers during the conduct of employment coaching to approximately 900 graduating students of Josefina H. Cerilles State College on May 14, 2026, at the Municipal, Gymnasium, San Miguel, Zamboanga Del Sur.

Carrying the theme, “Career Ready Graduates: Building Confidence for Real-World Opportunities,” the activity aimed to equip graduating students with practical employment knowledge, workplace readiness skills, and confidence as they prepare to enter the labor force.

The program was facilitated by Josefina H. Cerilles State College in partnership with DOLE, highlighting the importance of collaboration between educational institutions and government agencies in promoting youth employability and decent work opportunities.

The activity also underscored the support and leadership of DOLE-IX Regional Director Albert E. Gutib, who continues to champion programs that empower graduating students, jobseekers, and young professionals across the region. Under his leadership, DOLE Region IX has strengthened initiatives focused on employment facilitation, career development, and workforce preparedness.

The activity further highlighted several key employment and livelihood programs of DOLE designed to support graduates and first-time jobseekers, including employment facilitation services through Public Employment Service Offices (PESOs), job matching and referral services, labor market information, general labor standards and workplace etiquette. Students were also informed about opportunities under government internship and livelihood assistance programs that can help them gain work experience and develop sustainable sources of income.

DOLE emphasized the importance of preparing graduates not only academically but also professionally, ensuring that they possess the competencies, adaptability, and confidence needed in today’s evolving labor market.

Officials of Josefina H. Cerilles State College expressed their gratitude to DOLE for its continued partnership and commitment to empowering students through career development initiatives that bridge education and employment.

Through activities such as this, JHCSC and DOLE reaffirm their shared mission of producing career-ready graduates who are equipped to seize real-world opportunities and contribute meaningfully to nation-building.

End//Ma. Criselda B. Dal

READ: In observance of the Linggo ng Paggawa (Labor Week) and 124th Labor Day Celebration, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) – Zamboanga del Sur Field Office, in partnership with LGU-PESO Tigbao under the leadership of Municipal Mayor Eleazar C. Carcallas and Zamboanga del Sur Agricultural College Multi-Purpose Cooperative (ZSACICO) successfully conducted the turnover of Individual Livelihood Projects to 50 beneficiaries under the Enhanced Partnership Against Poverty and Hunger Program (EPAPHP) on May 7, 2026, at the Municipal Gymnasium.

The livelihood assistance, amounting to Php 2,479,700.00, covered various livelihood projects including Baking and Pastries, Barbering, Carpentry, Commercial Cooking, Dressmaking, Hair Rebonding, Ice Cream Vending, Masonry, Nail Care, Photocopying and Printing, Small Engine Repair, Street Food Vending, and Welding Kits. These livelihood packages aim to strengthen the beneficiaries’ capacity to establish sustainable sources of income, promote self-reliance, and improve their quality of life.

The program was graced by Municipal Vice-Mayor, Hon. Rowell P. Lalican, represented by Mr. Rolando P. Canales. Also present during the activity were Ms. Miraflor J. Casanes, Provincial Head and PESO Manager, along with representatives from partner agencies including the Social Security System (SSS), PhilHealth, Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Bureau of Fire Protection. Learnings sessions on social protection, financial literacy, occupational safety and health, PhilHealth programs and services, business permit and licensing processes, were conducted for the benefit of workers in the informal sector.

Through strengthened collaboration among government agencies, local government units, and community stakeholders, the activity served as a testament to the collective effort of building a more inclusive and progressive Bagong Pilipinas where decent work and sustainable livelihood opportunities are accessible to all.