Manila: As of April, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Surigao del Sur has amicably settled 20 out of 21 labor cases through its Single-Entry Approach (SEnA) program.

According to Philippines News Agency, DOLE-Surigao del Sur received 21 cases during the first quarter of this year, referring only one to the National Labor Relations Commission for further proceedings. The program awarded PHP306,919.95 in monetary settlements to 36 workers during the period.

"For many workers, labor disputes often come with uncertainty, stress, and fear of prolonged battles. The program has reinforced the workers' confidence in accessible government mechanisms," it said in its report on Thursday. Elsa, 29, of Tandag City, was among those who benefited from SEnA, which helped her resolve her case with her employer. "I will no longer discuss the disputes. I'd rather share how effective DOLE's SEnA program is and its help to workers," Elsa said in an interview. She added that the program provided a win-win solution to the case they filed earlier this year.

Another worker, Nonato, 44, cited the quick resolution of labor disputes through SEnA, describing the program as accessible to workers. "We need not wait for long months or even years in resolving disputes. The SEnA program also eliminates costly legal proceedings," Nonato said. The SEnA program was established under Republic Act 10396, which strengthened conciliation-mediation as a voluntary mode of dispute settlement for all labor cases.

"By prioritizing dialogue over dispute, it not only safeguards workers' rights but also helps preserve working relationships and stability within enterprises," DOLE-Surigao del Sur said.