Former senator and newly appointed Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino on Tuesday pledged to immediately scrutinize contractualization practices and other labor issues in the country, while strengthening labor protections and enforcing existing laws that safeguard workers’ rights, as he assumed leadership of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
Speaking in an interview on DZRH Damdaming Bayan on May 26, Tolentino said he was acting on the marching orders of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure dignity, security, and stronger protection for Filipino workers.
“Marami po, lalong-lalo na po siguro ang pagbibigay ng dignidad sa ating manggagawa at siguro pagpapalakas sa kanilang hanay lalong-lalo na sa pagpapatupad ng mga batas na magbibigay proteksyon para sa kanila… Lahat naman po ito ay evolving din dahil sa mga pangangailangan ng panahon,” Tolentino said.
He emphasized that improving the welfare and dignity of workers, as well as reinforcing labor organizations and compliance mechanisms, would be central to his agenda.
On the issue of contractualization, Tolentino said the government would closely examine existing policies, particularly Department Order No. 174 and the so-called “5-5-5” arrangement.
He vowed swift action on the matter, saying the government would “dig into” and review the system comprehensively as part of efforts to curb labor abuse and improve job security for workers.
“Mahaba-haba ‘yan pero isa po ‘yan sa mga bubusisiin ko lalong-lalo na sa pagpapatupad ng Order 174, tungkol sa 5-5-5 sa tinatawag na endo,” the new labor chief said.
“Lahat po ‘yan ay bubungkalin natin at makakaasa po kayo na mabilis din po ang aksyon,” he added.
Tolentino also pointed to his previous legislative work during the 18th and 19th Congress, saying he has long been active in addressing labor issues, including contractualization reforms.
The new labor chief also said he will review pressing labor concerns, including wage issues amid rising inflation.
“Kung makikita niyo ang record ko noon noong 18th-19th Congress kasama po ako sa mga tumutok diyan... Kung gaano po tayo kaaktibo noong nakaraang panahon… simula pa noong MMDA ganito rin po iyon,” Tolentino emphasized.
He said his appointment gives him an opportunity to demonstrate more aggressive and responsive leadership within the department, drawing parallels with his previous role as chair of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), where he said he pursued active and decisive governance.
Tolentino has been appointed acting secretary of DOLE following the resignation of former labor chief Bienvenido Laguesma, who stepped down due to health reasons
