The Philippine Government reaffirmed its commitment to a gender-responsive future of work during the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC). Speaking at the Centre International de Conférences Genève (CICG), Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Undersecretary Jainal T. Rasul Jr. delivered the national statement, advocating for the full integration of gender equality into global employment frameworks.
Addressing the “3rd Sitting on the Transformative Agenda for Gender Equality at Work,” Undersecretary Rasul emphasized that achieving true parity requires more than policy—it requires a shift in workplace culture and structural program design.
“Advancing a transformative agenda for gender equality requires ILO constituents to ensure that gender equality is fully integrated into employment policies, programs, and workplace practices,” stated Undersecretary Rasul. “Employers and workers play a vital role in creating inclusive, safe, and equitable workplaces where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive.”
Key pillars of the Philippine statement:
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Integration: A call for International Labour Organization (ILO) members to embed gender-specific goals directly into the DNA of labor programs, rather than treating them as secondary considerations.
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Safety & Equity: A focus on the shared responsibility of the private sector and labor unions in fostering environments free from discrimination.
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Action-Oriented Support: The Philippines underscored the need for the ILO to provide technical guidance that helps nations translate high-level international commitments into “concrete and practical actions” on the ground.
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Protection for the Vulnerable: A renewed pledge to champion a rights-based world of work that specifically protects the most vulnerable, including the millions of Filipino migrant workers contributing to the global economy.
The Philippine delegation’s participation underscores the country’s longstanding role as a leader in labor rights within the ASEAN region and its dedication to the ILO’s mission of promoting decent work for all.
