The Philippine government, represented by the Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE), has recently become a member of the Global Coalition for Social Justice. This coalition aims to advocate for better labor and employment conditions for Filipino workers, aligning with the goals of the Philippine government.
Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma, in his acceptance letter to ILO Director General Gilbert Houngbo, expressed strong support for the coalition’s objectives. He emphasized that this step forward is in line with the country’s commitment to social justice, decent work, and inclusive growth on a global scale.
The concept of social justice has been enshrined in the Philippine Constitution since 1987, particularly in the areas of labor and employment. Furthermore, social justice is a major goal under the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028 and the Philippine Labor and Employment Plan (LEP) 2023-2028. By participating in this coalition, the Philippines not only reaffirms its commitment to social justice but also opens doors for technical and development cooperation with international partners to achieve the objectives outlined in the PDP and LEP.
The Philippines will be collaborating with other governments, workers’ and employers’ organizations, international and regional organizations, non-governmental organizations, and academia to advocate for better labor and working conditions. The global coalition aims to attract increased investments and foster political commitments to promote multilateral cooperation and partnerships. The ultimate goal is to create better work and employment opportunities, improve working conditions, increase productivity and incomes, and promote social protection for workers worldwide.
The Global Coalition for Social Justice was launched at the World of Work Summit in Geneva in June 2023 and formally adopted at the 349th session of the ILO Governing Body in October of the same year. This demonstrates the international recognition and support for the coalition’s objectives.
Labor Secretary Laguesma reassured the labor sector that the DoLE is fully committed to creating a progressive and socially responsible work environment. The recent ratification of ILO Convention 190 by the Senate marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of safe working places that prioritize the well-being and welfare of workers. The DoLE aims to operationalize the principles of this convention in partnership with employers, labor unions, and civil society.
Violence and harassment in the workplace remain significant concerns for Filipino workers. According to a study, one in every five Filipino workers has experienced violence and harassment at work, with over half enduring it multiple times. Unfortunately, many workers choose to suffer in silence due to fear of losing their jobs.
To address this issue, the ILO Convention 190 was established as the first-ever global treaty to counter and put an end to all forms of violence and harassment faced by workers. By participating in the Global Coalition for Social Justice, the Philippines aims to contribute to the efforts of creating safer and more inclusive work environments for all workers.
In conclusion, the Philippines’ participation in the Global Coalition for Social Justice showcases its commitment to promoting social justice, decent work, and inclusive growth on a global scale. By collaborating with international partners, the country aims to improve labor and employment conditions, create better work opportunities, and ensure the well-being and welfare of Filipino workers. Through the ratification of ILO Convention 190, the Philippines takes a significant step towards addressing violence and harassment in the workplace, prioritizing the safety and rights of workers.
Source: The Manila Times
