The year 2024 marked a transformative chapter for the Philippine labor sector, marked by significant reforms, innovative policies, and decisive actions addressing both domestic and global challenges.
These efforts collectively signaled a new era of empowerment, rights protection, and sustainable growth for Filipino workers.
At the forefront of these efforts was the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), whose leadership demonstrated the nation's unwavering commitment to worker welfare, inclusive opportunities, and adherence to international labor standards.
Each initiative pursued by DOLE this year served to propel the labor sector toward a more inclusive and dynamic future, redefining what it means to be a Filipino worker in an ever-changing world.
Milestone of transformation
One of the most remarkable milestones came early in the year when the Philippines became the first Asian country to ratify the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Convention No. 190.
This groundbreaking treaty aimed at eliminating workplace violence and harassment, marking a transformative shift in the nation's labor landscape.
It not only safeguarded workers across all sectors but also firmly established the Philippines as a regional leader in labor rights advocacy, setting a precedent for other nations to follow.
Domestically, DOLE made significant strides in addressing unemployment and creating meaningful job opportunities.
During the 122nd Labor Day celebration, the department organized 94 job fairs nationwide, linking thousands of job seekers to both local and overseas employers.
These efforts represented a major shift toward accessible and equitable employment for all Filipinos, offering tangible opportunities for growth and stability.
This momentum continued in September with the "Bagong Pilipinas Job Fair," where 915 employers offered over 67,000 job vacancies.
This initiative, which responded to the mid-year unemployment rate surge, was not only a direct answer to immediate labor market challenges but also a clear example of how DOLE’s proactive approach is reshaping the labor market to meet the evolving needs of the Filipino workforce.
Further addressing worker welfare, DOLE launched a voluntary four-day workweek arrangement, an initiative that goes beyond just flexible work hours.
This move was a significant transformation in how work-life balance is viewed in the Philippines, aiming to enhance mental health and productivity while fostering a healthier, more sustainable work environment for workers in both the public and private sectors.
By embracing this progressive work arrangement, the government is taking a bold step towards shaping a more responsive and worker-centered labor market.
Empowering Filipino workers
DOLE also navigated complex challenges in the realm of foreign employment, particularly within the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) industry.
From January to April, the department issued over 8,000 Alien Employment Permits (AEPs) for licensed internet gaming operators, representing a growing sector that also presented emerging risks.
In response to mounting concerns over illicit activities in the POGO sector, DOLE implemented stricter regulations to protect both local and foreign workers.
This swift and decisive action underscored DOLE’s ability to adapt to an ever-changing labor landscape, ensuring that workers remain protected even as industries evolve.
In October, the department organized a specialized job fair to assist displaced POGO workers, offering nearly 7,000 vacancies.
This initiative was a powerful example of how DOLE's responsive actions are shaping a labor market that is adaptable, supportive, and focused on providing workers with stable opportunities, regardless of sector disruptions.
In collaboration with Canada, DOLE spearheaded a transformative project to combat child labor and strengthen workers' freedom of association.
Funded by Employment and Social Development Canada, this five-year initiative reinforced the Philippine Program Against Child Labor and empowered workers' collective bargaining rights.
This partnership not only tackles pressing labor issues but also reflects the broader transformation of the labor sector towards greater protection, empowerment, and advocacy for workers' rights.
To address the rising cost of living, DOLE facilitated wage adjustments through the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB).
Effective July 16, a P35 daily minimum wage increase raised the minimum wage for non-agricultural workers to P645 and agricultural workers to P608.
This adjustment is more than a financial measure; it represents a commitment to addressing workers’ needs in the face of an ever-increasing cost of living, ensuring that Filipino workers can thrive in the evolving economic landscape.
Strategic partnerships also played a crucial role in empowering workers.
A notable collaboration with the National Electrification Administration (NEA) amplified the voices of workers in the electric cooperative sector, strengthening their position in labor negotiations.
These efforts reflect a larger transformation in how labor negotiations and workers' rights are treated, ensuring a fairer, more equitable system for all sectors of the workforce.
Additionally, the Labor and Employment Plan 2023–2028 outlined strategic priorities, including employment promotion, human resource development, and enhanced social protection.
This long-term vision is a testament to DOLE’s commitment to ongoing transformation, focusing on creating a more inclusive, resilient, and progressive workforce for the future.
International leadership and domestic innovation
Internationally, the Philippines solidified its reputation as a global labor leader.
A critical dialogue with the United States addressed forced labor in supply chains and promoted internationally recognized labor standards, underscoring the nation’s growing influence in global labor discussions.
These international partnerships not only enhance the Philippines' global standing but also shape how labor rights are viewed and acted upon on the world stage.
As the year drew to a close, DOLE unveiled the "Trabaho Para sa Bayan" plan, a comprehensive initiative aimed at creating sustainable employment opportunities for marginalized groups such as women, youth, and persons deprived of liberty.
Targeting key sectors like health services, tourism, construction, and IT-BPO, this initiative is a crucial step in shaping a labor market that is inclusive, forward-thinking, and focused on giving every Filipino an opportunity to thrive.
A year of transformation and triumphs
Looking back, 2024 will be remembered as a year of transformation and triumphs for the Philippine labor sector.
Guided by proactive leadership and a steadfast commitment to progress, DOLE successfully navigated the complexities