The Manila Times
RESPONDING to a call for greater protection for job order and contract workers in government, Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino vowed to keep DOLE’s doors open to workers’ concerns and labor reform proposals. Tolentino made the commitment after Monday’s flag-raising ceremony. He welcomed concerns raised by labor leaders, underscoring his standing directive to keep the department accessible to workers and labor organizations seeking reforms and stronger protection mechanisms. Serving as guest speaker during the ceremony, Dr. Annie Enriquez-Geron, president of the Public Services Labor Independent Confederation, noted the continuing challenges faced by job order and contract of service workers across government agencies. Enriquez-Geron pointed out that many of these workers remain vulnerable despite performing essential functions in public offices, stressing the need for stronger safeguards to protect their rights, welfare, and job security. She urged the department to take action by issuing measures that would provide greater protection to workers hired under non-regular employment arrangements in government. “We hope that under your leadership, a department order will be issued to provide protection and safeguard the rights of job order and contract of service workers,” Enriquez-Geron said. She also called for strengthening Executive Order 180, which guarantees the right to organize among public-sector workers and established the Public Sector Labor-Management Council. Enriquez-Geron praised DOLE’s long-standing commitment to tripartism, describing the department as a key institution that consistently promotes dialogue among government, employers, and workers. Despite occasional disagreements between labor groups and government officials, DOLE has remained a reliable partner in advancing workers’ interests and sustaining meaningful consultations, she said. Enriquez-Geron added that no other government agency has institutionalized tripartism as deeply as DOLE does, citing its dedication, patience, and willingness to engage labor stakeholders even during difficult discussions. Tolentino assured public workers that DOLE would carefully study the proposals and continue working with tripartite partners to address issues affecting job order and contractual employees.
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