RC San Fernando La Union conducts 16th Regular Meeting with DOLE Regional Director as Guest Speaker

The Rotary Club of San Fernando La Union (RCSFLU) successfully held its 16th Regular Meeting on November 18, 2025, at the Crete Function Hall of Thunderbird Resorts, Poro Point. The gathering featured a timely and insightful discussion from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region 1, with Regional Director Exequiel Ronie A. Guzman serving as the esteemed Guest Speaker.

Unpacking DOLE's Programs for Region 1

Regional Director Guzman engaged the Rotarians with a comprehensive presentation on the various programs and initiatives of the DOLE in Region 1. The discussion provided key updates and detailed the department's strategies aimed at promoting gainful employment, enhancing workers' welfare, and ensuring industrial peace across the Ilocos Region.

The Director’s talk highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts between government agencies and private organizations, such as the Rotary Club, in achieving the region's socio-economic goals.

Topics likely covered included:

• Employment Facilitation Services

• Skills Development and Job Placement Initiatives (like the establishment of Job Placement Offices—JPOs—in partnership with educational institutions, a known DOLE R01 initiative)

• Livelihood Programs for disadvantaged and displaced workers (e.g., TUPAD)

• Workers' Protection and Welfare

• 
  

The presence of Director Guzman at the RCSFLU's regular meeting underscored the Club’s commitment to Vocational Service—one of Rotary’s five Avenues of Service—which encourages members to serve the public through their professions and promote high ethical standards.

The meeting served as an essential platform for Rotarians, who are leaders and professionals in their respective fields, to gain a deeper understanding of the government's labor landscape. This knowledge allows the RCSFLU to identify potential areas for partnership and community projects that can complement the DOLE’s efforts, particularly in job creation, literacy, and community economic development.

The successful meeting concluded with an exchange of tokens of appreciation and a commitment from the RCSFLU to explore avenues for collaboration with DOLE Region 1 in their shared mission of "Service Above Self" and public welfare.

Submitted by: Rtn. Lexus Jed Castañeda, Rotary Club of San Fernando La Union, Rotary International District 3790