The National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) is the Philippines' quasi-judicial body that hears and decides illegal dismissal, money claims, and other labour disputes — with a 30-calendar-day filing deadline for illegal dismissal.
The National Labor Relations Commission is a quasi-judicial agency attached to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). It hears original cases through Labor Arbiters in its regional branches, and the Commission itself (organised into divisions) hears appeals. The NLRC has jurisdiction over: illegal dismissal complaints, claims for unpaid wages and benefits, unfair labour practice cases, and strikes and lockout disputes. For illegal dismissal, the complaint must be filed within four years from the date of dismissal under the Civil Code's prescriptive period — but in practice, filing promptly (ideally within 30 calendar days) preserves evidence and strengthens the case. The Labor Arbiter issues a decision within 30 calendar days after the case is submitted for resolution. If the NLRC finds illegal dismissal, it can order reinstatement to the former position without loss of seniority and payment of full back wages from the date of dismissal to actual reinstatement. Filing is free at any NLRC regional arbitration branch. Workers may represent themselves (pro se) or engage a lawyer or NLRC-accredited representative. Before reaching the NLRC, many disputes are referred to the DOLE's Single Entry Approach (SEnA) for mandatory 30-day conciliation-mediation.
A Cebu hotel worker is dismissed without notice or reason given. She files an illegal dismissal complaint at the NLRC Regional Arbitration Branch in Cebu. The Labor Arbiter finds illegal dismissal and orders reinstatement plus back wages from the date of dismissal.
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