QUEZON CITY—In a resolute move to foster a more secure and gender-responsive work environment, the National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) conducted two pivotal seminars for its employees on March 25, 2026.

Held in conjunction with the National Women’s Month Celebration (NWMC), the sessions focused on strengthening institutional mechanisms against sexual harassment and promoting the mandates of the Republic Act (R.A.) No. 11313 or the Safe Spaces Act.

NLRC First Division Commissioner and Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI) Chairperson Gina F. Cenit-Escoto provided an in-depth review of the “Code of Conduct and Rules on the Disposition of Sexual Harassment Reports, Complaints, and Cases in the NLRC.” Commissioner Escoto explained the rules and procedures governing the disposition of sexual harassment cases in accordance with R.A. No. 11313 and R.A. No. 7877 or the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995. Commissioner Escoto emphasized that the implementation of the CODI mechanism aims to promote a safe workplace environment and underscored that “the NLRC adopts a zero-tolerance policy against sexual harassment.”

Participants actively engaged in a detailed discussion of the NLRC’s roles, particularly the duties and functions of CODI members, in preventing, deterring, and punishing sexual harassment in the workplace. Highlighting the weight of the role, she urged CODI members to treat their designation "not as a power, but as a responsibility."

Following this, the afternoon session shifted focus to the Safe Spaces Act, also known as the “Bawal Bastos” Law. This session aimed to broaden the employees' understanding of gender-based sexual harassment, not only within the workplace but also in public spaces, online platforms, and educational or training institutions.

Labor Arbiter Leilanie Braza-Oro of the National Capital Region Arbitration Branch (NCRAB) stressed the importance of the Safe Spaces Act as it directly addresses sexual harassment in public spaces and expands the R.A. No. 7877.

Arbiter Braza-Oro highlighted the expanded definitions of prohibited acts and the corresponding penalties, urging personnel to become active allies in maintaining a culture of mutual respect. “Understanding this law is important for all of us. Knowledge of these protections equips us to foster workplaces and communities that are respectful and safe for everyone.”

Labor Arbiter Braza-Oro also provided a brief overview of the salient features of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Safe Spaces Act, which include the implementation of a Zero-Tolerance Policy in establishments to provide precautionary or preventive measures to ensure a safe space for their customers.

Fourth Division Commissioner Mary Ann F. Plata-Daytia and Second Division Presiding Commissioner Julia Cecily C. Sosito also graced the seminars to emphasize the importance of upholding the highest standard of professionalism and integrity as public servants.

Held in line with the 2026 NWMC theme “Lead Like the Babaylans, Filipinas,” these twin seminars aim to empower women to recognize, assert, and protect their rights and sense of safety and equality.

By equipping its workforce with a clear understanding of their rights and responsibilities, the NLRC continues to uphold its commitment to social justice, starting within its own halls.

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