7 South Cotabato workers get P400,000 after labor arbitration

KORONADAL CITY — Seven workers from a food service establishment in South Cotabato received almost P400,000 in unpaid wages and other benefits after the Department of Labor and Employment-12 (DOLE 12) facilitated the settlement of a labor case.

According to the agency, the case stemmed from a labor inspection conducted in March 2026 at the unnamed establishment, which had eight workers.

During the inspection, DOLE 12 found several violations of labor standards, including underpayment of wages, overtime pay, and 13th month pay, as well as nonpayment of premium pay for work rendered during rest days.

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Acting under its inspection and enforcement powers under Article 128 of the Labor Code of the Philippines (Republic Act 11058), and Department Order No. 238, Series of 2023, DOLE 12 initiated proceedings to ensure that the affected workers received their legal monetary benefits.

During a settlement conference led by Jenny Ilomen, Labor and Employment Officer III, the employer voluntarily complied with the issued compliance order and paid the full amount of P399,373.48 to the seven workers.

DOLE 12 said the settlement reflects its continuing efforts to enforce labor laws, promote compliance among employers, and protect workers’ rights in the region./coa