By Raymart Escopel
THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Western Visayas continues to intensify its program in ensuring safety and health in workplaces by partnering with various units.
Recently, DOLE entered into a joint venture with the Safety Organization of Negros Occidental (SONO) Inc., through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).
During the signing, DOLE-6 was represented by Regional Director Ponciano Ligutom, while SONO was represented by its president, Helen Alagban. The MOA signing was also witnessed by DOLE Negros Occidental Field Office Provincial Manager Ma. Victoria Mondragon.
The partnership aims that both parties work together for a more effective delivery of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) trainings and other related activities in the region.
The MOA states that SONO, as an active partner of DOLE-6 will provide the following:
- jointly conduct training/OSH with DOLE-6
- provide administrative and secretariat support in the conduct if OSH training and advocacy activities
- utilize the services only of DOLE-accredited safety practitioners and or consultants as resource speakers on Basic Occupational Safety and Health and Construction Safety Trainings
- periodically monitor the implementation of re-entry plans made by participants and submit an annual report about such plans, and
- coordinate/arrange plant visits, if necessary
DOLE-6 on the other hand is assigned to provide resource speakers, if necessary, on topics related to OSH legislation, policies and guidelines including its implementation and enforcement.
Both parties shall also conduct planning of activities on various programs and activities in the region to promote safety and health in various workplaces.
Ligutom hopes the recently inked partnership will become fruitful in promoting its goal.
Meanwhile, on her part, Alagban expressed her excitement as she looks forward in working with DOLE-6 in the promotion of various health and safety activities.
Alagban added the MOA means a lot to SONO as the partnership will serve as a way in carrying out their laid-out plans for the year. /PN
