Workers in the informal economy across Davao Region were honored during the conduct of the 2022 Regional Labor Day Celebration for the Workers in the Informal Sector led by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) XI in partnership with the Department of the Interior and Local Government XI, Department of Trade and Industry XI, Local Government Units, and DOLE XI Accredited Co-Partners.

Pursuant to Proclamation No. 1215, the celebration aimed to recognize the contribution of the workers in the informal sector to the Philippine economy. DOLE XI Field and Satellite Offices across the region spearheaded the conduct of the celebration from May 31 to June 9, 2022 attended by a total of 281 workers in the informal sector.

In line with the theme “Manggagawa sa Impormal na Sektor, Matatag na Ugnayan Tungo sa Matatag na Pagbangon,” the celebration presented activities like learning sessions on innovative approaches to promote business recovery and development, special dialogue between the Local Government/Government Agencies with workers in the informal sector, updates and orientation on DOLE programs and services such as DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP), Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Displaced/Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD), Child Labor Prevention and Elimination Program, and Registration of Workers Association, among others.

“We are thankful to DOLE XI for inviting us to this activity. We gained new understanding in terms of managing our livelihood and handling our finances. The informal sector is always grateful for your constant support,” said Ella Cañete, a beneficiary of DILP in Malita, Davao Occidental.

DOLE XI Regional Director Atty. Randolf C. Pensoy joined the celebration and paid tribute to the hard work and resilience of the workers in the informal sector especially in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. “This celebration is a recognition of your perseverance to provide better lives to your families as well as your contribution to the progress of your respective communities. We, in the Department, pledge to efficiently deliver the DOLE programs and services that are intended to help the informal economy recover from the global health crisis,” said RD Pensoy.

RD Pensoy also delivered the keynote message of Labor Secretary Silvestre H. Bello III which highlighted the campaign of the government for the transition of the informal sector into the formal economy as a means of ensuring workers’ protection under the laws. ### MFKM/Photos by Livelihood Team