CITY OF ILAGAN, Isabela (PIA) — The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region 2 recently conducted the second leg of a multi-sectoral dialogue on Freedom of Association, which was attended by employers and workers from the provinces of Isabela, Quirino, and Nueva Vizcaya, held in Santiago City, Isabela.
DOLE Region 2 Director, Jesus Elpidio Atal Jr., shared that the first dialogue was held in Cagayan in June 2024, bringing together employers and workers from the province.
He said the dialogue aims to address critical labor rights issues, promote initiatives to protect and empower workers, and foster collaboration and mutual respect among different sectors.
“Ang Freedom of Association o Kalayaan sa Pag-organisa ng Asosasyon ay pundasyon ng isang maayos, makatarungan, at produktibong ugnayan sa paggawa,” Atal emphasized.
Atal said the Philippines is a signatory to the International Labor Organization (ILO) Convention, which seeks to protect workers’ rights, specifically regarding Freedom of Association. As a signatory, he noted that the Philippines must actively champion the implementation of these principles.
The country is currently enforcing the Omnibus Guidelines on Freedom of Association and Civil Liberties to ensure the protection of workers’ rights while balancing the interests of workers, employers, and the government.
“The tripartite roadmap on Freedom of Association provides a structured framework to address common challenges and help realize the effective implementation of these rights,” Atal explained.
Atal further noted that the Omnibus Guidelines serve as a practical tool to clarify the responsibilities of each party and promote compliance with labor standards.
“This is an opportunity to hear directly from both employers and employees. Through this dialogue, we aim to foster a genuine understanding of the challenges, aspirations, and contributions of each sector.” Atal said.
He concluded by emphasizing that the goal of the event is to find solutions based on the principles of unity, respect, and mutual development.
Atal encouraged employers to view the dialogue as a chance to build trust and cooperation with workers, while workers should use their voices constructively to promote the rights and welfare of the broader workplace community. (OTB/MGE/PIA Isabela)
