Beyond Labels: VM Bebot Rodriguez's Proposal for Equal Employment Rights

WHEN the month of May unfolds, Filipinos across the nation honor the contributions of the Filipino workforce to the country's development.

In the spirit of celebration, labor groups and government agencies have organized several activities, including job fairs, to offer opportunities for aspiring applicants.

Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez is one with the nation in honoring laborers – the backbone of our society.

Photo credits: VM Bebot Rodriguez official Facebook page

However, she also recognizes the continuing plight of Filipino workers including the need for a more inclusive workplace; hence her proposal for an ordinance aimed at providing equal employment opportunities to qualified senior citizens, differently abled persons, and persons with disabilities.

Rooted in a belief in the potential and worth of every individual, she passionately advocates for equal employment opportunities. VM Bebot herself, a youthful senior citizen brimming with vitality and commitment to public service, believes that age should never be a barrier to one’s contribution to community development. As long as one possesses the capacity and enthusiasm to work, doors of opportunity would remain open, she said.

Having witnessed the challenges faced by persons with disabilities (PWDs) as a seasoned public servant, VM Bebot has taken proactive steps to address their concerns. From hosting public meetings to consulting with members of the sector, she has worked to understand their needs and advocated for policies that promote their welfare.

At its core, Vice Mayor Bebot's proposed ordinance is a testament to the principles enshrined in national laws, including the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010 and the 1987 Philippine Constitution.

By encouraging businesses to look beyond age and disability when considering job applicants and mandating them to provide full labor and employment protection as may be provided by existing laws, the proposed ordinance seeks to break structural barriers to employment.

It urges to evaluate applicants based on their qualifications and skills rather than immediately limiting senior citizens and PWDs to low-paying jobs or excluding them from the workforce altogether.

In the eyes of VM Bebot, development is defined not only by economic indicators, but also by the inclusiveness of our collective actions – a vision that resonates harmoniously with this year's Labor Day theme, "Sa Bagong Pilipinas: Manggagawang Pilipino, Kabalikat at Kasama sa Pag-asenso."