SecLab Tolentino: OSH emergency rescue team per region

QUEZON CITY – In response to the recent magnitude 7.8 earthquake that affected parts of Mindanao, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Francis N. Tolentino and Occupational Safety and Health Center (OSHC) Executive Director Engr. Jose Maria S. Batino convened discussions aimed at enhancing the country's occupational safety and health (OSH) preparedness and emergency response capabilities, particularly at the regional level.

During the meeting, Secretary Tolentino emphasized the critical importance of strengthening workplace resilience against natural disasters and ensuring that workers are adequately protected during emergencies. He highlighted the need for proactive measures that will enable government agencies, employers, and workers to effectively respond to disaster situations while minimizing risks to life, health, and property.

Executive Director Batino presented key OSHC initiatives focused on improving practical safety competencies among workers, safety officers, and OSH practitioners. These initiatives include intensified emergency preparedness training, disaster risk reduction and management programs, workplace evacuation planning, and the conduct of regular earthquake and emergency drills across various industries.

Both officials underscored the importance of building a culture of preparedness within workplaces by promoting continuous education, hazard awareness, and compliance with occupational safety and health standards. They also discussed strategies for strengthening coordination among regional offices, local government units, emergency response agencies, and industry stakeholders to ensure a more effective and unified response during disaster events.

Furthermore, the discussion explored opportunities to enhance the capacity of regional OSH networks through specialized training programs, technical assistance, and the deployment of updated emergency response tools and resources. Particular attention was given to high-risk sectors where workers may be exposed to additional hazards during and after major seismic events.

Secretary Tolentino reaffirmed DOLE’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Filipino workers by integrating disaster preparedness and emergency response measures into workplace safety programs. He noted that strengthening regional capabilities is essential in ensuring that workplaces remain safe, resilient, and prepared to respond to emergencies regardless of location.