In a collaborative effort to boost workplace productivity, the RTWPB-IX, in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) – Zamboanga City Field Office and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) IX, conducted a seminar-workshop titled “Design Thinking: A Tool for Workplace Productivity” on 28 July 2025 in Zamboanga City. 

The training brought together 44 participants from 34 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) operating in Zamboanga City.  The workshop aimed to equip participants with human-centered problem-solving techniques that foster creativity and innovation in the workplace. 

Ms. Nur Iyam Paches, Administrative Assistant I of RTWPB-IX, introduced the core concepts and benefits of Design Thinking. Engr. Erra Jelle L. Gracia, Senior Labor and Employment Officer, and Mr. Ric Luke B. Garcia, Labor and Employment Officer III, provided an in-depth discussion of the Design Thinking process, guiding participants through its stages. 

Hands-on activities allowed attendees to apply the principles of Design Thinking in real-world scenarios. This practical application significantly enhanced their understanding and appreciation of the methodology. 

Participants expressed their strong satisfaction with the training. Ms. Ma. Madelyn Barbacena, Chief of Operations of La Salsa Fil-Mex Cantina, shared her gratitude, stating, “We are thankful for the opportunity to attend this training. Every time RTWPB IX invites us, we gain new insights that we can apply to our management, operations, and employees.” 

Ms. Leslie G. Santiago, HR Head of Infinites Salon and Barbershop, added, “We are very satisfied with the training. The concepts discussed are practical and will be very helpful to our operations.”

The event was also graced by Chief Maria Elena T. Alabata, Head of DOLE-Zamboanga City Field Office. She highlighted various DOLE programs and services, encouraging participants to actively engage with DOLE and its attached agencies to further enhance workplace productivity.