THE Makati Business Club on Friday called for closer tripartite cooperation and good governance to protect workers and the economy from the impact of the war in the Middle East.
In a statement issued to mark Labor Day, the business group noted that surging oil prices were putting pressure on energy and transport costs, and overall inflation.
With employers faced with hard choices on prices and jobs and workers having to deal with higher living costs, “this makes close cooperation between government, business and labor essential to ensure targeted support, fair fuel pricing and stronger energy security that protect both the economy and workers.”
It also noted the rising use of artificial intelligence and the need to upskill workers to ensure that their roles are augmented instead of replaced.
“As we mark Labor Day, we call for a balanced and forward-looking approach that addresses immediate economic pressures from the oil crisis while preparing the workforce for long-term structural shifts driven by technology,” the MBC said.
“This includes targeted support for workers most affected by rising fuel and food costs, low income laborers but especially farmers, fisherfolk, transport workers who bring food to our tables and keep people and goods moving daily,” it added.
“By investing in human capital, strengthening public-private partnerships and ensuring inclusive access to emerging technologies, we can build a more resilient, competitive and future-ready Philippine economy,” the MBC continued.
A resilient workforce, the business group said, requires good governance, and it urged a commitment to transparency and institutional integrity.
“By fostering a climate of trust and the rule of law, we position the Philippines not just as a source of talent, but as a preferred global destination for high-value investment,” the MBC said.
“It is through this synergy of human capital and ethical leadership that we can truly secure a prosperous and inclusive future for every Filipino worker.”
