By Zen Trinidad
CALAMBA CITY, Laguna – Over 260 employees retrenched from First Orient International Ventures Inc. and K3 Global Services Inc., companies operating as Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) at Island Cove in Kawit, Cavite, have received their final, 13th-month, and separation payments.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Cavite Provincial Office facilitated the payout as part of its comprehensive support for workers affected by the closure of the Internet Gaming Licensees.
The companires shut down on Nov. 30.
“We worked closely together with Provincial Director Marivic Martinez to verify the computations of the separation pay and assist workers in claiming their SSS (Social Security System) unemployment benefits,” Ruth Terrible, Senior Labor and Employment Officer of DOLE-Cavite, said in a statement.
“This initiative underscores DOLE’s dedication to prioritizing the welfare of displaced workers and ensuring they receive what is due to them.”
Some workers, especially those with five years of employment, received amounts ranging from PHP170,000 to PHP180,000, while payouts for others varied based on their length of service.
Terrible also shared that six workers who were not able to attend the payout will receive their claims in February next year.
Approximately 400 employees already received their separation pay in an earlier distribution.
In addition to financial claims, DOLE provided support through livelihood programs and issued certifications for SSS unemployment benefits.
“Many who processed their SSS applications early have already received PHP10,000 to PHP15,000 in benefits,” she noted.
Despite the challenges of the company closures, Terrible emphasized the positive reception among the workers.
“While the closure saddened many, they expressed gratitude for the timely settlement of their financial claims and the support extended to them,” she said.
DOLE continues to advocate for displaced workers, encouraging them to participate in job fairs and take advantage of initiatives under its Special Action Plan and Transition Jobs Program, which aims to connect affected workers with new employment opportunities, providing a pathway to recovery and stability. (PNA)
