NEW CHIEF. Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) -Bicol Assistant Regional Director Imelda Romanillos (left) hands over the symbolic key of responsibility to the new DOLE Bicol Regional Director Imelda Gatinao at the agency's regional office on Monday (Sept. 16, 2024). Gatinao hails from Lantawan, Basilan. (Photo courtesy of DOLE-Bicol)
LEGAZPI CITY – The new regional director of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Bicol, Imelda Gatinao, said Wednesday she would continue the programs and legacy established by her predecessors.
"Thank you to the late Regional Director Ma. Zenaida Angara-Campita and those who came before her, as well as Assistant Regional Director Imelda Romanillos, who courageously waged the DOLE-5 banner. To our DOLE members, I'm happy that you're here; this truly shows the warm welcome,” Gatinao said, acknowledging the previous heads for their efforts in strengthening the agency.
Among the notable programs of DOLE that are being effectively implemented in Bicol are the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) program, the Special Program for Employment of Students, the Government Internship Program, the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program and the Labor Inspection Program, among others.
Romanillos formally handed over the symbolic key of responsibility to Gatinao during the turnover ceremony held at the DOLE regional office in this city on Monday.
The event marked the official transition of leadership, in line with DOLE Administrative Order No. 311, signed by Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma on Sept. 11.
"Let us weave a beautiful pattern for DOLE-Bicol. Help us weave the development of our region," she said.
Gatinao, fondly called “Dedeng,” hails from Basilan province, in the Zamboanga Peninsula Region.
Her exemplary leadership paved the way for her promotion to full-fledged Assistant Regional Director in 2021, and by 2024, she assumed position as Director IV. (PNA)
