RCMB-CARAGA joins capacity-building training to enhance union officers’  leadership skills as part of DOLE’s WODP initiative.

San Jose, Province of Dinagat Islands –  As part of its continuing efforts to empower labor organizations and promote harmonious workplace relations, the Regional Conciliation and Mediation Branch XIII-Caraga (RCMB-CARAGA) joined the Department of Labor and Employment – Province of Dinagat Islands (DOLE-PDI) Field Office in conducting a capacity-building session for union officers on March 20, 2025.

Aimed at enhancing the leadership competencies of union officers, the activity held at the Kamanting Function Hall in Barangay Sta. Cruz is part of the Department’s Workers Organization Development Program (WODP). Through this initiative, DOLE seeks to strengthen labor organizations by equipping their leaders with the necessary skills and knowledge to represent and support their members effectively.

Regional Director Aerrine Marie Reyes, who served as resource speaker during the session, emphasized that an empowered and well-informed union leadership plays a crucial role in fostering a transparent, collaborative, and productive work environment, ultimately benefiting both workers and management.

A total of 30 officers and members from two private unions— Cagdianao Mining Workers Union (CAMWU) and Libjo Mining Workers Union (LIMWU)—actively participated in the training.

Director Reyes delivered an in-depth discussion on Grievance Handling and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), focusing on the critical role of bipartite mechanisms in addressing workplace disputes at the earliest stage. Director Reyes stressed that a well-functioning bipartite mechanism, the Grievance Machinery (GM), serves as a tool in promoting open communication and mutual understanding between labor and management, thereby preventing minor issues from escalating into major labor disputes.

“Union officers play a crucial role in grievance handling as the primary representatives of their members,” Director Reyes stated. “Their ability to effectively navigate grievance procedures effectively ensures that workplace concerns are properly raised, constructively discussed, and resolved, thereby contributing to a more harmonious and responsive labor-management relationship,” she added.

Representatives from CAMWU and LIMWU during the DOLE-PDI capacity-building event.

She also reiterated the Board’s strong commitment to promoting fair, transparent, and efficient dispute resolution processes. This includes providing technical assistance and facilitating constructive dialogue between workers and management.  She emphasized that these efforts are essential in upholding industrial peace and fostering a cooperative workplace environment for all.end/mcja