2025-05-01 to 2025-05-21

Bangsamoro Labor Day Celebration (123rd Labor Day)

COTABATO CITY?In celebration of the 123rd Labor Day, the Ministry of Labor and Employment (MOLE) of the Bangsamoro Government led the commemorative program on May 1, at the OCM grounds inside Bangsamoro Government Center. Bearing the theme, “Manggagawang Bangsamoro, Kaagapay sa Pag-unlad, Sandigan ng Mas Matatag na Bagong Pilipinas,” the event honored the vital role of Bangsamoro workers in nation-building and regional development. The said celebration began with a parade involving various BARMM ministries, offices and agencies, other government agencies, workers and employers from the private sector, workers associations and unions, and former overseas Bangsamoro workers—further symbolizing unity across the Bangsamoro workforce that continues to drive a progressive community. MOLE Deputy Minister Tommy Nawa, in his joint opening remarks with Labor Minister Muslimin ‘Bapa Mus’ Sema, urged continued support for programs benefiting workers, who are the foundation of society. Labor Minister Sema also reaffirmed the Bangsamoro government’s commitment to development by stating, “Under the leadership of Interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua and guided by good governance, the Bangsamoro government remains committed to empowering workers through inclusive programs and strong labor protections.” Additionally, he expressed his vision of a future where no one is left behind. Director Khalid Hassan, the Country Office Director for International Labour Organization (ILO) Philippines, then underscored the significance of decent work and social justice, describing them as “the key for sustainable growth, lasting peace, and true recovery.” Furthermore, to strengthen collaboration between labor and management sectors, Engr. Jonathan Acosta and Mr. Datu Haron Bandila spoke respectively on behalf of their groups. Both agreed that collective action can yield significant results and that steadfast commitment is essential to the region’s continued development. BARMM Chief Minister Macacua emphasized the government’s commitment to uplifting the region’s workforce. He highlighted the Bangsamoro government, through the labor ministry, is working to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities and ensure that marginalized workers receive the recognition, protection, and support they deserve. This commitment has been reflected in the distribution of government subsidies to various beneficiaries across multiple programs. Among the recipients were four beneficiaries under the Bangsamoro Rural Employment through Entrepreneurial Development (BREED), ten from the Set-A-Kart package through the Bangsamoro Integrated Livelihood Program (BILP), one hundred interns under the Bangsamoro Internship Development Program (BIDP), eighteen recipients under the Social Benefits Program for Overseas Bangsamoro Workers (OBWs), and eighty-eight more under Assistance Program for Repatriated Abused and Distressed OBWs. Continuing the celebration of workers’ dedication and contribution, five women workers from five private establishments received “Ilaw ng Dedikasyon Award” in recognition of their long-term service in their respective workplaces. The award, symbolizing an unwavering light that shines even in times of adversity, honors dedicated Bangsamoro workers. Following this, the “Huwarang Manggagawa” award was conferred upon Ma. Julieta E. Fuentebaja of Filidian International Inc., in recognition of her exemplary work performance. This very award shall inspire other Bangsamoro workers to strive for excellence as well. The celebration continued beyond the main program with a series of community-centered activities held at CityMall Cotabato. Various ministries across the Bangsamoro government offered accessible programs and services aimed at supporting employment, legal aid, health, and livelihood development. The MOLE, through its Bureau of Employment, Promotion and Welfare (BEPW), organized a Job Fair to link jobseekers with potential employers. At the same time, its Bureau of Labor Relations and Standards (BLRS) facilitated the registration of workers’ associations and business establishments. Connecting talent with opportunity, the job fair brought 1,116 various job offers from fifteen participating establishments to 515 job hunters, with thirteen on-the-spot hires. Among them was 23-year-old Al-Faham K. Abdulbayan, set to work as a fresh market staff at KCC Mall of Cotabato through 3ME Manpower Services, a local recruitment agency. “This event is really good and convenient for jobseekers. It is easier for us because there is an all-in-one venue like this. The organizers here are very accommodating,” he said. “I’m really thankful because the government thought and conducted this program for us jobseekers. We feel valued, including the employers,” Abdulbayan added. Meanwhile, the MOLE partnered with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) and Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) Cotabato to offer free legal services, including counseling and notarization. The Bangsamoro Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (BTWPB) also launched kasambahay registration. In support of livelihood and health initiatives, several ministries and agencies also extended free services to the public. The Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism (MTIT), and the Cooperative and Social Enterprise Authority (CSEA) managed the free business registration and registration of cooperatives, respectively, for aspiring entrepreneurs, encouraging small business growth in the region. Project TABANG distributed free medicines to promote community health and wellness, while the Ministry of Health (MOH) administered free vaccines against pneumonia and Human Papillomavirus (HPV), underscoring the government’s commitment to preventive care. The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) provided approximately 200 sets of seedlings and fertilizers to support local farming efforts. The Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) also held a product display of their Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) beneficiaries. Lastly, the PAG-IBIG Fund delivered a range of services, including online membership registration, multi-purpose loan verification, housing loan consultations, the One Plus One (OPO) program, upgraded contributions, and provident fund inquiries—further broadening access to financial services. The celebration highlighted the Bangsamoro government’s commitment to recognizing workers’ contributions while directly addressing their social, legal, and economic needs. By bringing essential services closer to the people, the celebration not only honored labor but also strengthened the region’s collective pursuit of inclusive development and lasting peace. As the region continues to advance its labor and livelihood agenda, such initiatives reaffirm the vital role of empowered workers in building a more resilient and self-reliant Bangsamoro. (MOLE-ICD)