City of Calamba, Laguna – A total of P200,000 in monetary benefits was provided to a 60-year-old construction worker under the SENA program, following the settlement of the Request for Assistance on November 28, 2024 involving a Laguna-based construction firm.

The worker who dedicated 19 years of service to the company, claimed that he was dismissed following a misunderstanding with the company owner, with whom he had cultivated a close bond over the years. Despite his grievance over the lack of due process in his termination, the worker expressed a sincere desire to maintain his friendship with the owner while seeking fair compensation.

During the conferences facilitated by Ms. Cesiah Ana Betoy, Administrative Officer IV of the Regional Conciliation and Mediation Branch IV-A (RCMB IV-A), the worker exhibited remarkable maturity and understanding. He emphasized that his pursuit of justice was not intended to sever ties but to address the perceived unfairness of his dismissal.

While the company’s owner was not able to attend the discussions, the owner’s son and the Human Resource Manager made representation in the conferences, underscoring the firm’s commitment to resolving the matter through peaceful dialogue.

During the final conference, the worker agreed to accept the management’s offer of P200,000 as settlement. The resolution not only addressed the worker’s concerns but also reinforced the goodwill between the two parties.

The settlement of the labor dispute highlights the RCMB IV-A’s vital role in fostering harmonious labor-management relations through open communication and fair negotiations. The Branch’s commitment to integrity and fairness continues to set a standard for effective mediation and conciliation in the workplace.

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