The Bureau of Labor Relations (BLR) conducted the 2016 Annual National Consultation of Mediator-Arbiters at the Icon Hotel in Diliman, Quezon City on 07-10 December 2016.

The consultation aimed to ensure a uniform approach in the implementation of labor relations laws, labor standards and related policy issuances in the DOLE Regional Offices. It also intended to enhance the skills and ethical standards of Mediator-Arbiters as Special Prosecutors and Hearing Officers in DOLE administrative cases. Issues and concerns in the implementation of Department Order 40-03, as amended and Department Order No. 40-I-15 including the latest policy issuances on contracting and subcontracting were also discussed during the consultation.

Director Adeline T. De Castro of DOLE-Planning Service presented the DOLE policy directions in line with the 8-Point Labor and Employment Agenda of the new administration.

Atty. Florence Daquioag of DOLE-Legal Service discussed the process and procedure in the deposition of administrative complaints and cases in DOLE.

Atty. Marisa P. Garcia facilitated the discussion on the issues, concerns and solutions to problem areas in the implementation of Department Order 40-I-15 and Department Oder 40-03. 

Undersecretary Joel B. Maglunsod delivered the Keynote Speech. He said that “as a former seminary student and labor leader, my heart is with the workers. We should protect our workers by defending their security of tenure as it is the most important labor right among our workers.”

Director Benjo Santos M. Benavidez spearheaded the conduct of the activity.

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