Davao: Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Francis Tolentino ordered the suspension of work in all DOLE offices in the Davao and Soccsksargen regions following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that jolted Maasim, Sarangani, on Monday morning.

According to Philippines News Agency, the decision to halt operations was made to ensure the safety and well-being of both employees and clients. Secretary Tolentino emphasized that all face-to-face transactions and services in the affected regions will remain suspended until comprehensive building safety and structural assessments are conducted.

Tolentino also reminded private-sector employers and workers that work suspensions may be implemented during natural disasters and similar disruptive events to safeguard employee health and safety, in line with Labor Advisory No. 15, series of 2025. He highlighted that employees engaged in public utilities, health services, vital operations, or those serving as part of a skeleton force must receive full wages and wage-related benefits as stipulated in the Labor Code.

Further, Tolentino encouraged employers to consider providing additional incentives, such as hazard pay, compensatory time off, transportation service, or food allowances, to their employees during these challenging times.

In a labor advisory, the DOLE advised workers to promptly notify their employers of any imminent dangers or safety threats while traveling to or from work due to the disaster. It also stated that workers who report imminent danger or fail or refuse to report for work during such events should not face administrative sanctions.

The public is urged to monitor the official Facebook pages of the DOLE Davao Region and DOLE Soccsksargen for further announcements.