ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) – The Department of Labor and Employment Occupational Safety and Health Center (DOLE-OSHC) recognized companies that prioritize workers’ welfare and safety during the 13th Gawad Kaligtasan at Kalusugan (GKK) Awarding Ceremony held here recently.
A total of 34 winners and 39 special awardees from 13 regions were honored for their efforts in promoting occupational safety and health (OSH). The regional winners, including special awardees, will automatically qualify to compete at the national level.
The GKK is an initiative led by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) through the OSHC, aimed at acknowledging enterprises and individuals for implementing successful OSH programs that cater to the needs of workers, workplaces, and communities.
For the Zamboanga Peninsula, TVI Resource Development, a mining company from Bayog, Zamboanga del Sur, emerged as the regional winner. The company will represent Region 9 in the national competition.
According to Engr. Nicetas Ruth Rosal, TVI Supervisor, the company places great importance on workers’ safety and well-being, “we always inculcate that we want our employees and workers to go home safe and sound to their families,” she said.
Engr. Rosal added that they follow strict protocols to ensure the safety of their employees while also maintaining environmental and community protections.
The OSHC is responsible for monitoring working environments, testing safety devices, and assisting government agencies in crafting policies related to OSH. They aim to create a healthy and well-protected workforce within a caring and responsive work environment.
Engr. Jose Maria S. Batino, Executive Director of the OSHC, encouraged companies to strengthen their OSH practices. “We urge all enterprises, institutions, and establishments in the Zamboanga Peninsula to create a healthy and safe working environment,” he emphasized.
During the awarding ceremony, TVI Resource Development received a trophy and a cash prize of ₱30,000 as the regional GKK winner. (EDT/DBE/PIA9-ZAMSULTA)
