THE Philippines has reaffirmed its commitment to protect workers’ rights as it joined global labor leaders at the 114th International Labor Conference in Geneva, Switzerland.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said the country’s participation reflects President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to safeguard the livelihood, dignity and welfare of Filipino workers amid changing labor conditions worldwide.The annual gathering of governments, employers and workers’ representatives is tackling key issues such as decent work in the platform economy, gender equality in the workplace, and the promotion of social dialogue and tripartism.For the Philippines, these discussions are crucial as digital and platform-based jobs continue to expand, creating new opportunities while also presenting challenges for worker protection.Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino said the government remains focused on ensuring that workers in emerging industries receive the same respect and protections enjoyed by those in traditional employment sectors.Among the measures introduced are plans to improve access to government services through a dedicated hotline for platform workers and stronger legal assistance through specialized labor support mechanisms.“Workers’ dignity must remain at the center of our labor policies. Platform workers are workers; their contribution to the economy is real, and the protection they receive must be real as well,” Tolentino stressed.During the conference’s second discussion on decent work in the platform economy, the Philippines expressed support for the adoption of a convention backed by a recommendation.The proposed framework seeks to establish clear international labor standards while providing countries with the flexibility to adapt these principles to their own laws, business models, work arrangements and employment classifications.The Philippines also advocated for stronger access to remedies, expanded social protection, greater transparency in algorithmic management systems and enhanced social dialogue for platform workers.The Philippines said it will work with other member states to help craft a balanced, practical and meaningful international labor instrument that protects workers while responding to the realities of modern employment.
