23-06-2025
Senator bats for labour reforms as Philippines still in ‘worst countries for workers' list
FILE PHOTO: A worker prepares firecrackers for sale in a makeshift factory ahead of New Year celebrations in December 27, 2019. Labour watchdogs have pointed out a lack of enforcement of labour protections, the suppression of union activities, and the failure to resolve longstanding complaints in the Philippines. - AFP
MANILA: Senator Loren Legarda has called on the Department of Labour and Employment (DOLE) to urgently lead a clear and measurable reform agenda in response to the Philippines' inclusion—for the ninth straight year—in the International Trade Union Confederation's (ITUC) list of the '10 worst countries for workers.'
'This should not be taken lightly. Our international standing when it comes to labour rights is a reflection of our domestic realities,' Legarda said.
'Workers are the backbone of our economy, and the consistent red-flagging by global monitors means we still have deep institutional gaps to fill,' she added.
The ITUC Global Rights Index 2025 cited widespread violations of labour rights and the persistence of violence, threats and union-busting practices in the Philippines.
Labour watchdogs have pointed out a lack of enforcement of labour protections, the suppression of union activities, and the failure to resolve longstanding complaints.
Legarda urged DOLE to undertake a systematic, multi-agency analysis of labour rights gaps, particularly those highlighted in the ITUC report, and to identify which government agencies are best positioned to address specific areas of concern, whether in enforcement, protection, grievance mechanisms, or legal reform.
She emphasised the need for a targeted and coordinated approach that avoids duplication and ensures accountability.
Legarda further stressed that the persistent red-tagging and demonisation of legitimate labour movements must not be used to suppress dissent or collective action, as doing so erodes democratic safeguards and deepens mistrust.
She asked DOLE to submit a clear set of reform priorities to Congress at the soonest possible time, with defined milestones and timelines, to enable responsive legislative and budgetary support.
Legarda also emphasised that it is the government's duty to lead and structure inclusive dialogues on labour reform.
'DOLE must proactively engage the labour movement and steer conversations toward key policy priorities. It is through genuine, coordinated dialogue that we can craft reforms grounded in the realities faced by our workers,' she said.
In 2017, Legarda championed the Senate's ratification of ILO Convention 151, affirming her commitment to extend labour protections not just to private sector employees, but also to over 2.3 million public sector workers.
By sponsoring the measure, she sought to ensure that government employees would enjoy the same rights to organise, bargain collectively and access fair employment conditions—rights long available to the private sector.
As a four-term senator, Legarda has long fought for laws that uplift workers and promote inclusive development.
Among her landmark legislation are the Magna Carta of the Poor (RA 11291), which affirms the right to employment and livelihood; the Expanded Maternity Leave Law (RA 11210), which grants 105 days of paid leave to working mothers; and the Green Jobs Act (RA 10771), which creates opportunities at the intersection of decent work and environmental sustainability.
'We cannot afford to let another year pass—not because of the label we've been given, but because we owe it to every Filipino worker whose rights and dignity demand protection,' Legarda concluded. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
