CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) -- To inform the companies in the city about the department's programs and policy directions for 2024, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Cagayan de Oro City Field Office held an Employers’ Forum with 50 representatives from various manpower agencies on January 31.

One of the topics discussed during the forum was the implementation of Minimum Wage Order No. 22, a critical concern for many businesses in Cagayan de Oro City. Toledo provided insights into the rationale behind the order, clarifying its implications for employers and ensuring a better understanding of compliance requirements.

In addition to wage-related matters, the forum covered essential programs like the National Skills Registry and Philjobnet Accreditation, emphasizing the role of these initiatives in fostering a skilled and competitive workforce.

The forum also discussed the Single-Entry Approach (SEnA) Guidelines, General Labor Standards, DOLE Department Order No. 19 (which is the set of rules for hiring workers in the construction industry), DOLE Department Order No. 150-6 (which is the updated set of rules for hiring security guards and other private workers), and the Child Labor Elimination and Prevention Program (CLPEP).

DOLE-CDO Field Office Chief Emmanuel G. Toledo said the activity is an opportunity for everyone to learn about the new issuances of DOLE, saying, “DOLE has taken steps to engage you and all industry partners."

Cagayan de Oro City Public Employment Service Office (PESO) Manager Kathleen Kate D. Sorilla reintroduced their office to employers and encouraged collaboration with employers, presenting PESO-CDO as a valuable resource for hiring activities and providing easier alternatives for submitting hiring notices.

“The government is doing job facilitation through this office. PESO CDO’s goal is to develop programs that will provide access to jobseekers, primarily residents of Cagayan de Oro City, towards their development and enhancement of professional careers and employment,” she said.

Sorilla further added that the PESO-CDO welcomes partnerships in their hiring activities. She also provided them with easier alternatives for submitting their lists or notices of hiring.

The forum also served as an avenue for employers to voice concerns and seek clarification on various labor-related matters, where DOLE-CDO and PESO answered inquiries about everything from the complexities of the CLPEP to resignation procedures.

Toledo took the opportunity to remind human resource officers and administrative officers present about the importance of notifying the company 30 days in advance in case of resignation plans.

The DOLE-organized Employers' Forum, an annual gathering, continues to be crucial in fostering cooperation and understanding between the public and private sectors. Aside from gathering manpower agencies, DOLE also engaged with the construction industry on January 30. (IJBD/PIA-10)