Manila: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has demonstrated significant progress in resolving labor disputes effectively, contributing to the maintenance of productive and peaceful workplaces.
According to Philippines News Agency, the DOLE reported a labor case disposition rate of 98.07 percent, benefiting over 109,000 workers and resulting in PHP8.34 billion in monetary awards. The resolution of these disputes was primarily achieved through conciliation and mediation under the Single Entry Approach (SEnA), with 82.55 percent of cases being settled amicably.
The DOLE emphasized the importance of resolving workplace conflicts without disrupting livelihoods and business operations, utilizing preventive mediation, voluntary arbitration, and strike-management mechanisms. Furthermore, industrial peace was promoted through tripartite consultation under the National Tripartite Industrial Peace Council (NTIPC), which facilitated key labor policy issuances throughout the year.
Among the significant policy developments were Department Order No. 251-25, which strengthens the prohibition against discrimination against women in employment terms and conditions, and Department Order No. 253-25, which sets guidelines for temporary accommodation and welfare facilities for construction workers. Additionally, Department Order No. 252-25 revised the Implementing Rules and Regulations of RA 11058 on occupational safety and health standards.
The DOLE also reported inspecting 33,007 establishments, covering 3.7 million workers, and conducting 168,100 technical and advisory visits to encourage voluntary compliance. These efforts ensured that just and humane working conditions were prioritized in 2025, resulting in compliance rates of 94.53 percent for general labor standards and 90.06 percent for occupational safety and health standards.
Recognizing the Philippines' vulnerability to calamities and other disruptive events, the agency issued Labor Advisory No. 15, series of 2025, to enhance labor and management preparedness and safeguard workers' rights. This advisory also reinforced employers' responsibilities to uphold labor standards during emergencies.
In addition, the department conducted 541 occupational safety and health (OSH) trainings, reaching nearly 22,000 workers nationwide.
