Manila – The Institute for Labor Studies (ILS) organized a technical learning session focusing on communicable diseases to provide employees a better understanding of transmission and prevention protocols on August 11, 2023, at the ILS Office, Intramuros, Manila.

Communicable diseases are those that can be transmitted from one person to another through various modes, such as direct exposure to infected individuals, indirect contact through air, food, water, vectors, reservoir, and from unseen pathogens on surfaces. The session formed part of employee engagement initiatives organized by the human resources unit for the year.

The Institute invited Ms. Gladys B. Layno, RN, of the Bureau of Working Conditions as a resource speaker. In her presentation, Ms. Layno highlighted prevention mechanisms and treatments available to employees such as the provision of teleconsultation, monitoring, prescription, and fit-to-work clearance issuances from in-house medical personnel of the agency.

In her closing remarks, Deputy Executive Director III Atty. Mary Grace Riguer-Teodosio underscored the need for the Institute’s employees to be aware and informed of communicable diseases, and how these can be transmitted and prevented to avoid stigma and discrimination. She also highlighted the activity as a preliminary initiative to come up with a company policy covering safety and health as a proactive approach to mitigate workplace hazards.