Bontoc business owners found violating labor laws

By Shannon Anthea S. Pagaduan and Alpine Killa-Malwagay

BONTOC, Mountain Province – The provincial Dept. of Labor and Employment found business owners here in violation of labor laws among others.
    The DOLE found this out July 21 during inspection while imposing compliance of micro establishments to labor standards in the municipality.
     At the municipal capitol, DOLE Senior Labor and Employment Officer Leonardo Doguil said irregularities and non-compliance with rules were found during their inspection.
    He explained technical assistance visits are one of major components of the new inspectorate framework under DOLE Department Order 238, series of 2023, which allows labor inspectors to exempt MEs from inspection and instead provide developmental approach through this initiative.
    This allows them to undergo learning sessions to help them identify areas for improvement in labor laws compliance using standard checklists and action plans.
    The one-day activity aimed to monitor and assess the compliance of employers and businesses with labor laws and regulations; provide education and awareness to workers on their rights, responsibilities, and entitlements under labor laws; and gather valuable feedback and best practices from employers.
    Participants underwent a self-evaluation and assessment regarding their business labor and health standards.
    They will pass a self-correction report to DOLE within 90 days.
    Discussions on labor relations, general labor standards and occupational safety and health standards were part of the TAV session.
    Bontoc Mayor Jerome "Chagsen" Tudlong, Jr., in his message cited need for unity among Bontoc business owners who should support each other because they are all in business. 
    He thanked business owners for their contributions to the municipality's economic growth and development.
    Also present during the activity was Sangguniang Bayan member Peter Kedawen.