The National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) has reinforced its commitment to the effective implementation of the Single-Entry Approach (SEnA) Program by mandating the automatic designation of newly appointed and promoted Labor Arbitration Associates (LAAs) as Single-Entry Assistance Desk Officers (SEADOs) nationwide.

In a memorandum dated January 15, 2025, NLRC Chairperson Grace E. Maniquiz-Tan directed this automatic designation to ensure the efficient delivery of labor dispute resolution services under the SEnA Program. The initiative aims to streamline processes and strengthen the Commission’s capacity to address labor disputes promptly.

LAAs play a pivotal role in supporting Labor Arbiters through legal and technical assistance. With their designation as SEADOs, they are tasked with additional responsibilities aligned with the objectives of the SEnA Program, as outlined in the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Administrative Order No. 74, Series of 2024.

Under their new role, LAAs are expected to enhance the SEnA Program’s efficiency and effectiveness through the following responsibilities: (1) provide parties with a clear understanding of the SEnA Program's objectives and procedures; (2) conduct exhaustive fact-finding and validate issues raised by both parties; (3) identify the underlying interests and motives of the disputing parties; (4) help the parties identify and generate alternatives and options for resolution; (5) present proposals, as necessary, and explain their assessment to the parties; (6) ensure the faithful compliance of agreements made between the parties; (7) provide referrals to appropriate offices or agencies when necessary; and, (8)submit all required reports and update the DOLE-Request for Assistance Management System (DOLE-ARMS).

Chairperson Grace E. Maniquiz-Tan emphasized the importance of empowering LAAs to address labor disputes efficiently. She stated that the initiative reflects the NLRC's dedication to providing accessible, cost-effective, and swift dispute resolution through the SEnA Program. She also highlighted that the designation of LAAs as SEADOs enhances the Commission's processes, ensuring the needs of both workers and employers are effectively met.

The SEnA Program, a flagship initiative of the DOLE, provides a simplified, non-litigious, and cost-efficient way to resolve labor issues through conciliation-mediation. It has been instrumental in decongesting labor dockets and fostering industrial peace.

Through this strengthened implementation, the NLRC reaffirms its dedication to improving labor dispute resolution mechanisms and enhancing public trust in the Commission's ability to deliver timely and effective services.