DOLE-6 inspects sacadas’ temporary dwellings

The Department of Labor and Employment Regional Office No. 6–Negros Occidental Field Office (NOFO) intensified the inspection of temporary dwelling facilities of migratory sugar workers (MSWs) or “sacadas” that were transported from the Province of Antique.

The inspections were conducted on Aug 17 to Sept 11, 2020.

“The inspection of dwelling facilities was intensified to align with the protocols in preventing the further spread of COVID-19,” explained Mary Agnes N. Capigon, DOLE Negros Occidental Field Office Head.

The inspection covered temporary dwelling facilities of the haciendas in Bacolod City, Murcia, Silay City, Talisay City, Bago City, Kabankalan City, Isabela, Binalbagan, Victorias City, Pontevedra, La Castellana, La Carlota City and Pulupandan.

These initiatives were brought about by a request of the planters’ group of Negros Occidental for an early inspection of the temporary dwelling facilities of MSWs in anticipation of an early harvest season this 2020.

In response, Regional Director Cyril L. Ticao raised with the Central Office that the existing inspection procedures and checklist are not aligned with IATF issuances.

A memorandum with a checklist aligned with the safety and health protocols of DOH and IATF was then released by the Central Office.

Aside from inspection, the DOLE is also preparing for the manner of transfer of the sacadas.

“We have been issuing authority to hire to planters. Hence, our office is now preparing for the arrival of MSWs since their transportation will not be the same as previously practiced and safety protocols shall be strictly observed,” Capigon said.

Negros Occidental expects 3,034 MSWs for the month of October and November this year.