Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) Secretary Francis N. Tolentino led the sixth regular meeting of the Employees’ Compensation Commission (ECC) on Thursday, where officials discussed expanding the list of compensable work-related illnesses to include specific types of cancer.

As ECC chairperson, Tolentino directed deliberations on policy and operational measures aimed at improving benefits for workers who suffer job-related injuries, illnesses, disability, or death.

During the meeting, the commission evaluated recommendations to broaden coverage for occupational diseases, aligning with international labor standards regarding exposure to hazardous materials like asbestos.

“I join the advocacy to expand the coverage, specifically because there is an ILO Convention, which is ILO Convention No. 162, which has yet to be ratified, or the Asbestos Convention,” Tolentino said, referring to the International Labour Organization’s standards on asbestos safety.

The commission also approved several administrative measures, including revisions to its 2026 Annual Procurement Plan, the hiring of outsourced personnel, and an expanded public information campaign through teleradyo broadcasting.

Additionally, members received updates on the development of the Workers’ Rehabilitation Center Complex, a planned 50-hectare central hub designated for the ECC’s Disability Management and Return-To-Work Assistance Program.

The meeting also addressed mental health initiatives in the workplace, emergency rescue training, and preparations for the 14th Gawad Kaligtasan at Kalusugan awards.

Commission members are scheduled to submit additional strategic roadmaps ahead of their next monthly meeting.

The ECC, an attached agency of the Department of Labor and Employment, administers the government program that provides financial and medical support to private and public sector workers suffering from work-related conditions, as well as death benefits to their dependents.