Labor, safety checks rolled out for Iloilo transport co-ops

By Mariela Angella Oladive

A multi-agency inspection of transport cooperatives is underway in Iloilo City, with labor authorities emphasizing the enforcement of standards and worker protection as the central focus of the initiative.

The Department of Labor and Employment in Western Visayas, together with several government agencies, conducted “high-impact, high-visibility” inspections from March 24 to 25 targeting transport cooperatives across the city.

DOLE-6 Regional Director Sixto Rodriguez Jr. said the activity marks the first time in the region that multiple partner agencies have carried out a joint inspection of the transport sector.

“This is the first time in the region that different partner agencies are involved. We are mandated to protect workers and promote their welfare,” Rodriguez said during a press conference on March 25, adding that the activity is primarily meant to determine whether transport operators are violating labor and safety laws.

The inspections focused on compliance with labor standards and occupational safety and health requirements.

Among those checked were the payment of minimum wage, overtime pay and holiday pay, working hours, rest periods and the remittance of social security contributions.

Authorities also assessed operational and safety conditions, including vehicle roadworthiness, driver fitness, workplace conditions and terminal safety.

Participating agencies include the Land Transportation Office, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, Department of Health, Social Security System, PhilHealth and Pag-IBIG Fund.

Officials said the joint inspections aim to strengthen compliance, reduce workplace risks and ensure the protection of both workers and passengers in the transport sector.

Following the inspections, an interagency Government Service Caravan will be rolled out from March 26 to 27 in major transport terminals to bring services directly to transport workers.

The caravan will be conducted at Vallacar Transit, or Ceres Terminal, in Jaro, as well as at Ungka Terminal and Mohon Terminal.

Services to be offered include health consultations, membership registration, benefits assistance, records updating and guidance on licensing and regulatory compliance.

DOLE said the inspections and service caravan form part of a broader effort to promote decent work, improve safety standards and ensure accessible government services through coordinated action among agencies.