42 workers get P8.2M in judgment awards via DOLE

By Connie Calipay

LEGAZPI CITY --- A total of 42 workers affected by a labor dispute in Naga City have received PHP8.2 million in judgment awards after the Department of Labor and Employment in Bicol (DOLE-5) issued a compliance order to address the issues, a labor official said on Tuesday.

In a media release, Imelda Gatinao, regional director of DOLE-5, reported that the affected workers received their monetary awards in December 2024.

She said the case arose from a labor inspection at a local establishment, which uncovered significant underpayment of wages and other related benefits.

"If you encounter a problem, don't hesitate to visit our office," Gatinao said, assuring workers that the department is always willing to assist those in need.

The beneficiary-workers thanked DOLE and its personnel for their unwavering support in successfully resolving the case.

One of them, Agne (not her real name), said, "Thank you, DOLE, for helping us resolve the case. I thought there wouldn't be a resolution, so I am surprised that we received our judgment awards." (PNA)

AWARDED. Imelda Gatinao, regional director of the Department of Labor and Employment in Bicol (DOLE-5), hands over the judgment checks of workers who won a labor case in this undated photo. A total of 42 workers received PHP8.2 million in monetary award after a compliance order was issued by the agency to their employer. (Photo courtesy of DOLE-5)