Labor rights must now be taught in the country's universities, colleges, and vocational schools under a new law signed by President Duterte.
Republic Act No. 11551, also known as the "Labor Education Act," directs all public and private higher education institutions (HEIs) to integrate labor education as part of an elective course.
As far as practicable, these HEIs must also hold a labor empowerment and career guidance conference to be attended by the graduating students.
The new law integrating labor education in tertiary education curriculum cited the State's policy to afford protection to labor, promote full employment, ensure equal work opportunities regardless of sex, race or creed, and regulate the relations between workers and employers.
"To this end, the State shall put in place a mechanism to educate future workers, employers, and entrepreneurs, on their rights and responsibilities in promoting harmony in the workplace and social progress in the society," the law read.
The new law defines labor education as "the teaching of basic knowledge on labor rights and other skills relating to negotiation, fostering smooth interpersonal relations in the workplace, and mechanism for redress of grievances and other concerns."
On the integration of labor education in HEIs, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has been directed to develop the program to execute and implement the new law.
All technical and vocational institutions offering nondegree certificate and diploma courses ranging from one to three years must also offer labor education in their curriculum. Those offering short-term courses are also encouraged to teach labor education.
The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is assigned to develop the modules of instructions and other materials relating to labor education in vocational schools.
The coverage and quality of labor education shall be included in comprehensive curriculum review to be conducted by CHED and TESDA.
The law, signed by the President on May 27, will take effect 15 days after publication in the Official Gazette or newspaper.