Execs learn gov’t’s labor programs

Barangay captains across Cebu province have been oriented about the Department of Labor and Employment's programs and services.

The presidents of the Association of Barangay Captains (ABC) were given updates Thursday, particularly on the new PhilJobnet platform, PESO Employment Information System, and the Kasambahay Law. DOLE Regional Director Cyril Ticao said the involvement of their social partners, especially the barangay officials, in all its initiatives is vital.

"Elected officials have to be aware of the various programs of the DOLE. They also have to be updated regarding future labor market conditions by occupation, in-demand jobs, and skills shortages through client-specific information, education and communication materials, to name a few,” Ticao said in a statement.

As leaders, Ticao said, barangay captains are the ones who can provide the DOLE with substantial information regarding their respective localities and the potential needs of their constituents.

These pieces of information, he added, are valuable in the course of implementing the department's programs and services just like, for instance, the establishment of database of all the household helpers present in their respective places.

"It's the barangay representatives through their local chief executives, who know better the terrain and all the nooks and crannies in their own barangays and municipalities. Most certainly, they can very well help us strategize and find ways on how best we can advance and promote our programs and services among their constituents who need them the most,” Ticao said.

He also underscored the importance of strong collaboration between the barangays and the Public Employment Services Offices in each municipality.

"When there are job fairs for instance, the barangays could help disseminate information to potential jobseekers and in turn facilitate employers' search for qualified manpower,” he said.

Ticao also encouraged other attendees to be one with DOLE as it continues promoting the best interest of the workers.

He also highlighted the participation of barangay officials in DOLE's various capacity-building activities, as well as their involvement and contributions made in the DOLE's implementation of the Child Labor Prevention and Elimination Program (CLPEP), and the DOLE Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program (DILEEP).

Ticao further said DOLE needs the support in every way possible from the local leaders as they cannot effectively carry out their mandate alone.