The Philippines formally ratified the International Labour Organization (ILO) Labor Inspection Convention, 1947, on Wednesday, Nov. 6, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said.
DOLE Undersecretary Benedicto Ernesto R. Bitonio, Jr. handed over the ratification instrument to ILO Director General Gilbert Houngbo at the ILO Headquarters in Geneva during the 352nd Session of the ILO Governing Body.
Bitonio said the ratification of Convention No. 81 is the 41st ILO convention adopted by the Philippines, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to promoting fair, safe, and secure working environments for Filipino workers.
Earlier in the year, the Philippines also ratified the Violence and Harassment Convention, 2019 No. 190, further demonstrating its adherence to global labor standards.
In welcoming the Philippines as the 151st member state to ratify Convention No. 81, Houngbo commended the country for its unique achievement of depositing two conventions in the same year.
Through this ratification, the Philippines aims to strengthen its labor inspection framework, committing to comprehensive oversight across various industries.
As the convention is set to come into force next year, the government is preparing to enhance labor inspection services, boost the capabilities of labor inspectors, and foster stronger collaboration with stakeholders to ensure full compliance with labor laws.