MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines and Singapore are exploring closer labor cooperation on artificial intelligence (AI), care work and social protection as the two countries address emerging challenges in the region’s changing labor market, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said Thursday.
Labor secretary Francis N. Tolentino met with Singapore Acting Minister for Manpower Jasmin Lau on Aug. 26 on the sidelines of the 29th ASEAN Labour Ministers’ Meeting (ALMM) and Related Meetings in Bangkok, Thailand.
The two officials discussed the impact of AI on workers and the need to ensure that technological advances contribute to more productive, inclusive and future-ready workplaces.
They also discussed the portability of social protection benefits for migrant workers amid increasing worker mobility within the ASEAN region.
Care work was another focus of the meeting, with both sides recognizing its growing importance amid changing labor and demographic conditions in Southeast Asia.
The discussions covered the need for policies and cooperation that promote decent work, skills development and adequate protection for workers in the care economy.
Lau also expressed Singapore’s appreciation for the contributions of Filipino workers, particularly those engaged in health and allied services.
Tolentino congratulated Lau on her appointment and thanked Singapore for supporting Philippine-led labor initiatives during the country’s ASEAN chairship.
He also reaffirmed the Philippines’ support for Singapore’s ASEAN chairship in 2027 and commended Singapore’s leadership as ALMM chair from 2024 to 2026, particularly in advancing the ASEAN Labour Ministers’ Work Programme 2026–2030.
Tolentino and Lau reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Philippines-Singapore labor cooperation, particularly in emerging areas such as AI, care work and social protection.
