The Philippines, represented by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), called for the prioritization of labor issues in regional discussions during the 28th ASEAN Labour Ministers Meeting (ALMM) in Singapore.
DOLE Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma said integrating labor concerns into ASEAN's political and economic frameworks is essential for creating a people-centered community.
He asserted that "workers of all ages drive development and growth," underscoring the need to enhance opportunities and support for workers while enabling enterprises to innovate and expand.
Laguesma also proposed exploring new areas for cooperation to bolster resilience and innovation across the region, suggesting initiatives such as portable social protection for migrant workers, a reassessment of regulatory frameworks, and a focus on emerging trends in online recruitment and platform work.
Furthermore, he advocated for a comprehensive strategy that combines active and passive labor market measures with social protection to mitigate risks and enhance workers' upward mobility.
Recognizing the necessity for efficient resource utilization, the Philippines welcomed efforts to establish a robust system for planning, monitoring, and evaluation among member states to improve access to funding and foster strategic collaboration on critical joint projects.
In concluding his remarks, Laguesma expressed optimism that the outcomes of the meeting would significantly contribute to the ASEAN community's vision for 2045.