In response to the rapidly changing nature of work brought on by technological disruptions, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Public Employment Service Office Managers Association of the Philippines-Western Visayas (PESOMAP-WV) held their 2024 PESO Western Visayas Congress in Guimaras.
The event gathered 143 PESO managers, local government officials, and labor experts to address employment facilitation, skills development, and labor market challenges.
During his keynote address, DOLE Regional Director Atty. Sixto T. Rodriguez Jr. called on stakeholders to equip the workforce with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in an evolving economy.
“It is our collective responsibility to ensure that our workforce is equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to thrive in this new era,” said Rodriguez, emphasizing the impact of automation, artificial intelligence, and the digital revolution on industries and job creation.
Rodriguez also highlighted the role of PESO in addressing social issues such as discrimination, child labor, and unfair working conditions.
“As employment advocates and champions of workers’ rights, we have a moral obligation to safeguard the well-being of every worker, protecting them from undue exploitation and ensuring their rights are respected,” he added.
Embracing Change in Agriculture and Tourism
The Congress, themed “Ensuring Sustainable Employment in Changing Agricultural and Tourism Economy,” focused on how local economies could adapt to market shifts.
Various experts addressed key topics, including the importance of environmental sustainability in tourism and employment.
Assistant Regional Director of the Department of Tourism Region 6 highlighted this in her discussion on “Journey to Green and Blue Tourism and Employment,” emphasizing how eco-friendly tourism can drive job creation.
Participants also discussed the growing importance of sustainable farming practices in line with agricultural transformation, reflecting the need to adjust to climate change and market demands.
Enhancing Worker Protections and Welfare
A significant portion of the Congress was dedicated to the well-being of workers, particularly those employed abroad.
Rhea Glynda D. Calantas of the Department of Migrant Workers introduced PESO managers to programs designed to protect overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
Topics such as recruitment processes and preparing families for the challenges of migration were covered, alongside welfare case management and legal protections.
The Employees Compensation Commission (ECC) also presented its Return-to-Work Program, which focuses on helping workers recover and reintegrate after workplace accidents. Dr. Christine Marquez of ECC said the program aims to “restore the confidence and dignity” of workers as they resume their careers.
Fighting Poverty and Providing Livelihood Assistance
Atty. Rodriguez reaffirmed DOLE’s commitment to fighting poverty through employment and economic development initiatives. He announced the release of Php1 million in TUPAD assistance, a DOLE program that provides emergency employment for displaced workers.
An additional Php5 million in livelihood assistance was also offered to local government units (LGUs) that successfully institutionalize their respective PESOs.
“We should never lose sight of our dreams to free people from poverty, which is one of the evils of society today,” said Rodriguez, thanking PESO managers and local officials for implementing poverty alleviation programs.
Collaborative Solutions for Employment
Throughout the Congress, PESO managers engaged in discussions on employment challenges, sharing best practices and suggestions during an open forum.
The exchange of ideas highlighted the need for collaboration among government, private sector, and local communities to tackle unemployment and improve the labor market.
The event ended with a renewed focus on fostering skills development, empowering workers, and creating sustainable job opportunities across the region.
