The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has issued a reminder to barangay chairpersons and other officials in Sibuyan Island concerning their obligation to register domestic workers, or “kasambahay,” employed within their jurisdictions.
DOLE-Mimaropa Regional Director Naomi Lyn Abellana personally addressed 36 barangay chairpersons from Cajidiocan, Magdiwang, and San Fernando towns, explaining their responsibilities under the “Kasambahay” Law (Republic Act 10361).
Abellana stressed the importance of registering domestic workers to ensure their protection and welfare under government regulations.
She expressed concern over the failure of some officials to gather information on domestic workers, leaving the DOLE unaware of the actual number employed in the region. Abellana cited the proactive approach of San Jose town officials on Carabao Island, who successfully compiled a list of domestic workers employed in households within their jurisdiction.
During the meeting held at the Municipal Hall of Magdiwang, Abellana highlighted that the minimum wage rate for domestic workers in the region is PHP 5,500 per month. However, she noted that recent data from DOLE indicate that many domestic workers in the region receive salaries starting at PHP 6,000 per month or higher.
Also present at the meeting were DOLE Romblon Provincial Director Philip Ruga, DOLE Technical Support and Services Division Chief Marjun Moreno, Magdiwang Mayor Arthur Tansiongco, DILG Local Government Operations Officer II Florid John Gonzales, and Public Employment Service Office (PESO) managers from the three municipalities.
