2011NLRCRULESOFPROCEDURE

THE2011NLRCRULESOFPROCEDURE

May31,2011

PublishedinMalayaonJuly22,2011andTheDailyTribuneonJuly23,2011.

THE2011NLRCRULESOFPROCEDURE

Pursuant to the provisions of Article 218 of Presidential Decree No. 442, as amended,otherwise known as the Labor Code of the Philippines, the following Revised Rules ofProceduregoverningarbitrationproceedingsbeforetheLaborArbitersandtheCommissionareherebyadoptedandpromulgated:

RULEITITLEANDCONSTRUCTION

SECTION1.TITLEOFTHERULES.‐TheseRulesshallbeknownasthe“2011NLRCRulesofProcedure.”(1a)SECTION2.CONSTRUCTION.‐TheseRulesshallbe liberallyconstruedtocarry out the objectives of the Constitution, the Labor Code of the Philippines and otherrelevantlegislations,andtoassistthepartiesinobtainingjust,expeditiousandinexpensiveresolutionandsettlementoflabordisputes.

SECTION3.SUPPLETORYAPPLICATIONOFTHERULESOFCOURT. – In theabsenceofanyapplicable provision in these Rules, and in order to effectuate the objectives of the LaborCode,thepertinentprovisionsoftheRulesofCourtofthePhilippinesmay,intheinterestofexpeditious dispensation of labor justice and whenever practicable and convenient, beappliedbyanalogyorinasuppletorycharacterandeffect.

RULEIIDEFINITIONOFTERMS

SECTION1.DEFINITIONS.‐ThetermsandphrasesdefinedinArticle212oftheLaborCode,asamended,shallbegiventhesamemeaningswhenusedherein.Asusedherein,"RegionalArbitration Branch" shall mean any of the regional arbitration branches or sub‐regionalbranchesoftheCommission.

RULEIIIPLEADINGS,NOTICESANDAPPEARANCES

SECTION 1. COMPLAINT. ‐ a) A complaint or petition is a pleading alleging the cause orcauses of action of the complainant or petitioner. The names and addresses of allcomplainantsorpetitionersandrespondentsmustbestatedinthecomplaintorpetition.Itshallbesignedunderoathbythecomplainantorpetitioner,withadeclarationofnon‐forumshopping.

b)Apartyhavingmorethanonecauseofactionagainst theotherparty,arisingoutof thesamerelationship,shallincludealloftheminonecomplaintorpetition.(1a)

SECTION2.CAPTIONANDTITLE.‐InallcasesfiledwiththeCommissionorwithanyofitsRegional Arbitration Branches, the party initiating the action shall be called the"Complainant"or"Petitioner",andtheopposingpartythe"Respondent".Thefullnamesof

alltherealpartiesininterest,whethernaturalorjuridicalpersonsorentitiesauthorizedbylaw, shallbe stated in the captionof the complaintorpetition, aswell as in thedecisions,resolutionsorordersoftheLaborArbiterortheCommission.

SECTION3.FILINGANDSERVICEOFPLEADINGS. ‐Allpleadings inconnectionwitha caseshallbefiledwiththeappropriatedocketingunitoftheRegionalArbitrationBranchortheCommission,asthecasemaybe.

Theparty filingapleadingshall serve theopposingpartieswithacopyand itssupportingdocuments.NopleadingshallbeconsideredwithoutproofofservicetotheopposingpartiesexceptiffiledsimultaneouslyduringaschedulesetbeforetheLaborArbiter.(5a)

SECTION4.SERVICEOFNOTICES,RESOLUTIONS,ORDERSANDDECISIONS.‐a)Noticesandcopiesofresolutionsororders,shallbeservedpersonallyuponthepartiesbythebailifforduly authorized public officer within three (3) days from his/her receipt thereof or byregisteredmailorbyprivatecourier;

b)Incaseofdecisionsandfinalawards,copiesthereofshallbeservedonbothpartiesandtheir counsel or representative by registeredmail or by private courier; Provided that, incaseswhereaparty toacaseorhis/hercounselonrecordpersonallyseeksserviceof thedecision upon inquiry thereon, service to said party shall be deemed effected as hereinprovided.Where parties are numerous, service shall be made on counsel and upon suchnumber of complainants, as may be practicable and shall be considered substantialcompliancewithArticle224(a)oftheLaborCode,asamended.

For purposes of appeal, the period shall be counted from receipt of suchdecisions,resolutions, or orders by the counsel or representative of record.c) The bailiff or officerservingthenotice,order,orresolutionshallsubmithis/herreturnwithintwo(2)daysfromdate of service thereof, stating legibly in his/her return his/her name, the names of thepersonsservedandthedateofreceipt,whichreturnshallbeimmediatelyattachedandshallform part of the records of the case. In case of service by registered mail or by privatecourier,thenameoftheaddresseeandthedateofreceiptofthenotice,orderorresolutionshallbewritteninthereturncardorintheproofofserviceissuedbytheprivatecourier.Ifnoservicewaseffected,thereasonthereofshallbesostated.(6a)

SECTION5.PROOFANDCOMPLETENESSOFSERVICE.‐Thereturnisprimafacieproofofthefacts indicated therein. Service by registeredmail or by private courier is complete uponreceiptbytheaddresseeorhis/heragent. If theaddresseefails toclaimhis/hermail fromthepost officewithin five (5)days from thedateof first noticeof thepostmaster, serviceshalltakeeffectaftersuchtime.(7a)lawcenter.ph

SECTION6.APPEARANCES. ‐a)Alawyerappearingforapartyispresumedtobeproperlyauthorized for that purpose. In every case, he/she shall indicate in his/her pleadings andmotionshis/herAttorney’sRollNumber, aswell as his/herPTRand IBPnumbers for thecurrentyearandMCLEcompliance.

b) A non‐lawyer may appear in any of the proceedings before the Labor Arbiter orCommissiononlyunderthefollowingconditions:

(1) he/she represents himself/herself as party to the case;(2) he/she represents alegitimate labor organization, as defined underArticle 212 and 242 of the Labor Code, asamended,whichisapartytothecase:Provided,thathe/shepresentstotheCommissionorLaborArbiterduringthemandatoryconferenceorinitialhearing:(i)acertificationfromtheBureau of Labor Relations (BLR) or Regional Office of the Department of Labor andEmploymentattestingthattheorganizationhe/sherepresentsisdulyregisteredandlistedin the roster of legitimate labor organizations; (ii) a verified certification issued by thesecretary and attested to by the president of the said organization stating that he/she isauthorized to represent the saidorganization in the said case; and (iii) a copy of theresolutionoftheboardofdirectorsofthesaidorganizationgrantinghimsuchauthority;

(3)he/she represents a member or members of a legitimate labor organization that isexisting within the employer’s establishment, who are parties to the case: Provided, thathe/she presents: (i) a verified certification attesting that he/she is authorized by suchmemberormemberstorepresenttheminthecase;and(ii)averifiedcertificationissuedbythesecretaryandattestedtobythepresidentofthesaidorganizationstatingthatthepersonorpersonshe/sheisrepresentingaremembersoftheirorganizationwhichisexistingintheemployer’sestablishment;

(4)he/sheisaduly‐accreditedmemberofanylegalaidofficerecognizedbytheDepartmentof Justice or IntegratedBar of the Philippines: Provided, that he/she (i) presents proof ofhis/heraccreditation;and(ii)representsapartytothecase;

(5)he/sheistheownerorpresidentofacorporationorestablishmentwhichisapartytothecase:Provided, thathe/shepresents:(i)averifiedcertificationattesting thathe/she isauthorizedtorepresentsaidcorporationorestablishment;and(ii)acopyoftheresolutionoftheboardofdirectorsofsaidcorporation,orothersimilarresolutionorinstrumentissuedbysaidestablishment,grantinghim/hersuchauthority.

c)Appearancesofanon‐lawyer in contraventionof this sectionshallnotbe recognized inanyproceedingsbeforetheLaborArbiterortheCommission.

d) Appearancesmay bemade orally or inwriting. In both cases, the complete name andoffice address of counsel or authorized representative shall be made of record and theadversepartyorhiscounselorauthorizedrepresentativeproperlynotified.

e) In case of change of address, the counsel or representative shall file a notice of suchchange,copyfurnishedtheadversepartyandcounselorrepresentative,ifany.

f) Any change or withdrawal of counsel or authorized representative shall be made inaccordancewiththeRulesofCourt.(8a)

SECTION 7.AUTHORITY TO BIND PARTY.‐ Counsel or other authorizedrepresentatives ofpartiesshallhaveauthoritytobindtheirclientsinallmattersofprocedure;buttheycannot,withoutaspecialpowerofattorneyorexpressconsent,enterintoacompromiseagreementwiththeopposingpartyinfullorpartialdischargeofaclient'sclaim.(9a)

RULE IVVENUE, ASSIGNMENT AND DISPOSITION OF CASESAT THE REGIONALARBITRATIONBRANCH

SECTION1.VENUE. ‐ a)All caseswhichLaborArbitershaveauthority tohearanddecidemaybefiledintheRegionalArbitrationBranchhavingjurisdictionovertheworkplaceofthecomplainantorpetitioner.Forpurposesofvenue,theworkplaceshallbeunderstoodastheplace or localitywhere the employee is regularly assigned at the time the cause of actionarose. It shall include the place where the employee is supposed to report back after atemporarydetail, assignment, or travel. In caseof field employees, aswell as ambulantoritinerantworkers, theirworkplace iswheretheyareregularlyassigned,orwheretheyaresupposedtoregularlyreceivetheirsalariesandwagesorworkinstructionsfrom,andreporttheresultsoftheirassignmentto,theiremployers.

b) Where two (2) or more Regional Arbitration Branches have jurisdiction over theworkplaceofthecomplainantorpetitioner,theBranchthatfirstacquiredjurisdictionoverthecaseshallexcludetheothers.

c)When venue is not objected to before the filling of position papers such issue shall bedeemedwaived.

d)ThevenueofanactionmaybechangedortransferredtoadifferentRegionalArbitrationBranch other thanwhere the complaint was filed bywritten agreement of the parties orwhen the Commission or LaborArbiter beforewhom the case is pending so orders, uponmotionbytheproperpartyinmeritoriouscases.

e) Cases involving overseas Filipinoworkersmay be filed before theRegional ArbitrationBranch having jurisdiction over the place where the complainant resides or where theprincipalofficeofanyoftherespondentsissituated,attheoptionofthecomplainant.

SECTION2.RAFFLEANDASSIGNMENTOFCASES.‐a)AllcomplaintsandpetitionsfiledwiththedocketunitoftheRegionalArbitrationBranchshallbeimmediatelyraffledandassignedtoaLaborArbiterfromreceiptthereof.

b)TheExecutiveLaborArbitershallberesponsiblefortheimmediateraffleandassignmentof all complaints and petitions filed with his/her Regional Arbitration Branch, and theimmediateforwardingofallsubsequentpleadingsandmotions.

c)Allpleadingsandmotionssubsequenttothefilingofthecomplaintshallbeforwardedtothe Labor Arbiter before whom the case is pending within twenty‐four (24) hours fromreceiptthereof.

SECTION3.CONSOLIDATIONOFCASESANDCOMPLAINTS. ‐Where thereare twoormorecasesorcomplaintspendingbeforedifferentLaborArbitersinthesameRegionalArbitrationBranch involving the same employer and commonprincipal causes of action, or the sameparties with different causes of action, the subsequent cases or complaints shall beconsolidatedwith the first toavoidunnecessarycostsordelay.SuchconsolidatedcasesorcomplaintsshallbedisposedofbytheLaborArbitertowhomthefirstcasewasassigned.

Incaseofobjectiontotheconsolidation,thesameshallberesolvedbytheExecutiveLaborArbiter.Anorderresolvingamotionorobjectiontoconsolidationshallbeinappealable.

SECTION4.DISPOSITIONOFCASES.‐SubjecttotheprovisionsofArticle263(g)oftheLaborCode,asamended,whenacaseisassignedtoaLaborArbiter,theentirecaseandanyorallincidentstheretoshallbeconsideredassignedtohim/her;andthesameshallbedisposedofinthesameproceedingstoavoidmultiplicityofsuitsorproceedings.

When the Secretary of Labor and Employment has assumed jurisdiction over a strike orlockout or certified the same to the Commission, the parties to such dispute shallimmediatelyinformtheSecretaryortheCommission,asthecasemaybe,ofallcasesdirectlyrelated to thedisputebetween thempendingbeforeanyRegionalArbitrationBranch, andtheLaborArbitershandlingthesameofsuchassumptionorcertification.TheLaborArbiterconcernedshallforwardwithintwo(2)daysfromnoticetheentirerecordsofthecasetotheCommissionortotheSecretaryofLabor,asthecasemaybe,forproperdisposition.

RULEVPROCEEDINGSBEFORELABORARBITERS

SECTION 1. JURISDICTION OF LABOR ARBITERS. ‐ Labor Arbiters shall have original andexclusivejurisdictiontohearanddecidethefollowingcasesinvolvingallworkers,whetheragriculturalornon‐agricultural:

a)Unfair laborpractice cases;b)Terminationdisputes;c) If accompaniedwith a claim forreinstatement,thosecasesthatworkersmayfileinvolvingwages,ratesofpay,hoursofworkandothertermsandconditionsofemployment;d)Claimsforactual,moral,exemplaryandother forms of damages arising from employer‐employee relations;e) Cases arising fromanyviolationofArticle264oftheLaborCode,asamended,includingquestionsinvolvingthelegalityofstrikesandlockouts;f)Exceptclaimsforemployeescompensationnotincludedinthe nextsucceeding paragraph, social security,medicare, andmaternity benefits, all otherclaimsarisingfromemployer‐employeerelations,includingthoseofpersonsindomesticorhousehold service, involving an amount exceeding Five Thousand Pesos (P5,000.00),whetherornotaccompaniedwithaclaimforreinstatement;g)WagedistortiondisputesinunorganizedestablishmentsnotvoluntarilysettledbythepartiespursuanttoRepublicActNo.6727;h)Enforcementofcompromiseagreementswhenthereisnon‐compliancebyanyof the parties pursuant to Article 227 of the Labor Code, as amended;i) Money claimsarisingoutofemployer‐employeerelationshiporbyvirtueofanylaworcontract,involvingFilipinoworkersforoverseasdeployment,includingclaimsforactual,moral,exemplaryandother formsofdamagesasprovidedbySection10ofRA8042, asamendedbyRA10022;andj) Other cases as may be provided by law.Cases arising from the interpretation orimplementation of collective bargaining agreements and those arising from theinterpretation or enforcement of company personnel policies shall be disposed of by theLaborArbiterbyreferringthesametothegrievancemachineryandvoluntaryarbitration,asmaybeprovidedinsaidagreements.(1a)

SECTION2.NATUREOFPROCEEDINGS.‐TheproceedingsbeforetheLaborArbitershallbenon‐litigiousinnature.Subjecttotherequirementsofdueprocess,thetechnicalitiesoflawandprocedureand therulesobtaining in thecourtsof lawshallnotstrictlyapply thereto.TheLaborArbitermayavailhimself/herselfofallreasonablemeanstoascertainthefactsofthe controversy speedily, including ocular inspection and examination of well‐informedpersons.

SECTION3.ISSUANCEOFSUMMONS. ‐Withintwo(2)daysfromreceiptofacomplaintoramendedcomplaint,theLaborArbitershallissuetherequiredsummons,attachingtheretoacopy of the complaint or amended complaint and its annexes, if any.The summons shallspecifythedate,timeandplaceofthemandatoryconciliationandmediationconferenceintwo(2)settings.(3a,RIII)

SECTION4.SERVICEOFSUMMONS–Summonsshallbeservedpersonallyuponthepartiesbythebailifforadulyauthorizedpublicofficerwithinthree(3)days fromhis/herreceiptthereof,orbyregisteredmail,orbyprivatecourierauthorizedbytheCommission;Providedthat in special circumstances, serviceof summonsmaybe effected in accordancewith thepertinentprovisionsof theRulesofCourt.Thebailifforofficerservingthesummonsshallsubmit his/her returnwithin two (2) days from date of service thereof, stating legibly inhis/herreturnhis/hername,thenamesofthepersonsservedandthedateofreceipt,whichreturnshallbe immediatelyattachedtotherecordsandshallbepart thereof. Ifnoservicewaseffected,thereasonthereofshallbestatedinthereturn.Incaseofservicebyregisteredmail or by private courier, the names of theaddressees and the dates of receipt of thesummonsshallbewritteninthereturncardorintheproofofserviceissuedbytheprivatecourier.Ifnoservicewaseffected,thereasonthereofshallbesostated.(n)

SECTION5.PROHIBITEDPLEADINGSANDMOTIONS.‐ThefollowingpleadingsandmotionsshallnotbeallowedandacteduponnorelevatedtotheCommission:

a) Motion to dismiss the complaint except on the ground of lack of jurisdiction over thesubjectmatter, improper venue, res judicata, prescription and forum shopping;b)Motionfor a bill of particulars;c) Motion for new trial;d) Petition for Relief from Judgmente)Motiontodeclarerespondentindefault;f)MotionforreconsiderationofanydecisionoranyorderoftheLaborArbiter;g)AppealfromanyinterlocutoryorderoftheLaborArbiter,suchasbutnotlimitedto,anorder:

(1)denyingamotion todismiss;(2)denyingamotion to inhibit;(3)denyingamotion forissuanceofwritofexecution;or(4)denyingamotiontoquashwritofexecution.

h)Appeal from the issuance of a certificate of finality of decision by the LaborArbiter;i)Appeal fromorders issuedby theLaborArbiter in the courseof executionproceedings.j)Suchotherpleadings,motionsandpetitionsofsimilarnatureintendedtocircumventaboveprovisions.(5a,RIII)

SECTION6.MOTIONTODISMISS. ‐Before thedate set for themandatoryconciliationandmediation conference, the respondent may file a motion to dismiss on grounds providedunder Section 5, paragraph (a) hereof. Suchmotion shall be immediately resolved by theLabor Arbiter through a written order. An order denying the motion to dismiss, orsuspendingitsresolutionuntilthefinaldeterminationofthecase,isnotappealable.(6a)

SECTION 7. EFFECT OF FAILURE TO FILE. ‐ No motion to dismiss shall beallowed orentertainedafterthelapseoftheperiodprovidedinSection6hereof.(n)

SECTION8.MANDATORYCONCILIATIONANDMEDIATIONCONFERENCE.–

a)Themandatoryconciliationandmediationconferenceshallbecalled for thepurposeof(1) amicably settling the caseupona fair compromise; (2)determining the realparties ininterest;(3)determiningthenecessityofamendingthecomplaintandincludingallcausesofaction; (4)defining and simplifying the issues in the case; (5) entering into admissionsorstipulationsoffacts;and(6)threshingoutallotherpreliminarymatters.TheLaborArbitershallpersonallypresideoverandtakefullcontroloftheproceedingsandmaybeassistedbytheLaborArbitrationAssociateintheconductthereof.

b)ConciliationandmediationeffortsshallbeexertedbytheLaborArbitersall throughoutthemandatoryconferences.Anyagreemententeredintobythepartieswhetherinpartialorfull settlement of the dispute shall be reduced intowriting and signed by the parties andtheir counsel or the parties’ authorized representatives, if any.c) In any case, thecompromise agreement shall be approved by the Labor Arbiter, if after explaining to theparties, particularly to the complainants, the terms, conditions and consequences thereof,he/sheissatisfiedthattheyunderstandtheagreement,thatthesamewasenteredintofreelyandvoluntarilyby them,and that it isnotcontrary to law,morals,andpublicpolicy.d)AcompromiseagreementdulyenteredintoinaccordancewiththisSectionshallbefinalandbindinguponthepartiesandshallhavetheforceandeffectofajudgmentrenderedbytheLabor Arbiter.e) The mandatory conciliation and mediation conference shall, exceptforjustifiablegrounds,beterminatedwithinthirty(30)calendardaysfromthedateof thefirstconference.f)Nomotionforpostponementshallbeentertainedexceptonmeritoriousgroundsandwhenfiledatleastthree(3)daysbeforethescheduledhearing.(3a)

SECTION 9. EFFECT OF FAILURE OF SETTLEMENT. – If the parties fail toagree on anamicable settlement, either in whole or in part, during the mandatory conciliation andmediation conference, the Labor Arbiter shall proceed to the other purposes of the saidconferenceasenumeratedinSection8(a)hereof.(4a)SECTION10.NON­APPEARANCEOFPARTIES.‐Thenon‐appearanceofthecomplainantorpetitionerduringthetwo(2)settingsfor mandatory conciliation and mediation conference scheduled in the summons, despiteduenoticethereof,shallbeagroundforthedismissalofthecasewithoutprejudice.

In case of non‐appearance by the respondent during the first scheduledconference, thesecondconferenceasscheduledinthesummonsshallproceed.Iftherespondentstillfailstoappearat thesecondconferencedespitebeingdulyservedwithsummons,he/sheshallbeconsideredtohavewaivedhis/herrighttofilepositionpaper.

The Labor Arbiter shall immediately terminate themandatory conciliation andmediationconference and direct the complainant or petitioner to file a verified position paper andsubmit evidence in support of his/her causes of action and thereupon render his/herdecisiononthebasisoftheevidenceonrecord.(5a)

SECTION11.SUBMISSIONOFPOSITIONPAPERANDREPLY.‐a)SubjecttoSections9and10ofthisRule,theLaborArbitershalldirectthepartiestosubmitsimultaneouslytheirverifiedpositionpaperswithsupportingdocumentsandaffidavits, ifany,onadatesetbyhim/herwithinten(10)calendardaysfromthedateofterminationofthemandatoryconciliationandmediationconference.

b)Noamendmentof the complaint orpetition shall be allowedafter the filingof positionpapers, unlesswith leave of the LaborArbiter.c) The position papers of the parties shallcoveronlythoseclaimsandcausesofactionstatedinthecomplaintoramendedcomplaint,accompaniedbyallsupportingdocuments,includingtheaffidavitsofwitnesses,whichshalltake the place of their direct testimony, excluding those that may have been amicablysettled.d)Within ten (10)days fromreceiptof thepositionpaperof theadverseparty, areplymaybefiledonadateagreeduponandduringaschedulesetbeforetheLaborArbiter.Thereplyshallnotallegeand/orprovefactsandanycauseorcausesofactionnotreferredto or included in the original or amended complaint or petition or raised in the positionpaper.(7a)

SECTION 12. DETERMINATION OF NECESSITY OF HEARING ORCLARIFICATORYCONFERENCE. ‐ Immediatelyafter thesubmissionby thepartiesof theirpositionpaperorreply,asthecasemaybe,theLaborArbitershall,motuproprio,determinewhetherthereisaneedforahearingorclarificatoryconference.Atthisstage,he/shemay,athis/herdiscretionand for the purpose of making such determination, ask clarificatory questions to furtherelicitfactsorinformation,includingbutnotlimitedtothesubpoenaofrelevantdocumentaryevidence,ifany,fromanypartyorwitness.(8a)

SECTION 13. ROLE OF THE LABOR ARBITER IN HEARING ANDCLARIFICATORYCONFERENCE. ‐ a) The Labor Arbiter shall take full control and personally conduct thehearing or clarificatory conference and may ask questions for the purpose of clarifyingpointsoflaworfactsinvolvedinthecase.TheLaborArbitermayallowthepresentationoftestimonialevidencewith rightof cross‐examinationby theopposingpartyandshall limitthepresentationofevidencetomattersrelevanttotheissuebeforehim/herandnecessaryforajustandspeedydispositionofthecase.lawcenter.ph

b) The Labor Arbiter shall make a written summary of the proceedings, including thesubstanceoftheevidencepresented,inconsultationwiththeparties.Thewrittensummaryshallbesignedbythepartiesandshallformpartoftherecords.(9a)

SECTION 14. NON­APPEARANCE OF PARTIES, AND POSTPONEMENT OFHEARINGS ANDCLARIFICATORYCONFERENCES.

a)ThepartiesandtheircounselsappearingbeforetheLaborArbitershallbepreparedforcontinuous hearing or clarificatory conference. No postponement or continuance shall beallowed by the Labor Arbiter, except upon meritorious grounds and subject to therequirementofexpeditiousdispositionofcases.Thehearingorclarificatoryconferenceshallbe terminated within thirty (30) calendar days from the date of the initial clarificatoryconference.

b) In case of non‐appearance of any of the parties during the hearing orclarificatoryconferencedespiteduenotice,proceedingsshallbeconductedex‐parte.Thereafter,thecaseshallbedeemedsubmittedfordecision.c)Paragraph(a)ofthisSectionnotwithstanding,incases involving overseas Filipino workers, the aggregate period for conducting themandatory conciliation and mediation conference, including hearing on the merits orclarificatoryconference,shallnotexceedsixty(60)days,whichshallbereckonedfromthe

dateofacquisitionof jurisdictionbytheLaborArbiteroverthepersonoftherespondents.(10a)

SECTION15.SUBMISSIONOFTHECASEFORDECISION.‐Uponthesubmissionbythepartiesof theirpositionpapersor replies,or the lapseof theperiod to submit the same, the caseshall be deemed submitted for decision unless the Labor Arbiter calls for a hearing orclarificatoryconferenceinaccordancewithSection12and14(a)ofthisRule,inwhichcase,noticeofhearingorclarificatoryconferenceshallbe immediatelysenttotheparties.Upontermination of the said hearing or conference, thecase is deemed submitted for decision.(11a)

SECTION16.INHIBITION.‐ALaborArbitermayvoluntarilyinhibithimself/herselffromtheresolutionofacaseandshallsostateinwritingthelegaljustificationstherefor.Uponmotionofaparty,eitheronthegroundofrelationshipwithinthefourthcivildegreeofconsanguinityoraffinitywiththeadversepartyorcounsel,oronquestionofpartialityorotherjustifiablegrounds,theLaborArbitermayinhibithimself/herselffromfurtherhearinganddecidingthecase. Suchmotion shall be resolvedwithin five (5) days from the filing thereof. An orderdenyingorgrantingamotionforinhibitionisinappealable.(12a)

SECTION 17. PERIOD TO DECIDE CASE. ‐ The Labor Arbiter shall renderhis/her decisionwithinthirty(30)calendardays,withoutextension,afterthesubmissionofthecasebythepartiesfordecision,evenintheabsenceofstenographicnotes;Providedhowever,thatcasesinvolvingoverseasFilipinoworkersshallbedecidedwithinninety(90)calendardaysafterthefilingofthecomplaint.(13a)

SECTION18.CONTENTSOFDECISIONS.‐ThedecisionsandordersoftheLaborArbitershallbeclearandconciseandshallincludeabriefstatementofthe:a)factsofthecase;b)issuesinvolved;c)applicablelawsorrules;d)conclusionsandthereasonstherefor;ande)specificremedyorreliefgranted.Incasesinvolvingmonetaryawards,thedecisionsorordersoftheLaborArbitershallcontaintheamountawarded.

IncasethedecisionoftheLaborArbiterincludesanorderofreinstatement,itshalllikewisecontain: a) a statement that the reinstatement aspect is immediately executory; and b) adirective for theemployer tosubmita reportof compliancewithin ten (10)calendardaysfromreceiptofthesaiddecision.(14a)

SECTION 19. FINALITY OF THE DECISION OR ORDER AND ISSUANCE OFCERTIFICATE OFFINALITY.

(a) Finality of the Decision or Order of the Labor Arbiter. ‐ If no appeal is filedwith theCommissionwithinthetimeprovidedunderArticle223oftheLaborCode,asamended,andSection1,RuleVIoftheseRules,thedecisionororderoftheLaborArbitershallbecomefinalandexecutoryafterten(10)calendardaysfromreceiptthereofbythecounselorauthorizedrepresentativeor theparties ifnotassistedbycounselorrepresentative.(b)CertificateofFinality.‐Uponexpirationoftheperiodprovidedinparagraph(a)ofthisSection,theLaborArbitershallissueacertificateoffinality.

Intheabsenceofreturncards,certificationsfromthepostofficeorcourierorotherproofsofservice to the parties, the Labor Arbitermay issue a certificate of finality after sixty (60)calendardaysfromdateofmailing.(n)

SECTION20.REVIVALANDRE­OPENINGORRE­FILINGOFDISMISSEDCASEandLIFTINGOFWAIVER.‐Apartymayfileamotiontoreviveorre‐openacasedismissedwithoutprejudice,within ten (10) calendar days from receipt of notice of the order dismissing the same;otherwise, the only remedy shall be to re‐file the case. A party declared to have waivedhis/herrighttofilepositionpapermay,atanytimeafternoticethereofandbeforethecaseissubmittedfordecision,fileamotionunderoathtosetasidetheorderofwaiveruponpropershowingthathis/herfailuretoappearwasduetojustifiableandmeritoriousgrounds.(16a)

RULEVIAPPEALS

SECTION1.PERIODSOFAPPEAL.‐Decisions,awards,orordersoftheLaborArbitershallbefinal and executory unless appealed to the Commission by any or both partieswithin ten(10) calendar days from receipt thereof; and in case of decisions or resolutions of theRegionalDirectorof theDepartmentofLaborandEmploymentpursuant toArticle129oftheLaborCode,withinfive(5)calendardaysfromreceiptthereof.Ifthe10thor5thday,asthe casemaybe, falls on a Saturday, Sundayorholiday, the last day toperfect the appealshallbethefirstworkingdayfollowingsuchSaturday,Sundayorholiday.

Nomotionorrequestforextensionoftheperiodwithinwhichtoperfectanappealshallbeallowed.(1a)

SECTION 2. GROUNDS. ‐ The appeal may be entertained only on any of thefollowinggrounds:

a)IfthereisprimafacieevidenceofabuseofdiscretiononthepartoftheLaborArbiterorRegional Director;b) If the decision, award or order was secured through fraud orcoercion,includinggraftandcorruption;c)Ifmadepurelyonquestionsoflaw;and/ord)Ifseriouserrorsinthefindingsoffactsareraisedwhich,ifnotcorrected,wouldcausegraveorirreparabledamageorinjurytotheappellant.(2a)

SECTION3.WHEREFILED.‐TheappealshallbefiledwiththeRegionalArbitrationBranchorRegionalOfficewherethecasewasheardanddecided.

SECTION4.REQUISITESFORPERFECTIONOFAPPEAL.‐a)Theappealshallbe:

(1) filedwithin thereglementaryperiodprovided inSection1of thisRule;(2)verifiedbytheappellanthimself/herself inaccordancewithSection4,Rule7of theRulesofCourt,asamended;(3)intheformofamemorandumofappealwhichshallstatethegroundsrelieduponandtheargumentsinsupportthereof,thereliefprayedfor,andwithastatementofthedate theappellant received theappealeddecision,awardororder;(4) in three (3) legiblytypewrittenorprintedcopies;and(5)accompaniedby:

i)proofofpaymentoftherequiredappealfeeandlegalresearchfee;ii)postingofacashorsuretybondasprovided inSection6of thisRule; andiii)proofof serviceupon theotherparties.

b)Amerenoticeofappealwithoutcomplyingwiththeotherrequisitesaforestatedshallnotstoptherunningoftheperiodforperfectinganappeal.

c)TheappelleemayfilewiththeRegionalArbitrationBranchorRegionalOfficewheretheappealwas filed, his/her answeror reply to appellant'smemorandumof appeal, not laterthanten(10)calendardaysfromreceiptthereof.Failureonthepartoftheappelleewhowasproperlyfurnishedwithacopyoftheappealtofilehis/heranswerorreplywithinthesaidperiod may be construed as a waiver on his/her part to file the same.d) Subject to theprovisionsofArticle218oftheLaborCode,oncetheappealisperfectedinaccordancewiththese Rules, the Commission shall limit itself to reviewing and deciding only the specificissuesthatwereelevatedonappeal.(4a)

SECTION 5. APPEAL FEE. ‐ The appellant shall pay the prevailing appeal feeand legalresearchfeetotheRegionalArbitrationBranchorRegionalOfficeoforigin,andtheofficialreceiptofsuchpaymentshallformpartoftherecordsofthecase.(5a)

SECTION 6. BOND. ‐ In case the decision of the Labor Arbiter or the Regional Directorinvolves a monetary award, an appeal by the employer may be perfected only upon thepostingofabond,whichshalleitherbeintheformofcashdepositorsuretybondequivalentinamounttothemonetaryaward,exclusiveofdamagesandattorney’sfees.

In case of surety bond, the same shall be issued by a reputable bondingcompany dulyaccreditedbytheCommissionortheSupremeCourt,andshallbeaccompaniedbyoriginalorcertifiedtruecopiesofthefollowing:

a) a joint declaration under oath by the employer, his/her counsel, and the bondingcompany, attesting that the bond posted is genuine, and shall be in effect until finaldisposition of the case.b) an indemnity agreement between the employer‐appellant andbondingcompany; c) proof of security deposit or collateral securing the bond: provided,thatacheckshallnotbeconsideredasanacceptablesecurity;

d) a certificate of authority from the Insurance Commission;e) certificate of registrationfromtheSecuritiesandExchangeCommission;f) certificateofaccreditationandauthorityfrom theSupremeCourt; andg)notarizedboard resolutionor secretary’s certificate fromthebondingcompanyshowingitsauthorizedsignatoriesandtheirspecimensignatures.TheCommissionthroughtheChairmanmayonjustifiablegroundsblacklistabondingcompany,notwithstandingitsaccreditationbytheSupremeCourt.Acashorsuretybondshallbevalidandeffectivefromthedateofdepositorposting,untilthecaseisfinallydecided,resolvedorterminated,ortheawardsatisfied.Thisconditionshallbedeemedincorporatedinthetermsandconditionsof thesuretybond,andshallbebindingon theappellantsandthebondingcompany.

The appellant shall furnish the appelleewith a certified true copyof the said suretybondwithalltheabove‐mentionedsupportingdocuments.TheappelleeshallverifytheregularityandgenuinenessthereofandimmediatelyreportanyirregularitytotheCommission.

Upon verification by the Commission that the bond is irregular or not genuine, theCommissionshallcausetheimmediatedismissaloftheappeal,andcensuretheresponsible

parties and their counsels, or subject them to reasonable fineorpenalty, and thebondingcompany may be blacklisted. No motion to reduce bond shall be entertained except onmeritoriousgrounds,andonlyuponthepostingofabondinareasonableamountinrelationtothemonetaryaward.

Themere filing of amotion to reduce bondwithout complyingwith the requisites in theprecedingparagraphsshallnotstoptherunningoftheperiodtoperfectanappeal.(6a)

SECTION 7. RECORDS OF CASE ON APPEAL. ‐ The records of a case shallhave acorrespondingindexofitscontentswhichshallincludethefollowing:a)theoriginalcopyofthe complaint; b) other pleadings and motions; c) minutes of the proceedings, notices,transcripts of stenographic notes, if any; d) decisions, orders, and resolutions as well asproof of service thereof, if available; e) the computation of the award; f)memorandumofappealand the replyoranswer thereto, if any,andproofof service, if available;g)officialreceiptoftheappealfee;andh)theappealbond,ifany.Therecordsshallbechronologicallyarrangedandpagedprominently.

SECTION8.TRANSMITTALOFRECORDSOFCASEONAPPEAL.‐Withinforty‐eight(48)hoursafter the filing of the appeal, the records of the case shall be transmitted by the RegionalArbitrationBranchorofficeoforigintotheCommission.

SECTION 9. FILING OF APPEAL; EFFECT. ‐ Without prejudice to immediatereinstatementpendingappealunderSection6ofRuleXI,onceanappeal is filed, theLaborArbiter losesjurisdictionover the case.All pleadings andmotionspertaining to the appealed case shallthereafterbeaddressedtoandfiledwiththeCommission.(9a)

SECTION10.FRIVOLOUSORDILATORYAPPEALS. ‐No appeal fromaninterlocutoryordershallbeentertained.Todiscouragefrivolousordilatoryappeals,includingthosetakenfrominterlocutory orders, the Commission after hearing may censure or cite in contempt theerringpartiesandtheircounsels,orsubjectthemtoreasonablefineorpenalty.(10a)

SECTION11.APPEALSFROMDECISIONOFOTHERAGENCIES. ‐TheRulesprovidedhereingoverningappeals fromthedecisionsorordersofLaborArbitersshallapply toappeals totheCommissionfromdecisionsorordersoftheotherofficesoragenciesappealabletotheCommissionaccordingtolaw.

RULEVIIPROCEEDINGSBEFORETHECOMMISSION

SECTION1.JURISDICTIONOFTHECOMMISSION.‐TheCommissionshallexerciseexclusive,original,andappellatejurisdictioninaccordancewithlaw.

SECTION2.COMPOSITIONANDINTERNALFUNCTIONSOFTHECOMMISSIONENBANCANDITSDIVISIONS. ‐a)Composition.‐Unlessotherwiseprovidedbylaw,theCommissionshallbecomposedoftheChairmanandoftwentythree(23)Commissioners.

b) Commission En Banc. –The Commission shall sit en banc only for purposes ofpromulgatingrulesandregulationsgoverningthehearinganddispositionofcasesbeforeitsDivisionsandRegionalArbitrationBranches,andfortheformulationofpoliciesaffectingitsadministrationandoperations.Itmay,ontemporaryoremergencybasis,allowcaseswithin

the jurisdictionofanyDivisiontobeheardbyanyotherDivisionwhosedocketallowstheadditionalworkload and such transferwill not expose litigants to unnecessary additionalexpense.c)Divisions.‐Unlessotherwiseprovidedbylaw,theCommissionshallexerciseitsadjudicatoryandallotherpowers,functionsanddutiesthroughitseight(8)Divisions.EachDivisionshallconsistofonememberfromthepublicsectorwhoshallactasthePresidingCommissioner and one member each from the workers and employers sectors,respectively.Of the eight (8) Divisions, the First, Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth and SixthDivisions shall have exclusive territorial jurisdiction over appealed cases coming fromLuzon; the Seventh Division, appealed cases from the Visayas Region; and the EighthDivision, appealed cases fromMindanao including those from theAutonomousRegion forMuslim Mindanao.d) Headquarters. ‐ As provided by law, the Commission and its First,Second,Third,Fourth,FifthandSixthDivisionsforLuzonshallhavetheirmainofficesintheNationalCapitalRegion,andtheSeventhandEighthDivisionsforVisayasandMindanao,inthecitiesofCebuandCagayandeOro,respectively.(2a)

SECTION 3. THE CHAIRMAN. ‐ The Chairman shall preside over all sessions of theCommissionenbanc.He/sheisthePresidingCommissioneroftheFirstDivision.Incaseofthe effective absence or incapacity of the Chairman, the Presiding Commissioner of theSecondDivisionshallbetheActingChairman.

The Chairman, aided by the Executive Clerk of the Commission, shall haveadministrativesupervisionovertheCommissionanditsRegionalArbitrationBranchesandallitspersonnelincludingtheExecutiveLaborArbitersandLaborArbiters.

SECTION4.COMMISSIONENBANCSESSION,QUORUMANDVOTE.‐a)CommissionEnBanc.‐The Chairman shall call the Commission to an en banc session at least twice a year,preferablyonthefirstweekofJuneandthefirstweekofDecember,todeliberateanddecideonanymatterbeforeit.However,amajorityofallthemembersoftheCommissionmaycallaspecial en banc session to discuss and decide on urgent and vital matters which needimmediateaction.

b) Quorum. ‐ The presence of amajority of all themembers of the Commission shall benecessarytoconstituteaquorum.Thevoteorconcurrenceofthemajorityofthemembersconstituting a quorum shall be the decision or resolution of the Commission en banc.c)Division. ‐ Thepresenceof at least two (2)Commissioners of aDivision shall constitute aquorum.Theconcurrenceoftwo(2)CommissionersofaDivisionshallbenecessaryforthepronouncementofajudgmentorresolution.

WhenevertherequiredmembershipinaDivisionisnotcompleteand/ortheconcurrenceoftwo (2) Commissioners cannot be obtained to arrive at a judgment or resolution, theChairmanshalldesignatesuchnumberofadditionalCommissionersbelongingtothesamesectorfromtheotherDivisionsasmaybenecessary.Intheeventthatallthemembersofadivisioninhibitthemselvesfromresolvingacase,theChairmanmaycreateaSpecialDivisionorassign thecase toanyof theotherDivisions.d)RoleofChairman in theDivision. ‐TheChairmanof theCommissionmayconveneandpresideover thesessionofanyDivision toconsider any case pending before it and participate in its deliberations, if in his/herjudgment,his/herpresencethereinwillbestservetheinterestsoflaborjustice.He/sheshallnot however, participate in the voting by the Division, except when he/she is acting as

Presiding Commissioner of the Division in the absence of the regular PresidingCommissioner.(4a)

SECTION5.CONSULTATION.‐TheconclusionsofaDivisiononanycaseormattersubmittedtoitfordecisionshallbereachedinconsultationbeforethecaseisassignedtoamemberforthewritingoftheopinion.ItshallbemandatoryfortheDivisiontomeetforthepurposeoftheconsultationordainedherein.

A certification to this effect signedby thePresidingCommissionerof theDivision shall beissuedandacopythereofattachedtotherecordofthecaseandservedupontheparties.

SECTION 6. DISSENTING OPINION. ‐ Should any member of a Divisionindicate his/herintention to write a dissenting opinion, he/she may file the same within the periodprescribedfordecidingorresolvingtheappeal;otherwise,suchwrittendissentingopinionshallnotbeconsideredpartoftherecordsofthecase.

SECTION7.INHIBITION. ‐Nomotionto inhibittheentireDivisionoftheCommissionshallbe entertained. However, any Commissioner may inhibithimself/herself from theconsiderationandresolutionofanycaseormatterbeforetheDivisionandshallsostateinwriting the legal or justifiable grounds therefor. In the event that a member inhibitshimself/herself,thecaseshallberaffledbytheExecutiveClerkorDeputyExecutiveClerktoeitherofthetwo(2)remainingCommissioners.Incasetwo(2)CommissionersinaDivisioninhibit themselves in a case ormatter before it, the Chairman shall, as far as practicable,appoint two (2) Commissioners from other Divisions representing the sector of theCommissionerswhoinhibitedthemselves.

SECTION8.ABSTENTION. ‐ In the event of an abstention, and the concurrenceof two (2)Commissioners to arrive at a judgment or resolution cannot be obtained, Section 4 (c),secondparagraph,ofthisRuleshallapply.

SECTION9.CONSOLIDATIONOFCASES.‐Appealedandinjunctioncasesinvolvingthesameparties, issues, or related questions of fact or law shall be consolidated before theCommissioner to whom the case with the lowest case number is assigned. Notice of theconsolidationshallbegivenby theExecutiveClerkorDeputyExecutiveClerk to theothermembersoftheconcernedDivisions.

SECTION 10. TECHNICAL RULES NOT BINDING. ‐ The rules of procedure and evidenceprevailingincourtsoflawandequityshallnotbecontrollingandtheCommissionshalluseeveryandallreasonablemeanstoascertainthefactsineachcasespeedilyandobjectively,withoutregardtotechnicalitiesoflaworprocedure,allintheinterestofdueprocess.

InanyproceedingbeforetheCommission,thepartiesmayberepresentedbylegalcounselbut it shall be thedutyof theChairman, anyPresidingCommissionerorCommissioner toexercisecompletecontroloftheproceedingsatallstages.

SECTION11.CONCILIATIONANDMEDIATION.‐Intheexerciseofitsexclusive,originalandappellatejurisdiction,theCommissionmayexertalleffortstowardstheamicablesettlementofalabordispute.

The settlement of cases on appeal, to be valid and binding between the parties, shall beapprovedbytheCommission.(11a)

SECTION 12. ROLE OF THE LABOR ARBITER ASSIGNED TO THECOMMISSION. ‐ In theresolutionofcasesonappeal,andthosementionedinRulesVIIIandX,theCommission, inthe exigency of the service, shall be assisted by a Labor Arbiter whomay be directed tostudy,review,hearandreceiveevidence,andsubmitreportsthereon.(12a)

SECTION13.FORMOFDECISION,RESOLUTIONANDORDER. ‐Thedecision,resolutionandorder of theCommission shall state clearly anddistinctly the findings of facts, issues, andconclusions of law on which it is based, and the relief granted, if any. If the decision,resolutionororder involvesmonetary awards, the same shall contain the specific amountawardedasofthedatethedecisionisrendered.

SECTION14.FINALITYOFDECISIONOFTHECOMMISSIONANDENTRYOFJUDGMENT. ‐a)Finalityof theDecisions,ResolutionsorOrdersof theCommission. ‐Exceptasprovided inSection9ofRuleX,thedecisions,resolutionsorordersoftheCommissionshallbecomefinalandexecutoryafterten(10)calendardaysfromreceiptthereofbythecounselorauthorizedrepresentativeorthepartiesifnotassistedbycounselorrepresentative.

b)EntryofJudgment.‐Upontheexpirationoftheten(10)calendardayperiodprovidedinparagraph(a)ofthisSection,thedecision,resolution,orordershallbeenteredinabookofentriesofjudgment.

In the absence of return cards, certifications from the post office or the courier or otherproofsofservicetotheparties,theExecutiveClerkorDeputyExecutiveClerkshallconsiderthedecision,resolutionororderas finalandexecutoryaftersixty(60)calendardays fromdateofmailing.(14a)

SECTION 15. MOTIONS FOR RECONSIDERATION. ‐ Motion forreconsideration of anydecision,resolutionororderoftheCommissionshallnotbeentertainedexceptwhenbasedonpalpableorpatenterrors;providedthatthemotionisfiledwithinten(10)calendardaysfromreceiptofdecision, resolutionororder,withproofofservice thatacopyof thesamehasbeenfurnished,withinthereglementaryperiod,theadverseparty;andprovidedfurther,thatonlyonesuchmotionfromthesamepartyshallbeentertained.(15a)

RULEVIIICERTIFIEDCASES

SECTION 1. POLICY. ‐ It is the declared policy of certification of labor disputes forcompulsoryarbitrationtoensureandmaintainindustrialpeacebasedonsocial justiceandnationalinterestbyhavingafull,completeandimmediatesettlementoradjudicationofalllabordisputesbetweentheparties,aswellasissuesthatarerelevanttoorincidentsofthecertifiedissues.

SECTION2.CERTIFIEDLABORDISPUTES.‐CertifiedlabordisputesarecasescertifiedtotheCommissionforcompulsoryarbitrationunderArticle263(g)oftheLaborCode.

SECTION3.EFFECTSOFCERTIFICATION.‐a)Uponcertification,theintendedorimpendingstrike or lockout is automatically enjoined, notwithstanding the filing of any motion for

reconsiderationof thecertificationordernorthenon‐resolutionofanysuchmotionwhichmayhavebeendulysubmittedtotheOfficeoftheSecretaryofLaborandEmployment.Ifaworkstoppagehasalreadytakenplaceatthetimeofthecertification,allstrikingorlockedoutemployeesshallimmediatelyreturntoworkandtheemployershallimmediatelyresumeoperationsandreadmitallworkersunderthesametermsandconditionsprevailingbeforethestrikeorlockout.

b) All cases between the same parties, except where the certification order specifiesotherwise the issuessubmitted forarbitrationwhicharealready filedormaybe filed,andarerelevanttoorareproperincidentsofthecertifiedcase,shallbeconsideredsubsumedorabsorbed by the certified case, and shall be decided by the appropriate Division of theCommission.Subject to the second paragraph of Section 4 of Rule IV, the parties to acertified case, under pain of contempt, shall inform their counsels and the Divisionconcerned of all cases pendingwith the Regional Arbitration Branches and the VoluntaryArbitratorsrelativeorincidenttothecertifiedcasebeforeit.c)Wheneveracertifiedlabordispute involvesabusinessentitywithseveralworkplaces located indifferentregions, theDivisionhavingterritorialjurisdictionovertheprincipalofficeofthecompanyshallacquirejurisdictiontodecidesuchlabordispute;unlessthecertificationorderprovidesotherwise.

SECTION 4. EFFECTS OF DEFIANCE. ‐ Non‐compliance with the certificationorder of theSecretaryofLaborandEmployment shallbe consideredasan illegal act committed in thecourse of the strike or lockout, and shall authorize the Commission to enforce the sameunder pain of immediate disciplinary action, including dismissal or loss of employmentstatus or payment by the locking‐out employer of backwages, damages and/or otheraffirmativerelief,evencriminalprosecutionagainsttheliableparties.

The Commission may also seek the assistance of law enforcement agencies to ensurecomplianceandenforcementofitsordersandresolutions.

SECTION 5. PROCEDURE IN CERTIFIED CASES. ‐ a) When there is no needto conduct aclarificatory hearing, the Commission shall resolve all certified cases within thirty (30)calendar days from receipt by the assigned Commissioner of the complete records,whichshall includethepositionpapersofthepartiesandtheorderoftheSecretaryofLaborandEmploymentdenyingthemotionforreconsiderationofthecertificationorder,ifany.

b)Where a clarificatory hearing is needed, the Commission shall,within five (5) calendardaysfromreceiptoftherecords,issueanoticetobeservedonthepartiesthroughthefastestmeans available, requiring them to appear and submit additional evidence, if any. Allcertified cases shall be resolved by the Commissionwithin sixty (60) calendar days fromreceiptofthecompleterecordsbytheassignedCommissioner.

c) No motion for extension or postponement shall be entertained. (5a)SECTION 6.EXECUTIONOF JUDGMENT INCERTIFIEDCASE. ‐Uponissuanceof theentryof judgment,theCommission,motupropriooruponmotionbytheproperparty,maycausetheexecutionofthejudgmentinthecertifiedcase.lawcenter.ph

RULEIXCONTEMPT

SECTION1.DIRECTCONTEMPT.‐TheChairmanoranyCommissionerorLaborArbitermaysummarilyadjudgeguiltyofdirectcontemptanypersoncommittinganyactofmisbehaviorin the presence of or so near the Chairman or any Commissioner or Labor Arbiter as toobstruct or interrupt the proceedings before the same, including disrespect toward saidofficials,offensiveactstowardothers,orrefusaltobeswornortoanswerasawitnessortosubscribe to an affidavit or deposition when lawfully required to do so. If the offense iscommittedagainsttheCommissionoranymemberthereof,thesameshallbepunishedbyafine not exceeding Five HundredPesos (P500.00) or imprisonment not exceeding five (5)days,orboth;and, if theoffenseiscommittedagainstanyLaborArbiter, thesameshallbepunished by a fine not exceeding One Hundred Pesos (P100.00) or imprisonment notexceedingone(1)day,orboth.

Anypersonadjudgedguiltyofdirect contemptbyaLaborArbitermay,withinaperiodoffive(5)calendardaysfromnoticeofthejudgment,appealthesametotheCommissionandtheexecutionofsaidjudgmentshallbesuspendedpendingresolutionoftheappealuponthefilingbysaidpersonofabondonconditionthathewillabidebyandperformthejudgmentshould the appeal be decided against him/her. A judgment of the Commission on directcontemptshallbeimmediatelyexecutoryandinappealable.

SECTION 2. INDIRECT CONTEMPT. – The Commission or any Labor Arbiterpursuant toArticle218(d)oftheLaborCodemayciteanypersonforindirectcontemptandimposetheappropriatepenaltyunderanyofthefollowinggrounds:

a)Misbehaviorofanyofficeroremployeeintheperformanceofhis/herofficialdutiesorinhis/her official transaction;b) Disobedience of, or resistance to, a lawful writ, order ordecision;c)Anyabuseof, or anyunlawful interferencewith theprocessesorproceedingsnotconstitutingdirectcontempt;d)Anyimproperconducttending,directlyorindirectly,toimpede,obstructordegradetheadministrationofjustice;e)Assumingtobeanattorneyorarepresentativeofpartywithoutauthority;f)Failuretoobeyasubpoenadulyserved;org)Othergroundsanalogoustotheforegoing.A.Wherechargetobefiled.‐Wherethechargeforindirect contempt has been committed against the Commission or against an Officerappointed by it, the chargemay be filedwith the Commission.Where such contempt hasbeen committed against the Labor Arbiter, the charge may be filed with the RegionalArbitrationBranchsubjecttoappealtotheCommissioninthesamemannerasprovidedinSection1ofthisRule.B.Howproceedingscommenced.‐ProceedingsforindirectcontemptmaybeinitiatedmotupropriobytheCommissionoranyLaborArbiterbyanorderoranyother formal chargerequiring the respondent to show cause why he/she should not bepunished for contempt.In all other cases, a charge for indirect contempt shall becommencedby a verified petitionwith supporting particulars and certified true copies ofdocumentsorpapersinvolvedtherein,anduponfullcompliancewiththerequirementsforfilinginitiatorypleadingsintheCommission.IfthecontemptchargearoseoutoforisrelatedtoaprincipalactionpendingintheCommissionorRegionalArbitrationBranch,thepetitionforcontemptshallallegethatfactbutsaidpetitionshallbeconsolidated,heard,anddecidedseparately, unless the Commission or Labor Arbiter in its/his/her discretion, orders theconsolidation of the contempt charge and the principal action for joint hearing anddecision.C.Hearing.‐Uponthedatesetforhearing,theCommissionorLaborArbitershallproceedtoinvestigatethechargeandconsidersuchcomment,answer,defenseortestimony

astherespondentmaymakeoroffer.Failuretoattendthescheduledhearingandtogiveasatisfactory explanation in writing to the Commission or Labor Arbiter will result in thewaiver of the respondent to be present during the hearing.D. Punishment for indirectcontempt.‐Iftherespondentisadjudgedguiltyof indirectcontemptcommittedagainsttheCommission or anymember thereof, he/shemay be punished by a fine of One Thousand(P1,000.00)Pesosperdayforeveryactofindirectcontempt;and,iftheoffenseiscommittedagainstanyLaborArbiter, thesamemaybepunishedbya fineofFiveHundred(P500.00)Pesosperdayforeveryactofindirectcontempt.Eachdayofdefianceof,ordisobedienceto,or non‐enforcement of a final order, resolution, decision, ruling, injunction, or processes,shall constitute an indirect contempt of the Commission. If the contempt consists of theviolation of an injunction or omission to do an act which is within the power of therespondent toperform, the respondent shall, in addition, bemade liable fordamages as aconsequence thereof. The damages shall be measured by the extent of the loss or injurysustainedbytheaggrievedpartybyreasonoftheactsoromissionsofwhichthecontemptisbeing prosecuted, and the costs of the proceedings, including payment of interest ondamages.E.Awrit of executionmaybe issued to enforce thedecision imposing such fineand/orconsequentdamagesaspunishmentforindirectcontempt.(2a)

RULEXINJUNCTION

SECTION 1. INJUNCTION IN ORDINARY LABOR DISPUTES. ‐ A preliminaryinjunction orrestrainingordermaybegrantedbytheCommissionthroughitsDivisionspursuanttotheprovisions of paragraph (e) of Article 218 of the Labor Code, as amended, when it isestablishedonthebasisoftheswornallegationsinthepetitionthattheactscomplainedofinvolvingorarisingfromanylabordisputebeforetheCommission,which,ifnotrestrainedor performed forthwith, may cause grave or irreparable damage to any party or renderineffectualanydecision in favorof suchparty.Acertificationofnon‐forumshoppingshallaccompanythepetitionforinjunction.

The writ of preliminary injunction or temporary restraining order shall become effectiveonly upon posting of the required cash bond in the amount to be determined by theCommission to answer for anydamage thatmaybe sufferedby theparty enjoined, if it isfinallydeterminedthatthepetitionerisnotentitledthereto.

SECTION2.INJUNCTIONINSTRIKESORLOCKOUTS.‐ApreliminaryorpermanentinjunctionmaybegrantedbytheCommissiononlyafterhearingthetestimonyofwitnessesandwithopportunityforcross‐examinationinsupportoftheallegationsofthecomplaintorpetitionmadeunder oath, and testimonybywayof opposition thereto, if offered, andonly after afindingoffactbytheCommission:

a)Thatprohibitedorunlawfulactshavebeenthreatenedandwillbecommittedandwillbecontinuedunlessrestrained,butnoinjunctionortemporaryrestrainingordershallbeissuedonaccountofanythreat,prohibitedorunlawfulact,exceptagainst thepersonorpersons,associationororganizationmakingthethreatorcommittingtheprohibitedorunlawfulactor actually authorizing or ratifying the same after actual knowledge thereof.b) Thatsubstantial and irreparable injury to petitioner's property will follow;c) That as to eachitemofrelieftobegranted,greaterinjurywillbeinflicteduponthepetitionerbythedenialofreliefthanwillbeinflicteduponrespondentsbythegrantingofrelief;d)Thatpetitioner

has no adequate remedy at law; ande) That the public officers chargedwith the duty toprotectpetitioner'spropertyareunableorunwillingtofurnishadequateprotection.

RULEXINJUNCTION

SECTION 1. INJUNCTION IN ORDINARY LABOR DISPUTES. ‐ A preliminary injunction orrestrainingordermaybegrantedbytheCommissionthroughitsDivisionspursuanttotheprovisions of paragraph (e) of Article 218 of the Labor Code, as amended, when it isestablishedonthebasisoftheswornallegationsinthepetitionthattheactscomplainedofinvolvingorarisingfromanylabordisputebeforetheCommission,which,ifnotrestrainedor performed forthwith, may cause grave or irreparable damage to any party or renderineffectualanydecisioninfavorofsuchparty.

Acertificationofnon‐forumshoppingshallaccompanythepetitionforinjunction.

Thewrit of preliminary injunction or temporary restraining order shall become effectiveonly upon posting of the required cash bond in the amount to be determined by theCommission to answer for anydamage thatmaybe sufferedby theparty enjoined, if it isfinallydeterminedthatthepetitionerisnotentitledthereto.

SECTION 2. INJUNCTION IN STRIKES OR LOCKOUTS. ‐ A preliminary or permanentinjunctionmaybegrantedbytheCommissiononlyafterhearingthetestimonyofwitnessesandwithopportunityforcross‐examinationinsupportoftheallegationsofthecomplaintorpetitionmadeunderoath,andtestimonybywayofoppositionthereto, ifoffered,andonlyafterafindingoffactbytheCommission:

a)Thatprohibitedorunlawfulactshavebeenthreatenedandwillbecommittedandwillbecontinuedunlessrestrained,butnoinjunctionortemporaryrestrainingordershallbeissuedonaccountofanythreat,prohibitedorunlawfulact,exceptagainst thepersonorpersons,associationororganizationmakingthethreatorcommittingtheprohibitedorunlawfulactoractuallyauthorizingorratifyingthesameafteractualknowledgethereof.

b)Thatsubstantialandirreparableinjurytopetitioner'spropertywillfollow;

c) That as to each item of relief to be granted, greater injury will be inflicted upon thepetitionerbythedenialofrelief thanwillbe inflicteduponrespondentsbythegrantingofrelief;

d)Thatpetitionerhasnoadequateremedyatlaw;and

e)Thatthepublicofficerschargedwiththedutytoprotectpetitioner'spropertyareunableorunwillingtofurnishadequateprotection.

SECTION3.HEARING;NOTICETHEREOF. ‐ Hearings shall be held after due and personalnoticethereofhasbeenserved,insuchmannerastheCommissionshalldirect,toallknownpersons against whom relief is sought, and also to the Chief Executive and other publicofficials of the province or city within which the unlawful acts have been threatened orcommittedchargedwiththedutytoprotectpetitioner'sproperty.

SECTION 4.RECEPTION OF EVIDENCE; DELEGATION. ‐ The reception of evidence for theapplicationofawritof injunctionmaybedelegatedbytheCommissiontoanyof itsLaborArbiters who shall conduct such hearings in such places as he/she may determine to beaccessibletothepartiesandtheirwitnesses,andshallthereaftersubmithis/herreportandrecommendationtotheCommissionwithinfifteen(15)daysfromsuchdelegation.

SECTION5.OCULARINSPECTION.‐TheChairman,anyCommissioner,LaborArbiterortheirdulyauthorizedrepresentatives,may,atanytimeduringworkinghours,conductanocularinspectiononanyestablishment, building, shipor vessel, placeorpremises, including anywork, material, implement, machinery, appliance or any object therein, and ask anyemployee,laborer,oranyperson,asthecasemaybe,foranyinformationordataconcerninganymatterorquestionrelativetotheobjectofthepetition.

TheocularinspectionreportsshallbesubmittedtotheappropriateDivisionwithintwenty‐four(24)hoursfromtheconductthereof.

SECTION 6.TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDER; REQUISITES. ‐ If the petitioner shall alsoallegethat,unlessatemporaryrestrainingordershallbeissuedwithoutnotice,asubstantialand irreparable injury to petitioner's property will be unavoidable, such a temporaryrestraining order may be issued upon testimony under oath, or by affidavits of thepetitioner's witnesses, sufficient, if sustained, to justify the Commission in the issuancethereof.

SECTION7.CASHBOND.‐Notemporaryrestrainingorderorwritofpreliminaryinjunctionshall be issued except on the condition that petitioner shall first file an undertaking toanswer for the damages and post a cash bond in the amount of Fifty Thousand Pesos(P50,000.00), or such higher amount as may be determined by the Commission, torecompense thoseenjoined forany loss,expenseordamagecausedby the improvidentorerroneousissuanceofsuchorderorinjunction,includingallreasonablecosts,togetherwithareasonableattorney'sfee,andexpenseofdefenseagainsttheorderoragainstthegrantingof any injunctive relief sought in the same proceeding and subsequently denied by theCommission.

SECTION8.EFFECTIVITYOFTEMPORARYRESTRAININGORDER.–Atemporaryrestrainingordershallbeeffectivefornolongerthantwenty(20)daysreckonedfromthepostingofthecashbondrequiredundertheprecedingsection.Duringthesaidperiod,thepartiesshallberequiredtopresentevidencetosubstantiatetheirrespectivepositionsinthemainpetition.lawcenter.ph

SECTION9.EFFECTSOFDEFIANCE.‐Theorderorresolutionenjoiningtheperformanceofillegalactsshallbe immediatelyexecutoryinaccordancewiththetermsthereof. Incaseofnon‐compliance,theCommissionshallimposesuchsanctions,andshallissuesuchorders,asmaybenecessarytoimplementthesaidorderorresolution,includingtheenlistmentoflawenforcement agencies having jurisdiction over the area for the purpose of enforcing thesame.

SECTION10.ORDINARYREMEDYINLAWORINEQUITY.‐NothinginthisRuleshalldepriveanypartyhavingaclaimorcauseofactionunderoruponsuchundertakingfromelectingtopursuehis/herordinaryremedybysuitatlaworinequity.

RULEXIEXECUTIONPROCEEDINGS

SECTION1.EXECUTIONUPONFINALITYOFDECISIONORORDER. ‐ a)Awrit of executionmaybe issuedmotupropriooronmotion,uponadecisionororder thathasbecome finalandexecutory.

b)IfanappealhasbeendulyperfectedandfinallyresolvedbytheCommission,amotionforexecutionmaybe filedbefore theLaborArbiter,when the latterhaspossessionof thecase records or upon submission of certified true copies of the decisions or final order/ssoughttobeenforcedincludingnoticeofdecisionororderandtheentryofjudgment,copyfurnishedtheadverseparty.

c)Exceptthat,asprovidedfor inSection18ofRuleV inrelationtoSection9of thisRule,andinthosecaseswherepartialexecutionisallowedbylaw,theLaborArbitershallretainduplicateoriginalcopiesofthedecisiontobeimplementedandproofofservicethereofforthepurposeofimmediateenforcement.(1a)

SECTION2.EXECUTIONBYMOTIONORBYINDEPENDENTACTION.–PursuanttoArt.224oftheLaborCode,adecisionorordermaybeexecutedonmotionwithin five(5)years fromthedate itbecomes finalandexecutory.After the lapseof suchperiod, the judgmentshallbecomedormant,andmayonlybeenforcedbyan independentactionbefore theRegionalArbitrationBranchoforiginandwithinaperiodof ten(10)years fromdateof its finality.(8a)

SECTION 3. EFFECT OF PERFECTION OF APPEAL ON EXECUTION. – The perfection of anappeal shall stay the execution of the decision of the Labor Arbiter except execution forreinstatementpendingappeal.(9a)

SECTION 4. EFFECT OF PETITION FOR CERTIORARI ON EXECUTION. – A petition forcertiorariwiththeCourtofAppealsortheSupremeCourtshallnotstaytheexecutionoftheassaileddecisionunlessarestrainingorderisissuedbysaidCourts.(10a)

SECTION5.PRE­EXECUTIONCONFERENCE.‐Withintwo(2)workingdaysfromreceiptofamotionfortheissuanceofawritofexecutionwhichshallbeaccompaniedbyacomputationofajudgmentaward,ifnecessary,theCommissionortheLaborArbitermayscheduleapre‐execution conference to thresh out matters relevant to execution including the finalcomputationofmonetaryaward.Thepreexecutionconferenceshallnotexceedfifteen(15)calendardaysfromtheinitialschedule,unlessthepartiesagreedtoanextension.

Any order issued by the LaborArbiter in the pre‐execution conference is not appealable,subjecttotheremediesavailableunderRuleXII.(2a)

SECTION6.ISSUANCE,CONTENTSANDEFFECTIVITYOFAWRITOFEXECUTION.‐Thewritof execution shall issue in the name of the Republic of the Philippines signed by theCommissionorLaborArbiterorderingtheSherifftoexecutethedecision,order,orawardoftheCommissionorLaborArbiter,andmustcontainthecompletenameoftheparty,whethernaturalor juridical,againstwhomthewritofexecutionwasissued,thedispositiveportionthereof,theamount,ifany,tobedemanded,andalllegalfeestobecollectedfromthelosingpartyoranyotherpersonrequiredbylawtoobeythesame.

Awritofexecutionshallbeeffectiveforaperiodoffive(5)yearsfromissuancethereof.Incaseofpartialsatisfactionofjudgmentduringthelifetimeofthewrit,theLaborArbitershallmotu proprio issue an updated writ reflecting the amount collected and the remainingbalance.(3a)

SECTION7.ENFORCEMENTOFWRITOFEXECUTION.‐Inexecutingadecision,resolutionororder,theSheriff,orotherauthorizedofficeractingasSheriffoftheCommission,shallservethe writ within three (3) days from receipt of the same, subject to the requirements ofSections12and13ofthisRuleandshallbeguidedstrictlybytheseRulesandbytheManualonExecutionofJudgment,whichshallformpartoftheseRules.Intheabsenceofapplicablerules,theRulesofCourt,asamended,shallbeappliedinasuppletorymanner.(7a)

SECTION8.MANNEROFEXECUTIONOFMONETARYJUDGMENT.‐a)Immediatepaymentondemand. ‐ The Sheriff shall enforce a monetary judgment by demanding the immediatepaymentofthefullamountstatedinthewritofexecutionandalllegalfeesfromthelosingpartyoranyotherpersonrequiredbylawtoobeythesame.

b)Intheeventoffailureorrefusalofthelosingpartytopaythejudgmentaward,theSheriffshall immediately proceed against the cash deposit or surety bond posted by the losingparty,ifany;

c)Ifthebondingcompanyrefusestopayorthebankholdingthecashdepositofthelosingparty refuses to release the garnished amount despite the order or pertinent processesissuedbytheLaborArbiterortheCommission,thepresidentortheresponsibleofficersorauthorizedrepresentativesofthesaidbondingcompanyorthebankwhoresistedorcausedthe non‐compliance shall be either cited for contempt, or held liable for resistance anddisobedience to aperson in authorityor the agentsof suchpersonasprovidedunder thepertinentprovisionoftheRevisedPenalCode.ThisruleshalllikewiseapplytoanypersonorpartywhounlawfullyresistsorrefusestocomplywiththebreakopenorderissuedbytheLaborArbiterortheCommission.

For this purpose, the Labor Arbiter or the Commissionmay issue an order directing thesherifftorequesttheassistanceoflawenforcementagenciestoensurecompliancewiththewritofexecution,ordersorprocesses.

Abondingcompanycitedforcontempt,orforanoffensedefinedandpunishableunderthepertinentprovisionoftheRevisedPenalCodeshallbebarredfromtransactingbusinesswiththeCommission.

d)Shouldthecashdepositorsuretybondbeinsufficient,orincasethesuretybondcannotbe proceeded against for any reason, the Sheriff shall, within five (5) days from demand,executethemonetaryjudgmentbygarnishingbankdeposits,credits,receivables,andotherpersonalpropertynotcapableofmanualdelivery,ifthesameisnotenough,proceedtolevythepersonalpropertyofthelosingparty,andifstillinsufficient,againsttherealpropertynotexempt fromexecution, sufficient tocover the judgmentaward,whichmaybedisposedofforvalueatapublicauctiontothehighestbidder.

e)Proceedsofexecutionshallbedepositedwith theCashierof theconcernedDivisionorRegionalArbitrationBranch,orwithanauthorizeddepositarybank.Wherepaymentismadeintheformofacheck,thesameshallbepayabletotheCommission.

f) For monetary judgment on cases involving overseas Filipino workers, the manner ofexecutionshallbeinaccordancewithRepublicActNo.10022.(5a)

SECTION 9. EXECUTION OF REINSTATEMENT PENDING APPEAL. ‐ In case the decisionincludes an order of reinstatement, and the employer disobeys the directive under thesecondparagraphofSection18ofRuleVorrefusestoreinstatethedismissedemployee,theLaborArbitershall immediatelyissuewritofexecution,evenpendingappeal,directingtheemployer to immediately reinstate the dismissed employee either physically or in thepayroll,andtopaytheaccruedsalariesasaconsequenceofsuchnon‐reinstatement intheamountspecifiedinthedecision.

The Sheriff shall serve the writ of execution upon the employer or any other personrequiredbylawtoobeythesame.Ifhe/shedisobeysthewrit,suchemployerorpersonmaybecitedforcontemptinaccordancewithRuleIX.(6a)

SECTION10.RESOLUTIONOFMOTIONTOQUASH.–Amotiontoquashshallberesolvedbythe Labor Arbiter within ten (10) working days from submission of said motion forresolution.Themerefilingofamotiontoquashshallnotstayexecutionproceedings.(11a)

SECTION11.THIRDPARTYCLAIM.–a)Ifthepropertyleviedisclaimedbyanypersonotherthan the losingparty, suchpersonmay filea thirdpartyclaimnot later than five (5)daysfromthelastdayofpostingorpublicationofthenoticeofexecutionsale,otherwisetheclaimshallbeforeverbarred.Suchthirdpartyclaimmustcomplywiththefollowingrequirements:

(1)Anaffidavit stating title topropertyor right to thepossession thereofwithsupportingevidence;

(2)Postingofabondequivalenttotheamountoftheclaimorjudgmentaward,whicheverislower;and

(3)Paymentofprevailingfilingfee.

b)Where filed ‐Thethirdpartyclaimshallbe filedwith theCommissionorLaborArbiterwhere the execution proceeding is pending,with proof of service of copies thereof to theSheriffandtheprevailingparty.

c)EffectofFiling.‐Thefilingofathirdpartyclaimthathascompliedwiththerequirementsset forth under paragraph (a) of this Section shall automatically suspend the proceedingswithrespecttotheexecutionofthepropertiessubjectofthethirdpartyclaim.lawcenter.ph

Upon approval of the bond, the Labor Arbiter shall issue an order releasing the leviedpropertyorapart thereof subjectof the claimunless theprevailingpartypostsa counterbondinanamountnotlessthanthevalueoftheleviedproperty.

TheLaborArbitermay require thepostingof additional bondupon showingby theotherpartythatthebondisinsufficient.

d) Proceedings. –The propriety of the third party claim shall be resolvedwithin ten (10)workingdaysfromsubmissionoftheclaimforresolution.ThedecisionoftheLaborArbiterisnotappealablebutmaybeelevated to theCommissionandresolved inaccordancewithRule XII hereof. Pending resolution thereof, execution shall proceed against all otherpropertiesnotsubjectofthethirdpartyclaim.(12a)

SECTION12.SHERIFF’SRETURNANDREPORT.–Thewritofexecutionshallbereturnedtothe Commission or Labor Arbiter immediately after the full satisfaction of the judgmentaward. Incaseofpartialornon‐satisfactionof the judgment, thesheriffenforcing thewritshall submit a report updating the Commission or Labor Arbiter who issued the writ ofexecution on the status of the enforcement thereof, not later than thirty (30) days fromreceipt of such writ and every thirty (30) days thereafter during the lifetime of the writunlessfullysatisfied.AcopyofthereportshallbefurnishedtheChairmanandtheExecutiveLaborArbiter.

FailureonthepartoftheSherifftosubmitthereportorreturnrequiredunderSection12ofthisRulewithin the statedperiod shall subject him/her to administrative fineunderRuleXIVofthisRule,orsuspensionforfifteen(15)dayswithoutpay,orboth.(13a,14a)

SECTION13.DESIGNATIONOFSPECIALSHERIFFS ‐TheChairmanoftheCommissionmaydesignatespecialSheriffsandtakeanymeasure,underexistinglaws,toensurecompliancewith the decisions, resolutions or orders of the Commission and those of Labor Arbiters.(15a)

SECTION 14. EFFECT OF REVERSAL OF EXECUTED JUDGMENT. – Where the executedjudgmentistotallyorpartiallyreversedorannulledbytheCourtofAppealsortheSupremeCourt, the LaborArbiter shall, onmotion, issue such orders of restitution of the executedaward,exceptwagespaidduringreinstatementpendingappeal.

RULEXIIEXTRAORDINARYREMEDIES(n)

SECTION1.VERIFIEDPETITION.–ApartyaggrievedbyanyorderorresolutionoftheLaborArbiter including those issuedduringexecutionproceedingsmay file averifiedpetition toannul or modify such order or resolution. The petition may be accompanied by anapplicationfortheissuanceofatemporaryrestrainingorderand/orwritofpreliminaryor

permanent injunction to enjoin the Labor Arbiter, or any person acting under his/herauthority,todesistfromenforcingsaidresolutionororder.

SECTION2.GROUNDS.‐ThepetitionfiledunderthisRulemaybeentertainedonlyonanyofthefollowinggrounds:

a)IfthereisprimafacieevidenceofabuseofdiscretiononthepartoftheLaborArbiter.

b) Ifseriouserrors inthe findingsof factsareraisedwhich, ifnotcorrected,wouldcausegraveorirreparabledamageorinjurytothepetitioner.

c) Ifapartyby fraud,accident,mistakeorexcusablenegligencehasbeenprevented fromtakinganappeal;

d)Ifmadepurelyonquestionsoflaw;or

e)Iftheorderorresolutionwillcauseinjusticeifnotrectified.

SECTION3.WHENANDWHEREFILED.–Notlaterthanten(10)calendardaysfromreceiptoftheorderorresolutionoftheLaborArbiter,theaggrievedpartymayfileapetitionwiththeCommissionfurnishingacopythereoftotheadverseparty.

SECTION4.REQUISITESOFTHEPETITION.–ThepetitionfiledunderthisRuleshall:

a) be accompanied by a clear original or certified true copy of the order or resolutionassailed, togetherwith clear copies of documents relevant or related to the said order orresolutionfortheproperunderstandingoftheissue/sinvolved;

b)containthearbitraldocketnumberandappealdocketnumber,ifany;

c)statethematerialdateshowingthetimelinessofthepetition;

d)beverifiedbythepetitionerhimself/herself inaccordancewithSection4,Rule7oftheRulesofCourt,asamended;

e) be in the form of a memorandum which shall state the ground/s relied upon, theargument/sinsupportthereofandthereliefsprayedfor;

f)beinthree(3)legiblywrittenorprintedcopies;and

g)beaccompaniedby:

i)certificateofnon‐forumshopping;

ii)proofofserviceupontheotherparty/iesandtheLaborArbiterwhoissuedtheorderorresolutionbeingassailedorquestioned;and

iii)proofofpaymentoftherequiredfees.

SECTION5.THEPUBLICANDPRIVATERESPONDENTSIMPLEADEDINTHEPETITION.‐TheLaborArbitershallbejointlyimpleadedwiththeprivaterespondentasapublicrespondentin a nominal capacity. As used in this Rule, the private respondent refers to the partyinterestedinsustainingtheorderorresolutionoftheLaborArbiter. Itshallbethedutyoftheprivaterespondent toappearanddefend,both inhis/herbehalfandthatof thepublicrespondent, and the cost awarded in such proceedings in favor of the petitioner shall beagainst the private respondent only. The public respondent shall not appear or file ananswerorcommenttothepetitionoranypleadingtherein.

SECTION6.SERVICEANDFILINGOFPLEADINGS.–Thepartyfilingthepleadingsshallservethe other party with copies thereof in accordance with Rule 13 of the Rules of CourtfurnishingtheLaborArbiterwithacopy.

IfthelastdaytoserveandfileapleadingfallsonaSaturday,Sundayorholiday,thepleadingshall be served and filed on the first working day immediately following such Saturday,SundayorHoliday.

SECTION7.ANSWERTOTHEPETITION.–Withinten(10)calendardaysfromthereceiptofthepetition, theprivate respondent shall file his/her answer therein stating the ground/swhy the petition should be denied. Failure on the part of the private respondent, to filehis/heranswerwithinthesaidperiodmaybeconstruedasawaivertofilethesame.

SECTION8.OPPOSITIONTOTHEINJUNCTIVERELIEF;WHENFILED.–Incasethepetitioneralsopraysforaninjunctiverelief,theprivaterespondentmayfilehis/herverifiedoppositionorcommenttotheapplicationforinjunctivereliefnotlaterthanfive(5)calendardaysfromreceiptofacopyofthepetition.

SECTION9.EFFECTOFFILINGOFPETITION.–Uponfilingofthepetition,theproceedingsbefore the Labor Arbiter shall continue unless restrained. In case of execution, theproceedingsinaccordancewithRuleXIoftheseRulesshallnotbesuspended,butnomoneycollectedor credit garnishedmaybe releasedorproperties levieduponbe soldbypublicauction within fifteen (15) calendar days from the filing of the petition. If no temporaryrestraining order or writ of preliminary injunction is issued within the said period, themoneycollectedorcreditgarnishedshallbereleasedand/orthepropertieslevieduponsoldbypublicauctionandtheproceedsofthesaleapplied,tosatisfythejudgment.

In case of execution proceedings, the Labor Arbiter shall immediately informwriting theCommissionortheDivisionwherethepetitionispendingofthesatisfactionofthejudgment,and,ifcircumstanceswarrant,theCommissionshalldismissthepetitionforbeingmoot.

TherecordsofthecaseshallnotbeelevatedtotheCommissionunlessotherwiseordered.

SECTION10.VERIFIEDAPPLICATION,ISSUANCEOFTEMPORARYRESTRAININGORDERORPRELIMINARYINJUNCTION;BOND:–Uponthefilingofaverifiedapplicationfor injunctiverelief,togetherwithsupportingaffidavitsanddocuments,theCommissionmayissueawritofapreliminaryinjunctionbasedonanyoftheapplicablegroundsprovidedforinSection3,Rule 58 of the Rules of Court for the preservation of the rights of the parties pending

resolution of the petition. Thewrit of preliminary injunction shall be effective for a non‐extendibleperiodofsixty(60)calendardaysfromserviceontheprivaterespondent.

If itshallappearfromfactsshownbytheverifiedapplicationandaffidavitsthatgreatandirreparabledamageand/or injurywouldresult tothepetitionerbeforethepetitioncanberesolved, the Commissionmay issue a temporary restraining order exparte effective for anon‐extendibleperiodoftwenty(20)calendardaysfromserviceontheprivaterespondent.

In the issuance of a temporary restraining order or writ of preliminary injunction, theCommissionshallrequirethepostingofacashbondintheamountofFiftyThousandPesos(P50,000.00), or such higher amount as may be determined by the Commission, torecompense thoseenjoined forany loss,expenseordamagecausedby the improvidentorerroneousissuanceofsuchorderorinjunction,includingallreasonablecosts.

An additional cash bondmaybe requiredby theCommission in the issuance of awrit ofpreliminaryinjunction.

SECTION 11. EFFECTIVITY OF TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDER OR WRIT OFPRELIMINARYINJUNCTION.

The temporary restraining order or writ of preliminary injunction shall become effectiveonlyuponpostingoftherequiredcashbond.

In the event that the application for a writ of preliminary injunction is denied or notresolvedwithin the said period, the temporary restraining order is deemed automaticallyvacated.

Theapplicationforatemporaryrestrainingorderorawritofpreliminaryinjunctionmaybedenied,orifgranted,maybedissolved,onanygroundsprovidedforinSection6,Rule58oftheRulesofCourt.

SECTION12.EFFECTOFINJUNCTION.–Theissuanceofatemporaryrestrainingorderorawrit of preliminary injunction, unless otherwise declared by the Commission, shall notsuspendtheproceedingsbeforetheLaborArbiterorstaytheimplementationofthewritofexecution but shall only restrain or enjoin such particular act/s as therein decreed to berestrainedorenjoined.

SECTION13.RESOLUTIONOFPETITION. – If theCommission finds that theallegationsofthepetitionaretrue,itshall:

a)renderjudgmentforthereliefprayedforortowhichthepetitionerisentitled,and/or

b) grant a final injunction perpetually enjoining the Labor Arbiter or any person actingunder his/her authority from the commission of the act/s or confirming the preliminaryinjunction.

However,theCommissionmaydismissthepetitionifitfindsthesametobepatentlywithoutmerit, prosecuted manifestly for delay, or that the questions raised therein are toounsubstantialtorequireconsideration.

SECTION14.RECOVERYFROMTHEINJUNCTIONBOND.–Theamountofdamagesthatmayberecoveredbytheprivaterespondentfromtheinjunctionbondofthepetitionershallbeascertainedandawarded in thedecision/order/resolution finallydisposingof the issueontheapplicationforinjunction.

SECTION 15. NO APPEAL FROM THE ORDER OR RESOLUTION OF THE LABOR ARBITERARISING FROM EXECUTION PROCEEDINGS OR OTHER INCIDENTS. – Except by way of apetitionfiledinaccordancewiththisRule,noappealfromtheorderorresolutionissuedbytheLaborArbiterduringtheexecutionproceedingsor inrelationtoincidentsotherthanadecision or disposition of the case on the merits, shall be allowed or acted upon by theCommission.

RULEXIII

COMMISSION SEAL AND RECORDS, ANDPOWERS AND DUTIES OF COMMISSIONOFFICIALS

SECTION 1. SEAL OF THE COMMISSION. ‐ The seal of the National Labor RelationsCommissionshallbeofstandardsize,circular,withtheinscription,runningfromlefttorighton the upper outside edge, thewords “NATIONALLABORRELATIONSCOMMISSION”, andthe loweroutsideedge, thewords “REPUBLICOFTHEPHILIPPINES”,withadesignat thecentercontainingthecoatofarmsoftheDepartmentofLaborandEmployment.

SECTION2.THEEXECUTIVECLERK.‐TheExecutiveClerkshallassisttheCommissionwhensittingenbancandwhenactingthroughtheFirstDivision,andshallperformsuchsimilarorequivalent functions and duties as are discharged by the Clerk of Court of the Court ofAppeals.

SECTION 3. DEPUTY EXECUTIVE CLERKS. ‐ The Deputy Executive Clerks of the otherDivisions shall assist the Commissionwhen acting through itsDivision, and shall performsimilar functions and duties as discharged by the Deputy Clerks of Court of the Court ofAppeals, and as enumerated herein as functions of the Executive Clerk relative to theirrespectiveDivisions.(3a)

SECTION4.DUTIESANDFUNCTIONSOFTHEEXECUTIVECLERKANDDEPUTYEXECUTIVECLERKS.‐a)CustodyofSealandBooks.–He/sheshallkeepinhis/hercareandcustodytheSeal of the Commission, together with all the books necessary for the recording of theproceedingsoftheCommission,includingtherecords,filesandexhibits;

b)FilingofPleadings.–He/sheshallreceiveandfileallcasesandpleadingsanddocumentsindicating thereon the date and time filed. All pleadings shall be filed in three (3) legiblytypewrittencopiesinlegalsize;

c)RaffleandAssignmentofCases.–He/sheshallassignappealedcasesforstudyorreportstrictly by raffle or as directed by theChairman. In this connection, the raffle of cases forstudyorreportmustbeattendedbythedulydesignatedrepresentativeoftheMembersoftheappropriateDivision;

d) Service of Processes, Orders and Decisions. – He/she shall serve parties and counselprocesses, notices of hearings, copies of decisions, resolutions or orders issued by theCommissionbyregisteredmail,bycourierorbypersonalserviceandimmediatelyattachthereturnsorproofsofdeliverythereoftotherecords;

e) Commission Calendar and Minutes Book. – He/she shall prepare the Commission orDivisioncalendarsofsessions,attendsuchsessionspersonallyandimmediatelypreparetheminutesthereof.Forthispurpose,he/sheshallkeepaminutesbook;

f) General Docket. ‐ The Executive Clerk shall keep a general docket for the Commission,eachpageofwhichshallbenumberedandpreparedforreceivingalltheentriesinasinglepage, and shall enter therein all original and appealed cases before it, numberedconsecutivelyintheorderinwhichtheywerereceivedand,undertheheadingofeachcase,thedateandhourofeachpleadingfiled,ofeachorder,decisionorresolutionentered,andofeach other step or action taken in the case; so that, by reference to any single page, thehistoryofthecasemaybeknown;

g) Promulgation and Promulgation Book. – He/she shall promulgate decisions and finalresolutionsonthesamedatethesameisfiledwithhis/herofficeandindicatethedateandtime of promulgation and attest the same by his/her signature on the first page thereof.He/sheshall immediatelyfurnishtheChairmanwithacopyofsuchdecision,resolution,ororderwith a summary of the nature thereof and the issue involved therein. He/she shallkeep a promulgation book which indicates the date and time of promulgation, the casenumber,titleofthecase,theponente,thenatureofthedecisionorfinalresolutionandtheaction takenby theCommissionbyquoting thedispositiveportion thereof.Noticesofsaiddecisions,resolutionsorordersshallbesentinsealedenvelopestopartiesandtheircounselwithinforty‐eight(48)hoursfrompromulgation;

h)Entryof Judgment. ‐Heshallkeepabookofentriesof judgment,decisions,resolutionsandorderscontaininginchronologicalordertheentriesofallfinaldecisions,resolutionsandordersoftheCommission;

i)DispositionandRemandofRecords.‐Uponentryofjudgment,he/sheshallimmediatelyremand the records of the case to the Regional Arbitration Branch of origin, RegionalDirector or his/her duly authorized officer, as the case may be. The Records Unit shallimmediatelypostsaidrecordswithoutdelaywithintwo(2)workingdays;

j) Monthly Accomplishment Reports. – He/she shall submit a monthly accomplishmentreportoftheCommissionorDivisionnotlaterthanthe7thdayofthefollowingmonth;

k)OtherFunctions.–He/sheshallperformotherfunctionsasdirectedbytheChairmanortheCommissionenbanc.(4a)

SECTION5.BOARDSECRETARIES.‐TheBoardSecretariesoftheCommissionshallassisttheExecutiveClerkorDeputyExecutiveClerksintheperformanceoftheirdutiesandfunctionsrelativetotheCommissionortheirrespectiveDivisions.

SECTION 6. ISSUANCE OF CERTIFIED COPIES. ‐ Unless otherwise restricted by Section 8hereof, the Executive Clerk, Deputy Executive Clerks, and the authorized officers of the

RegionalArbitrationBranchesshallprepare,foranypersonaskingforthesame,acertifiedcopy,undertheSealoftheCommission,ofanypaper,record,decision,resolution,orderorentrybyandinhis/heroffice,propertobecertified,afterpaymentof thestandardfeestotheCommissiondulyreceiptedfor;Provided,thatapauperlitigant,asdefinedbylaw,shallbeexemptedfrompayinganyfeeforcertifiedcopiesofanydocument,includingtranscriptsofstenographicnotes.

SECTION7.POWERTOADMINISTEROATH. ‐TheChairman,Membersof theCommission,the Executive Clerk, the Deputy Executive Clerks, the Executive Labor Arbiters, the LaborArbiters, and other persons designated or commissioned by the Chairman of theCommission,shallhavethepowertoadministeroathonallmattersorproceedingsrelatedtotheperformanceoftheirduties.

SECTION8.ACCESSTOCOMMISSIONRECORDS.‐AllofficialrecordsoftheCommissionshallbe open to thepublic during regular office hours, except those kept by it in thenature ofconfidentialreports,recordsorcommunicationswhichcannotbedivulgedwithoutviolatingprivaterightsorprejudicingthepublicinterest.Minutesofhearingsorsessionsmaynotbedivulgeduntilafterpromulgationofthedecisionorresolution.

RULEXIVADMINISTRATIVESANCTIONS

Section1. IMPOSITIONOFFINES.TheCommissionandLaborArbiters,byauthorityof theChairman,mayafterhearing, imposeadministrativefineswhichshallnotbe lessthanFiveHundred Pesos (P500.00) nor more than Ten Thousand Pesos (P10,000.00) to ensurecompliancewithdecisions,ordersorawards.

Theimpositionthereofmaybeenforcedthroughissuanceofawritofexecution.(n)

RULEXVEFFECTIVITY

SECTION1.EFFECTIVITY.‐.TheseRulesshalltakeeffectfifteen(15)daysafterpublicationintwo(2)newspapersofgeneralcirculation.

Signedthis31stdayofMay2011atDavaoCity,Philippines.

GERARDOC.NOGRALES

Chairman