DOLE inks pact with GAB to provide employment for retired athletes

The main office of the Department of Labor and Employment (Photo from the DOLE)

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Games and Amusements Board (GAB) for the provision of labor and employment assistance for professional and retired athletes.

“Ang ating nilagdaang MOU ang siyang magpapatibay sa ating ugnayan at kolaborasyon upang magbigay ng higit na proteksiyon at seguridad sa paggawa ng mga manggagawa mula sa sports industry,” DOLE Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said.

(The MOU will strengthen our partnership and collaboration to give more protection and labor security for workers in the sports industry.)

The memorandum was signed on December 6.

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According to the memorandum, professional athletes will be provided with emergency employment programs and livelihood opportunities. Meanwhile, athletes who are retired, injured, or undergoing mandatory rest periods will be prioritized.

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Public Employment Services, National Skills Registration Program, and other programs will also be provided to athletes.

GAB chairperson Richard Clarin likewise said that the GAB will ensure the safety and wellbeing of its athletes and will address challenges that may arise.

“The GAB is dedicated to working with DOLE in promoting employment opportunities within the sports and amusement sector, ensuring safety and well-being of all employed professional athletes and stakeholders, and collectively addressing challenges that may arise in our respective jurisdiction,” Clarin said.