Financial relief has been secured for Ms. Maricar, a widow of a lineman who died in an occupational accident, as she received a financial settlement of PHP 1,224,985.28 through the help of the Department of Labor and Employment in Sorsogon.
This is following a comprehensive investigation that uncovered violations of occupational safety and health (OSH) standards and general labor standards (GLS) committed by her husband’s employer.
Per the investigation of DOLE labor inspectors, some critical lapses in safety protocols have contributed to the fatal incident. This has prompted the Department’s swift intervention to hold the company accountable and enforce corrective safety measures as part of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s firm commitment to establishing safe and healthy workplaces and protecting the rights and welfare of Filipino workers.
The total amount received by Ms. Maricar, which comprises cash assistance, insurance claims, and separation pay, is in addition to any entitlements she received under the Social Security System’s Employees’ Compensation Commission (SSS-ECC).
“Sobrang pasasalamat ko po sa DOLE sa napakalaking tulong ninyo sa akin upang matanggap ko ang mga benepisyo para sa nasawi kong asawa upang masuportahan at maipagpatuloy ang pag-aaral ng tatlo naming mga anak,” Ms. Maricar said, thanking DOLE Sorsogon for the support extended to her family.
DOLE Bicol Regional Director Imelda F. Gatinao, meanwhile, emphasized that the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the need to uphold labor and safety standards across industries.
“Let this serve as a strong call to all employers: compliance with labor and safety standards is not optional; it is a moral and legal responsibility. We commend our labor inspectors and staff for their diligence and compassion throughout this process,” Regional Director Gatinao said.
DOLE Sorsogon Provincial Head Mary Jane L. Rolda also reiterated the Department’s commitment to ensuring worker protection through labor inspections and OSH enforcement.
More than a financial obligation, DOLE Sorsogon also reaffirmed that ensuring workplace safety and securing just compensation for workers remains central to its mission.
