By Mikee Natinga Norico
Participants of the CPURAFLU-FFW Trainers Training Module (TTM1) gather for a group photo on November 15 at District 21 Hotel after successfully completing Day 1 sessions on safe and respectful workplaces.
The Central Philippine University Rank and File Labor Union – Federation of Free Workers (CPURAFLU-FFW) successfully conducted a two-day Trainers Training Module (TTM1) seminar on November 15–16, 2025, at District 21 Hotel, Atria Park District, Mandurriao, Iloilo City, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing member education, leadership development, and workplace well-being across the university community.
The training brought together union leaders and members for intensive sessions focused on safe and respectful workplaces, employee rights, gender equality, and work-life balance—core components aimed at equipping future facilitators and trainers within CPURAFLU-FFW.
Day 1: Building Safe and Respectful Workplaces
CPURAFLU-FFW members and facilitators pose for a group photo on November 16 at District 21 Hotel following the successful conclusion of Day 2 of the TTM1 seminar focused on work-life balance and employee well-being.
The first day opened with welcome remarks from Mrs. Ma. Victoria G. Bellosillo, CPURAFLU-FFW President, who emphasized the crucial role of TTM1 in developing a strong pool of competent union trainers. She highlighted the importance of understanding laws and conventions that safeguard workers from harassment, discrimination, and violence.
Mr. Eladio Y. Bordon, Jr., Facilitator and CPURAFLU-FFW Assistant Auditor, followed with the Statement of Purpose and Seminar Overview, underscoring the union’s mission to empower members through leadership and facilitation skills anchored in worker rights and decent work principles. He stressed the relevance of RA 11313 (Safe Spaces Act), RA 7877 (Anti-Sexual Harassment Act), and ILO Convention 190 on Violence and Harassment in the World of Work.
The core sessions, facilitated by Ms. Anne Colina, Project Officer and Women Coordinator of the Federation of Free Workers (FFW) in Manila, covered legal frameworks, preventive strategies against workplace harassment and violence, and practical facilitation techniques aligned with TTM1. A seasoned labor educator and gender rights advocate, Colina guided participants through interactive discussions designed to strengthen their capacity as future trainers.
The program concluded with closing remarks from Mr. Eladio Y. Bordon, Jr., who expressed appreciation for the participants’ engagement and reiterated the union’s commitment to fostering a safe and rights-based work environment within CPU.
Day 2: Promoting Work-Life Balance and Wellness
The second day of the training centered on the theme “Work-Life Balance: Enhancing Employees’ Well-being.”
In her welcome remarks, Mrs. Ma. Victoria G. Bellosillo, CPURAFLU-FFW President, highlighted the essential role of wellness and balance in sustaining productivity, morale, and organizational harmony. She reiterated CPURAFLU-FFW’s dedication to empowering members through structured and meaningful labor education.
Ms. Leonance E. Cataluña, CPURAFLU-FFW Treasurer, delivered the Statement of Purpose and Seminar Overview, noting that TTM1 continues to serve as a vital platform for strengthening leadership capabilities amid evolving workplace challenges such as stress, workload management, and employee wellness.
Once again leading the Sessions 1 to 4, Ms. Anne Colina provided insightful, practical discussions on effective communication, time management, facilitation strategies, and the role of trainers in fostering supportive and healthy workplace environments. Her expertise in labor rights, gender equality, and organizational development enriched the training experience for all participants.
The program concluded with closing remarks from Ms. Cataluña, who commended the participants for their active involvement and thanked FFW Manila for its unwavering support. She encouraged members to apply the day’s learnings in their units, particularly in promoting well-being and balanced work practices.
The two-day TTM1 seminar marks a significant milestone for CPURAFLU-FFW as it continues to build a cadre of well-trained, responsive leaders dedicated to promoting workers’ welfare, gender equality, and workplace safety. Through sustained capacity-building initiatives, the union strengthens its role in fostering an empowered, educated, and wellness-oriented workforce within Central Philippine University.