DOLE Western Visayas marks Araw ng Kasambahay

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The Department of Labor and Employment Regional Office 6 spearheaded the regional celebration of Araw ng Kasambahay on Feb. 7, 2026, at the penthouse of Iloilo City Hall.

The event was in collaboration with the Department of Health, the Social Security System, PhilHealth, the Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG), the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board, the Public Employment Service Office-Iloilo City and the Iloilo City government,

The activity commemorated the signing into law of Republic Act 10361, or the Domestic Workers Act, also known as the Batas Kasambahay.

Organizers said the event also recognized the contributions of domestic workers in household and property management, as well as caregiving for employers and their families.

Domestic workers’ services allow employers to report to work or attend to their businesses with peace of mind and a sense of security at home, the organizers said.

The celebration highlighted the release of DOLE livelihood assistance in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s administration agenda on poverty alleviation and economic stability for kasambahays and other marginalized sectors.

Shiela Jean Balacantra and Rogelyn Dedel were among the qualified beneficiaries, with each set to receive inputs for a goat-raising project.

Evangeline Bigcas will venture into rice and water retailing while Liezel Retome will start a sari-sari store and rice retailing project.

Beyond recognition, DOLE said the celebration reflects its commitment to empower kasambahays by increasing their awareness of labor concerns and the programs they can access.

A learning session on Republic Act 10361, or the Domestic Workers Law, aimed to strengthen participants’ understanding of their rights and privileges.

A discussion on International Labor Organization Convention 190 sought to enhance participants’ understanding of their right to a world of work free of violence and harassment, as well as appropriate responses and the government agencies where they can seek assistance.

Recognizing the need of kasambahays for social protection, Regional Director Atty. Sixto T. Rodriguez Jr. organized a help desk with representatives from the SSS, Pag-IBIG and TESDA.

The help desk facilitated membership registration, updating of records and answered questions on the programs and services offered by partner agencies.

The DOH kNOwTell van and its medical team provided free vitamins and maintenance medicines, as well as consultations for hypertension and diabetes.

The medical team also offered HIV testing and mental health screening while TESDA provided free massage services.

The Iloilo City government offered free manicure and pedicure services.