The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Francis N. Tolentino with DOLE Bicol OIC-Regional Director Nepomuceno A. Leaño II, CPA, and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Bicolandia strengthened their partnership to provide workers with more accessible legal assistance and education through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on August 17, 2026, in Legazpi City.
The MOA aims to bring legal services closer to the workers, particularly on matters concerning their rights in the workplace and It also provides legal advice and assistance, as well as seminars and learning sessions to help workers better understand labor laws, their rights, and mechanisms for protection in the workplace.
The partnership reinforces Secretary Tolentino’s commitment to forging strong institutional partnerships that advance workers’ rights and welfare and make essential labor services more accessible.
IBP Bicolandia Executive Vice President and Governor Atty. Randall Tabayoyong said the agreement aims to provide more accessible legal services to workers, particularly on matters concerning their rights and labor unions.
Under the agreement, each IBP Chapter will have a lawyer on standby to provide legal advice and assist workers facing legal concerns, including cases involving alleged abuse in the workplace.
Through this collaboration, DOLE Bicol and IBP Bicolandia reaffirmed their shared commitment to protecting workers, promoting decent work, and empowering workers through accessible legal support. Those who are less in Life must have more in law.
The MOA signing was also witnessed by OIC Assistant Regional Director Ching Banania; DOLE Albay Provincial Office Head, Marilyn Luzuriaga; IBP Albay Chapter President, Atty. Joan Elizabeth Lorenzano-Aquende ; IBP Camarines Sur Chapter President, Atty. Fe Rosario P. Pejo Buelva of; and IBP Sorsogon Chapter President, Atty. Lina G. Jimenez, represented by Atty. Annalyn Hibo-Gamboa. [END] JVEG
Source: DOLE Bicol