Philippines seeks ILO backing for platform worker protections, 2027 labour agenda

The Philippines is seeking support from the International Labour Organization (ILO) as it prepares to lead the 115th International Labour Conference (ILC) and advance initiatives focused on decent work in the platform economy.

Philippine Labor and Employment Secretary Francis N. Tolentino raised the country’s labour priorities during a bilateral meeting with ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo on August 26, on the sidelines of the 29th ASEAN Labour Ministers’ Meeting and related meetings in Bangkok, Thailand.

Tolentino, who led the Philippine delegation, outlined several areas where the country is seeking continued cooperation from the ILO. These include the Philippines’ presidency of the 115th ILC, the ratification of ILO Convention No. 193 on decent work in the platform economy, and the implementation of ASEAN labour and employment initiatives during the Philippines’ ASEAN chairship.

The priorities are aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to advance the country’s labour and employment agenda, according to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

The Philippines’ push to ratify ILO Convention No. 193 comes as platform-based work continues to reshape employment across the region. The convention focuses on promoting decent work and strengthening protections for workers in the platform economy.

For the Philippines, the issue is increasingly relevant as more workers rely on digital platforms for income and employment opportunities. The government’s engagement with the ILO is expected to support efforts to strengthen labour standards and protections as new forms of work expand.

The country also sought ILO support ahead of its presidency of the 115th International Labour Conference, one of the organisation’s key annual decision-making forums bringing together governments, employers and workers.

The Philippines is also expected to use its ASEAN chairship to advance regional labour and employment initiatives, with cooperation among member states remaining a key focus.

During the meeting, Houngbo reaffirmed the ILO’s support for the Philippines and recognised the country’s contribution to the organisation’s efforts to promote decent work globally.

Tolentino also highlighted the importance of continued cooperation between DOLE and the ILO in advancing decent work, social justice, tripartism and a just transition.

The priorities reflect the Philippines’ broader effort to strengthen labour policies while responding to changing forms of employment and ensuring that workers remain protected amid economic and technological shifts.