To ensure at all times that workers are informed of their rights, benefits and privileges under the Employees’ Compensation Program (ECP), the ECC-Regional Extension Unit 1 (ECC-REU1) conducted an orientation to the employees of the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Casino Filipino – Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

At least 24 employees from DA Regional Field Office No. 1, 2, 3, and Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) actively participated during the said event held at Metro Vigan Fiesta Hotel Garden, Bantay, Ilocos Sur.

While at the Casino Filipino-Ilocos Norte, at least 15 employees attended the ECP orientation during the on-site seminar held at 365 Plaza, Valdez Center San Nicolas in Ilocos Norte.

“One of the strategic programs of PAGCOR is the conduct of information drives for employees on their entitlement to health benefits available from different government agencies such as Employees’ Compensation Commission”, Officer-in-charge Vidal Cabigon, Jr said.

During the orientation, three components of the EC Program were discussed such as the Prevention, Compensation, and Rehabilitation Services; and the 3E’s – Equalized, Enhanced, Expand strategies, in response to the challenge facing the EC Program.

Regional Officer Dexter Dupagan emphasized the importance of building and sustaining among employees and employers a culture of safety and healthful environment in the workplace.

Work-connected sickness or injuries are covered by the Employees’ Compensation Program. Benefits provided come in the form of income, medical, carer’s allowance, rehabilitation services, as well as death benefits.

EC claims are filed with the SSS for those in the private sector and with the GSIS for those in the public sector.