Quezon City. – The National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) held a dialogue with a group of land-based recruitment agencies on September 30, 2024, at the NLRC Benlor Building, Quezon Avenue, Quezon City. Aiming to address key legal concerns and operational issues, the meeting focused on challenges related to the recruitment and employment of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

Chairperson Grace E. Maniquiz-Tan, who led the discussions, assured participants that the NLRC remains committed to working with all stakeholders to effectively resolve issues related to OFWs . She emphasized the importance of continuous communication and cooperation among the tripartite partners to foster a more inclusive and responsive labor relations system. Additionally, she stressed that the NLRC will continue to strengthen its efforts to safeguard the rights and welfare of both workers and employers within the framework of the law.

The dialogue was attended by representatives from various recruitment agencies as well as NLRC Presiding Commissioners, fostering an open exchange of views on the complexities surrounding the application of conflicts of law in countries where land-based workers are deployed. Among the topics discussed were issues related to freedom of mobility, termination at will, and other employment practices that are prevalent in host countries.

Several pressing matters were addressed during the dialogue, including handling runaway employees, assessing the validity of the Single Entry Approach (SEnA), the settlement process for land-based OFWs, and the legal remedies available to recruitment agencies under Philippine labor laws.

The meeting highlighted the importance of ongoing collaboration between the government and the private sector to ensure the fair treatment of OFWs, streamline legal processes, and address emerging challenges in the recruitment industry.

As part of NLRC's ongoing initiative, the meeting focused on strengthening collaborations with employers and industry groups, aiming to create a balanced and fair environment for both workers and employers in the Philippines.