DOLE-NIR boosts HR labor standards compliance

ACOLOD CITY — The Department of Labor and Employment–Negros Island Region, through its Negros Occidental Field Office, strengthened its advocacy for fair and lawful employment practices by engaging human resource practitioners in a discussion on general labor standards on April 29, 2026.

The session was held during the General Membership Meeting of the People Professionals Network of Negros Occidental Inc. as part of the 124th Labor Day celebration themed “Disenteng Trabaho Para sa Lahat: Iisang Hangarin! Bagong Pilipinas, Sama-samang Makarating.”

Held at Metro Inn Hotel, the activity gathered 89 HR professionals from 46 establishments in Negros Occidental.

DOLE-NIR said the event recognized HR practitioners’ critical role as frontliners in ensuring compliance with labor laws and fostering harmonious workplace relations.

A key highlight of the program was the session “General Labor Standards: Translating Labor Law into HR Practice,” delivered by Gretchen I. Pasiolan.

The session emphasized the practical application of labor laws in everyday HR functions.

“Employers and HRs play a crucial role in ensuring that labor laws are translated into everyday practices that benefit both the workforce and the organization”, Ms. Pasiolan stated.

By simplifying legal provisions and linking them to actual workplace scenarios, the session helped participants better understand how to integrate compliance into company policies and procedures.

DOLE-NIR said the approach helps ensure that workers’ rights are protected not only in principle but also in daily operations.

HR practitioners serve as vital partners in promoting decent work.

With enhanced knowledge of labor standards, they are better equipped to guide management decisions, address employee concerns promptly, and prevent potential disputes through clear and consistent implementation of policies.

The open forum further enriched the discussion by allowing participants to raise real-life concerns and seek clarification on complex labor issues.

The exchange of insights strengthened collaboration between DOLE and HR practitioners, helping ensure that workplace challenges are addressed with accurate and responsive guidance.

Through initiatives like this, DOLE continues to bring labor education closer to key stakeholders, particularly HR practitioners who play a pivotal role in bridging management and workers.

By equipping them with knowledge and tools, the department reinforces its commitment to protecting workers’ rights while promoting industrial peace across workplaces.

The activity highlights DOLE’s ongoing efforts to build a culture of compliance and cooperation where informed HR practitioners help create safe, fair, and productive work environments for all.