Quezon City. – The National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) National Capital Region Arbitration Branch in Quezon City has successfully facilitated the settlement of a claim by an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW). A settlement amounting to US$26,000 representing disability and medical benefits, was received by the complainant, a Fourth Engineer seafarer employed by a shipping/manning company.

Overseen by Labor Arbiter Omar Cris F. Casimiro, whose diligent efforts ensured a fair and timely resolution to the dispute, this case underscores the crucial role of the NLRC in upholding the rights of Filipino workers, both locally and abroad, and in ensuring they receive the benefits and compensation to which they are entitled under the law.

In addition to providing justice to the OFW, the case also serves as a strong reminder to maritime employers of the importance of complying with labor regulations and fulfilling their contractual obligations to employees.

As labor issues continue to arise, the NLRC's handling of this case sets a positive precedent for future disputes, reinforcing the principle that the rights of workers, including OFWs, must be respected and upheld.

Under Section 10 of Republic Act No. 8042, as amended by Republic Act No. 10022, money claims arising out of the employer-employee relationship or by virtue of any law or contract, involving Filipino workers for overseas deployment, including claims for actual, moral, exemplary and other forms of damages, are within the original and exclusive jurisdiction of the Labor Arbiters of the NLRC.