RCMB-XII team and the PADPAO Officers and representatives during the meeting on February 24, 2025.

Koronadal City, South Cotabato— In a concerted effort to expand the application of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms in the security services sector, the Regional Conciliation and Mediation Branch XII (RCMB-XII) held a strategic meeting with the officers of the Philippine Association of Detective and Protective Agency Operators, Inc. (PADPAO) on February 24, 2025.

The discussion served as a platform for RCMB-XII to present its programs and emphasize the benefits of ADR in efficiently resolving workplace disputes. PADPAO officers and representatives welcomed the proactive engagement, acknowledging its importance in addressing labor challenges faced by the industry and fostering industrial peace.

Held at the PADPAO Office in General Santos City, OIC-Regional Branch Director Rene A. Sabornido led the meeting with six (6) PADPAO officers and representatives as attendees. Present during the activity were President Elpidio Tan, Treasurer Albertano Fernandez, Board of Director Joel S. Hocamis, HR Officer Brandyl Kristine Cardona of SOCOPA Security Agency, Inc., Edward Mella of Smart Guard Security Services, Inc., and Training Academy representative Fernando Cartagena.

Among the key concerns discussed during the meeting were issues related to contract terminations, wage increases, and the prevalence of unregistered security agencies that undermine industry standards.

A notable challenge highlighted was the common practice of security guards to file labor disputes directly with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) offices instead of attempting to first resolve their complaints through internal channels. This underscores the need to strengthen ADR mechanisms to improve communication between security personnel and agency management.

To address these challenges, RCMB-XII and PADPAO officials committed to implement a series of collaborative activities aimed at improving labor-management relations. These plans will equip security agencies with tools for dispute-resolution, and promote industrial peace within the sector. Planned activities include capacity-building programs and awareness campaigns to educate both employers and employees on the benefits of ADR. The goal is to foster a culture of open dialogue and cooperation.

This partnership between RCMB-XII and the security services sector enhances their collaboration, ensuring that security agencies and personnel have access to effective dispute resolution mechanisms. 

RCMB-XII is dedicated to promoting ADR as an essential tool for achieving industrial peace in all sectors. By fostering collaboration and advocacy, the Board strives to strengthen the security industry’s compliance with labor laws, improve professionalism among security agencies, and create a more stable and harmonious work environment for all stakeholders.

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