QUEZON PROVINCE — The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Quezon Provincial Office has successfully resolved the labor complaint filed by six construction workers following a conciliation–mediation conference held in Lucena City on December 26, 2025. The settlement was facilitated under the Single-Entry Approach (SEnA), a mechanism designed to provide a speedy, accessible, and non-litigious resolution to labor disputes.

Under the agreement, the workers were granted a total of ₱80,000 in verified monetary claims, covering wage deficiencies, unpaid 13th month pay, and other legally mandated benefits. DOLE representatives confirmed that the claims were carefully reviewed and validated before the settlement was finalized, ensuring fairness for both parties involved.

The case stemmed from complaints lodged by the workers, who reported receiving wages below the legally required amount and being denied their 13th month pay and other benefits. For many laborers in the construction sector—one of the most physically demanding and often informal industries—such violations are not uncommon. What makes this case noteworthy is not only the resolution itself, but the process by which it was achieved.

From a broader perspective, the outcome underscores the importance of accessible government intervention in labor disputes. Rather than escalating into lengthy court battles that drain both time and resources, the SEnA process allowed the workers to assert their rights in a dignified and peaceful manner. It also sent a clear message to employers that labor standards are not optional, regardless of the size of the workforce or the temporary nature of construction projects.

This resolution invites a wider discourse on labor protection in the Philippines. While the ₱80,000 settlement provided relief to the affected workers, it also raises questions about how many similar cases go unreported due to fear, lack of awareness, or limited access to legal support. Strengthening labor education and proactive inspections may be key to preventing such violations before they occur. Ultimately, the case reflects how effective mediation, when backed by strong labor laws, can restore fairness in the workplace and reaffirm the dignity of Filipino workers. (Larawan: DOLE Quezon / Facebook)