Ilocos Region – Following the successful conduct of Plant-Level Orientation Seminars by the Regional Conciliation and Mediation Branch I (RCMB I), three (3) distinguished companies in two (2) provinces in the Ilocos Region were educated on the programs of the National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB).

The series of seminars commenced on March 11, 2025, at 2 Brothers Grocery, Inc. in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, where management and employees were introduced to key concepts of dispute resolution and workplace cooperation. RCMB I continued its efforts by holding two more sessions in Pangasinan—one at the Central Pangasinan Hospital and Medical Center (CPHMC) in Binmaley on March  12, 2025 and another at Sto. Thomas Catholic School in Mangaldan on March 20, 2025. 

Led by RCMB I Technical Unit Supervising Labor and Employment Officer Mr. Lester Panem together with Mr. John Chester Erestingcol, and Mr. Vincent Remular, the sessions featured in-depth and interactive discussions on NCMB’s flagship programs such as Labor-Management Cooperation (LMC) and Grievance Machinery (GM). These mechanisms are central to the agency’s goal of fostering harmonious work environments through proactive and collaborative conflict resolution. 

During the sessions, RCMB I representatives emphasized the critical role of bipartite ADR mechanisms in fostering a culture rooted in collaboration, open communication, and mutual respect in the workplace. 

Participants gained insights on how effective communication fosters mutual understanding, enhances teamwork, and contributes to overall workplace productivity. Practical examples were presented to illustrate how LMC programs can be successfully implemented to resolve conflicts effectively while promoting cooperation as a core workplace value.

The technical team also underscored the significance of GM in handling workplace concerns effectively. They explained how GM provides a clear structured process for addressing and resolving grievances, giving attendees the step-by-step process in managing conflicts constructively.

At CPHMC, Mr. Panem reminded the participants on the importance of not posting work-related complaints especially on social media platforms, stating, “It is unethical and does nothing to help resolve the conflict.” His reminder underscored the importance of using proper communication channels to address workplace concerns.

Participants acknowledged the vital role of effective communication in maintaining business continuity and a harmonious working environment. The orientation also reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to upholding fair labor practices and fostering a culture of mutual respect, cooperation, and proactive conflict resolution.

Participants across all three sessions expressed strong appreciation for the initiative. “We seldom have government orientations conducted here,” said Mr. Diony Llanes, HR Manager of Two Brothers Grocery, “and I am glad that this has been one of them.”

Dr. Fernando Fernandez, Hospital Director of CPHMC, added, “NCMB’s programs oriented to us now are very timely because the hospital is in its maiden months. We are glad that such have been shared and we learned a lot.” 

This initiative is in line with the Board’s vision of being a center of excellence in fostering harmonious workplace relationships, promoting the effective use of LMC and ADR mechanisms. 

Through these seminars, RCMB-I has not only educated companies on the importance of dispute resolution mechanisms but has also reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring labor-management harmony in the workplace. These efforts continue to pave the way for stronger and more collaborative and productive work environments throughout the region.

end/jcee, lbp