New DOLE chief Tolentino vows to improve workers' dignity under Marcos directive

Acting Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino on Wednesday said President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. instructed him to uphold the dignity of workers, including protecting their rights, benefits, and entitlements under the country’s labor laws.

Tolentino said Marcos stressed the need to ensure the welfare of Filipino workers when he assumed leadership of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

“Ang sinabi ng Pangulo ay taasan ang dignidad ng ating mga manggagawa,” Tolentino told Super Radyo dzBB in an interview.

(The President’s instruction is to uphold the dignity of our workers.)

He added that the directive covers workers’ benefits and protections guaranteed under the Constitution and the Labor Code.

Malacañang on Monday announced that Marcos has appointed the former senator as acting DOLE secretary.

“Tiwala si Pangulong Marcos Jr. na mapamumunuan ni incoming Acting Secretary Tolentino ang DOLE dahil sa kanyang kakayahan at malawak na karanasan sa paghawak ng mahahalagang tungkulin sa pamahalaan, local o national,” Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro said during a press briefing.

(President Marcos Jr. is confident that incoming Acting Secretary Tolentino will lead the DOLE because of his ability and extensive experience in holding important government positions, local or national.)

She said DOLE Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma's health condition prompted the appointment of a new labor secretary. —AOL, GMA News