The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has vowed to continue its commitment to serve Filipino workers, employers, and jobseekers as it commemorates its 88th founding anniversary on Wednesday, Dec. 8.
Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III underscored the significant role of DOLE employees in carrying out the Department’s mandate, not only during the pandemic but especially as the country moves toward economic recovery.
"Our government is committed to giving the assistance that our workers rightfully deserve. We cannot do this without the service and commitment of our employees at the Department," Bello said.
Anchored on the theme "Tuloy-tuloy na PagTUPAD sa serbisyong tapat," this year's celebration will be highlighted by weeklong activities to honor the dedication and hard work of DOLE employees.
These include the launching of simultaneous hybrid job fairs nationwide with over 15,000 local and overseas work opportunities for jobseekers and displaced workers.
A bazaar will also be opened to be participated by accredited partners of the Bureau of Workers with Special Concerns (BWSC) and DOLE-National Capital Region at the DOLE Central Office in Intramuros, Manila.
DOLE employees will also participate in a clean-up drive at the Manila Baywalk Dolomite Beach, while retirees and those who have been in public service for over 10 years will be given recognition.
Culminating the weeklong celebration is the administration of flu vaccines to DOLE personnel on Friday, Dec. 10.
The DOLE started as a small bureau in 1908 under the then Department of Commerce and Police. On December 8, 1933, the Bureau of Labor was constituted as a department by virtue of Republic Act 4121.
Since then, DOLE has continuously evolved its thrusts and strategies to respond to emerging socio-political and economic challenges while keeping as a primary concern the protection and promotion of the welfare of local and overseas Filipino workers.
It administers five bureaus, 11 attached agencies, 16 regional offices, and 38 overseas offices.