Are there free legal services available from DOLE?

Yes, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in the Philippines provides free legal services to workers and employees who need assistance with employment-related issues. These services are part of the DOLE's mandate to promote the welfare of Filipino workers, both in the country and abroad.

DOLE’s legal services are designed to help workers understand their rights and resolve disputes related to employment. These services include but are not limited to:

Legal Counseling: DOLE offers legal counseling to workers who need advice on issues such as employment contracts, wage disputes, unfair dismissal, and other employment-related matters. Workers can visit DOLE offices for consultations without any charge.
Mediation and Conciliation: If a worker has a dispute with an employer, DOLE provides mediation and conciliation services through its regional offices and attached agencies like the National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB). These services aim to resolve conflicts amicably without the need for expensive and lengthy court proceedings.
Assistance for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs): DOLE, through the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLOs), offers legal assistance to OFWs who face issues such as contract violations, unpaid wages, or mistreatment by employers abroad. These services are provided at no cost to the worker.
Filing of Complaints: DOLE assists workers in filing complaints against employers who violate labor laws. The agency helps workers navigate the process and ensures that their complaints are properly addressed.
Labor Education and Information Dissemination: DOLE conducts seminars and workshops to educate workers about their rights and responsibilities under Philippine labor laws. This preventive approach helps reduce the incidence of labor disputes.

Workers seeking legal assistance from DOLE can visit their nearest DOLE regional office or contact the DOLE hotline for guidance. These services are provided free of charge to ensure that all workers, regardless of their financial capacity, have access to the necessary legal support.