Snapshots from the May 23, 2025, Labor Education Seminar at Trishland Resort, Mangaldan, Pangasinan—capturing a day of insightful discussions, collaboration, and commitment to better labor-management relations.

Mangaldan, Pangasinan – “The AWS is not just an event—it is a shared journey toward strengthening our labor-management relations. It empowers both parties with the knowledge and tools needed to build mutual trust and address workplace concerns constructively,” said Regional Conciliation and Mediation Branch-I (RCMB-I) Director Brenda Rose Odsey in her welcome message to the industry experts, HR professionals, and organizational leaders.

Director Odsey delivered her remarks during the Labor Education Seminar held on May 23, 2025, at Trishland Resort, Mangaldan, Pangasinan. With the theme “Employee Management and Development”, the seminar brought together key stakeholders from various sectors to promote constructive dialogue, mutual understanding, and collaboration in the workplace.

Organized in partnership with the Ilocos Conflict Administration and Resolution Ensemble (I-CARE), the event aimed to equip participants with essential knowledge and strategies to manage and develop a highly engaged and productive workforce effectively.

Enhancing Workforce Excellence

Ms. Rochelle Bautista, HR manager of an electric distribution company in Pangasinan, led the introductory session on Performance Management and Succession Planning. During her discussion, she highlighted the vital role that performance evaluation plays in driving organizational success. 

“It’s not just about identifying gaps,” she explained.  It is about recognizing excellence, guiding improvement, and aligning efforts with organizational goals.”

She further emphasized that a well-structured performance management system motivates employees, fosters accountability, and cultivates a culture of excellence within the organization.

As her presentation transitioned to succession planning, she emphasized its importance in building organizational resilience.  She noted that effective succession planning enables companies to identify high-potential individuals, prepare them for future leadership roles, and ensure a steady pipeline of talent ready to step up when the need arises.

Empowering Growth

A team from the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Regional Office I also took part in the area-wide activity, where they discussed the value of establishing a workplace cooperative.

“Don’t hesitate to start your own cooperative—because the benefits it brings to its members go far beyond financial gains. It’s an investment in shared growth and security,” emphasized Ms. Jocelyn Vasquez, CDA Cooperative Development Specialist.

PhilHealth’s Commitment to Universal Healthcare

A session on PhilHealth programs and services, led by Ms. Madonna Valdez from the Eastern Pangasinan Health Office of PhilHealth was also delivered to inform participants of available benefits and coverage. In her presentation, she provided a comprehensive overview of the agency’s ongoing initiatives and recent updates in line with the country’s universal healthcare system.

Ms. Valdez highlighted the wide range of benefit packages available to members, including inpatient and outpatient services, as well as special benefits for vulnerable sectors such as senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and indigent families.

Closing Reflections and Words of Appreciation

To close the event, I-CARE president Mr. Michael Naboye delivered a heartfelt message to the participants, expressing gratitude to RCMB-I for organizing the seminar, and issuing a call to action for all attendees.

“If we want to improve our take-home income, forming cooperatives within our workplace is a sustainable way forward,” he said.  Through shared earnings at the end of the year, we can enjoy what we call our ‘14th-month pay,’ which comes from our own productivity and shared efforts”.

The recently concluded seminar marked a significant  step in RCMB-I’s continuing efforts to strengthen labor-management relations.  It emphasized the importance of fairness, mutual respect, and open communication—core values essential to fostering peaceful, productive, and resilient workplaces.

end/jcee, edited by lbp