To promote lasting peace and sustainable regional development, the Philippines, through the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), urged ASEAN member states to prioritize fairness in job opportunities.
DOLE Undersecretary Carmela I. Torres made the call during the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Labour Ministers Meeting (ALMM), where she highlighted the “collective responsibility” of policymakers to ensure equitable employment access amidst the evolving work environment and diverse regional conditions.
Torres urged the creation of policies that address the benefits and challenges posed by rapid technological advancements, which are reshaping the global labor market.
“To build a future-ready regional workforce that enhances ASEAN connectivity, economic integration, and social cohesion, we must bolster youth exchanges through cross-country scholarships, training programs, internships, and cultural exchanges,” she said.
Furthermore, Torres underscored the critical need for collaborative efforts to tackle climate change and its impact on the workforce.
She called for synchronized initiatives in environmental protection, worker safety, skills development, and social dialogue to meet sustainable development goals.
As ASEAN navigates a rapidly changing global landscape, the region’s prosperity and stability will hinge on innovative and cooperative policy solutions.