Forty-eight workers retrenched by a company in Sorsogon province have received PHP2.08 million in separation and back pay after the Department of Labor and Employment-Bicol (DOLE-5) intervention through its Single Entry Approach (SEnA) program.

DOLE-5, through its Sorsogon Provincial Office (SPO), facilitated the settlement amounting to PHP2,082,867.67 after the affected workers sought assistance over their retrenchment.

DOLE-5 Regional Director Nepomuceno Leaño II, in a statement on Wednesday, said the SEnA process provided workers and management with an opportunity to resolve the dispute through dialogue.

“The parties engaged in three conferences to discuss the workers’ concerns and work toward a mutually acceptable resolution,” Leaño, a lawyer, said.

The workers, composed of skilled laborers, electricians, masons and other employees, were retrenched as the company moved to prevent further financial losses amid a reduction in its projects.

One of the affected workers initially brought their collective concerns to the DOLE Sorsogon office, prompting SEnA conferences between the workers and company management.

DOLE Sorsogon Provincial Head Mary Jane Rolda said mechanisms such as SEnA are particularly important for workers facing difficult employment transitions.

“Retrenchment is never easy, especially for workers who have invested their skills and livelihoods in their employment. What is important is that both parties are allowed to communicate, understand each other’s circumstances and work toward a fair, mutually acceptable resolution,” she said.

One affected worker, who requested anonymity, said the settlement would help them cope with the loss of employment while searching for new livelihood opportunities.

“We are grateful that we were allowed to raise our concerns and have a proper discussion with the company. The separation and back pay we received are a big help as we look for new jobs,” the worker said.

SEnA is a DOLE mechanism that offers workers and employers a quick, fair, low-cost, and accessible way to resolve labor issues through conciliation.

The settlement helps affected workers get financial aid from their former employer and find new jobs. (PNA)