Caraga: Workers in Caraga (Region-13) successfully reclaimed more than PHP11.2 million in monetary benefits during the first half of 2026 through the Department of Labor and Employment's (DOLE) Single Entry Approach (SEnA). The initiative, aimed at addressing labor disputes efficiently, has proven beneficial for numerous employees in the region.
According to Philippines News Agency, a total of 546 workers sought assistance from January to June, raising concerns related to illegal dismissal, nonpayment, or underpayment of 13th-month pay, minimum wage, separation pay, last pay, and overtime pay. These complaints emerged from employees across various industries such as construction, accommodation, retail, mining, financial services, health care, manufacturing, and transportation.
DOLE-13 highlighted that most cases involved wage-related issues, emphasizing the necessity for employers to adhere to labor standards. "We remind employers that timely payment of wages and benefits is not only a legal obligation but also a moral responsibility to their workers," the agency stated.
A total of 241 requests for assistance (RFAs) were filed, with 202 resolved through mandatory conciliation, resulting in PHP11,219,503.23 in monetary benefits recovered by workers. "SEnA continues to serve as a fast, accessible, and non-litigious mechanism for resolving labor disputes," DOLE-13 noted, adding that the agency provides immediate relief to workers without needing lengthy court proceedings.
Of the RFAs handled, 100 were submitted online via the DOLE Assistance Request Management System, while 141 were filed onsite. "The availability of both online and onsite filing reflects our commitment to reach workers wherever they are," DOLE-13 remarked, recognizing that accessibility is crucial for protecting labor rights, especially in remote areas.
DOLE-13 assured workers of its commitment to further strengthen conciliation and mediation services in the region. "The PHP11.2 million recovered is proof that SEnA remains an effective tool in safeguarding labor rights in Caraga," the agency concluded.
