DOLE calls for sustainable, quality jobs as AI reshapes Philippines’ employment landscape

The Philippines’ Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has called for stronger efforts to create sustainable, quality jobs as technological advances and artificial intelligence reshape the way work is organised and performed.

Labor Secretary Francis N. Tolentino stressed the need for the country’s employment policies and institutions to keep pace with technological change.

“Technology continues to transform the way work is organized and performed. Artificial intelligence is creating new possibilities… these developments remind us that our policies, institutions, and approaches to employment must likewise continue to evolve,” Tolentino said.

The Labor Secretary said generating decent and reliable employment remains critical as the country adapts to changing workplace models, echoing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to secure quality employment for Filipino workers.

Tolentino also highlighted the role of HR professionals and the service contracting industry in shaping a more dynamic and inclusive labour market.

He said service contractors are part of the wider employment ecosystem and have a responsibility to ensure that flexible business arrangements remain compliant with labour laws and standards while protecting workers’ rights.

“The human resource community and the service contracting industry have an important role. Service contractors form part of the broader employment ecosystem… this role carries with it a responsibility to ensure that flexibility in business arrangements is exercised within the bounds of labor laws and standards,” he said.

DOLE said economic growth and competitiveness must be pursued alongside worker protection and the promotion of decent work.

The department added that it will continue working with labour and management partners to strengthen an employment environment where workers can access quality jobs, their rights are protected and businesses can contribute to sustainable economic growth.