The Philippine Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is stepping up efforts to strengthen worker protection by expanding access to Employees' Compensation Commission (ECC) benefits, including reviewing the list of compensable illnesses and improving access to financial assistance for workers affected by work-related accidents and diseases.
The initiative aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive to strengthen social protection for Filipino workers, with Labor Secretary Francis N. Tolentino reaffirming the government's commitment to ensuring eligible employees and their families receive timely support.
Speaking during DOLE's flag-raising ceremony on 20 July, ECC Commissioner Atty. Allan S. Montaño called for an expansion of the commission's list of compensable illnesses, arguing that more workers suffering from occupational health conditions should qualify for benefits.
He noted that under the current Employees' Compensation Program (ECP), workers are required to prove that an illness or injury is work-related before they can access compensation, placing the burden of proof on claimants.
Montaño also advocated for faster processing of compensation claims to deliver more efficient, accessible and higher-quality services to affected workers.
Separately, Tolentino highlighted the ECC's role in providing financial assistance to workers and their families following workplace tragedies, citing the recent building collapse in Angeles City, where affected construction workers and the families of those who died received support through the ECC Financial Assistance Program.
"The construction workers affected by the Angeles building collapse, including the families of those who lost their lives, received financial assistance through the ECC. We are preparing to extend similar support to the family of the ride-hailing rider who was recently killed while on duty. The ECC may not always be on the public's radar, but it plays a vital role in protecting our workers," he said.
The labour secretary said the Employees' Compensation Program provides eligible workers and their beneficiaries with medical care, income replacement for temporary or permanent disability, rehabilitation services, death benefits and support for qualified dependants. He added that DOLE will continue working through the ECC to ensure workers and their families are informed about and able to access these benefits when workplace injuries, illnesses or fatalities occur.
Labor Secretary Tolentino also recognised Montaño's advocacy during the event, presenting him with a certificate of appreciation. He likewise honoured outgoing National Conciliation and Mediation Board Executive Director Maria Teresita D. Lacsamana-Cancio for her years of service and commitment to advancing the welfare of Filipino workers.