On March 5, 2023, some 75 kasambahays in Davao Region were treated to a Fun Day activity held at the SM City Davao with the theme, “Kasambahay sa makabagong Panahon, Kaagapay at Katuwang natin sa Pagbangon.” Said activity was conducted by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) XI as another segment of the 10^th Araw ng Kasambahay that took place earlier this year.

The event was proudly presented in partnership with the Tulong Alalay Sa Kaunlaran (TASK) Kasambahay and the City Government of Davao, bringing together a diverse and enthusiastic crowd of domestic workers, employers, government agencies, and other stakeholders.

In his welcome message, DOLE XI Regional Director Atty. Randolf C. Pensoy, expressed his gratitude for everyone’s presence and participation in the event, and emphasized the importance of recognizing the vital role of kasambahays in our society. He also highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring the protection and promotion of the rights and welfare of domestic workers, as mandated by the Batas Kasambahay.

The kasambahays received raffle prizes and gifts from the Office Cong. Paolo “Pulong” Duterte of the 1st Congressional District of Davao City, represented by Mr. Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II. Aside from the fun, some members of the TASK Kasambahay presented their programs and services that are focused on the protection of rights and development of technical skills of kasambahays, such as the SSS Coverage for Kasambahay, ALS Senior High School Curriculum 2023-2024 and Life Skills, Scholarship for Skills Training with NC Package Profiling, etc.

Another highlight of the fun day was the Kasambahay Got Talent competition. Mr. Reynante Empuerto from Digos City, Davao del Sur bested 10 other contestants and took home the first place with Php 5,000.00 cash prize. Ms. Jullet Gonzales from IGaCoS, Davao del Norte and Ms. Antonette Pedro from Davao del Sur won the second and third places with Php 4,000.00 and Php 3,000.00 cash prizes, respectively.

One kasamabahay who also stood out that day was Ms. Grace M. Gentapa who represented Davao Region to the nationwide search for Sampung Natatanging Kasambahay by the office of Senator Jinggoy Estrada. Her inspiring story was shared through an audio-visual presentation, highlighting her 27 years of exceptional dedication, hard work, and contribution to her family and employer. The award served as a recognition of her outstanding performance as a domestic worker, and a testament to the critical role that kasambahay play in households and communities.

Further, DOLE XI commemorated the enactment of Republic Act 10361, also known as the Batas Kasambahay. This law was signed in 2013 and aims to strengthen the protection and promotion of the rights and welfare of domestic workers, including their social and economic well-being.

DOLE XI chairs the TASK Kasambahay composed of DSWD XI, DILG XI, DepEd XI, TESDA XI, HDMF XI, RTWPB XI, PHIC XI, SSS XI, PIA XI, San Pedro College, CSWDO-Davao City, and Liga ng Barangay – Davao City. Heads and representatives of said offices were present during the whole-day activity. The Kasambahay Fun Day 2023 was spearheaded by the DOLE XI Technical Services and Support Division led by OIC-Chief Paul V. Cruz and TASK Kasambahay Regional Focal Person Eduardo Monreal.### MFKM