Atty. Roy L. Buenafe is a distinguished legal professional and career executive currently serving as a Regional Director for the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in the Philippines. Throughout his tenure, Atty. Buenafe has been instrumental in advancing the department’s mandate to promote gainful employment opportunities, develop human resources, and protect workers’ welfare across various strategic regions, including his leadership roles in Region IX (Zamboanga Peninsula), Region IV-A (CALABARZON), and Region VII (Central Visayas).

A specialist in labour relations and dispute resolution, Atty. Buenafe is widely recognised for his expertise in the Single Entry Approach (SEnA)—an administrative mechanism designed to provide speedy, impartial, and inexpensive settlement of labour issues. Under his leadership, his offices have achieved significant milestones, including the prestigious Philippine Quality Award (PQA), reflecting his commitment to excellence in public service and the implementation of robust quality management systems.

Beyond dispute resolution, Atty. Buenafe has spearheaded numerous social protection programmes, notably the TUPAD emergency employment initiative and Project Angel Tree, which assists child labourers and their families. His strategic vision focuses on “harmonising labour and management,” viewing both sectors not as opposing forces but as essential partners in national economic stability. As a veteran public servant, he continues to advocate for the “Ease of Doing Business” while ensuring that the fundamental rights of the Filipino workforce remain at the forefront of regional development.