The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and Department of Finance (DOF) today signed a Joint Administrative Order (JAO) establishing the rules for the investigation and prohibition of the importation of goods produced wholly or in part through forced labor, reinforcing the Philippines’ commitment to responsible trade, workers’ rights, and fair competition.
The JAO creates an Inter-Agency Committee chaired by the DTI, with the DOLE as Vice-Chair and the DOF, Bureau of Customs (BOC), Board of Investments (BOI), and Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) as members. The Committee will receive, evaluate, and investigate complaints and information relating to imported goods suspected of having been produced through forced labor and recommend appropriate action to the relevant authorities.
As global markets place increasing importance on ethical sourcing, responsible business conduct, and transparent supply chains, the Philippines is taking a proactive step to ensure that trade supports internationally recognized labor standards. By prohibiting the importation of goods produced through forced labor, the country strengthens confidence in the integrity of its supply chains, promotes fair and responsible business practices, and demonstrates its commitment to sustainable economic growth founded on ethical trade.
Strengthening Responsible Trade and Trusted Supply Chains
Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque emphasized that the JAO is a strategic measure that strengthens the Philippines’ position as a trusted trading partner and investment destination.
“As businesses and consumers place greater value on ethical sourcing and transparent supply chains, the Philippines must ensure that our market supports responsible business conduct. By prohibiting the entry of goods produced through forced labor, we reinforce confidence in our supply chains, promote fair competition, and signal to investors and trading partners that the Philippines is committed to sustainable and values-driven growth,” Secretary Roque said.
She added that the measure aligns the country’s trade policies with evolving global expectations for responsible and resilient supply chains, helping create an environment where legitimate businesses can thrive.
Promoting Decent Work and Fair Competition
Labor Secretary Francis N. Tolentino highlighted that the JAO advances the country’s commitment to protecting workers and promoting decent work.
“No worker should suffer exploitation for goods to become cheaper or more competitive. This JAO helps ensure that Filipino workers and enterprises are not disadvantaged by imported products produced through forced labor. It demonstrates how trade policy can support labor protection, uphold human dignity, and create a level playing field for businesses that comply with fair labor standards,” Secretary Tolentino said.
He noted that the measure reflects the Philippines’ commitment to ensuring that economic progress goes hand in hand with respect for workers’ rights and fundamental labor standards.
Ensuring Effective Enforcement Through Customs
Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go underscored the importance of effective enforcement in ensuring the credibility and success of the JAO.
“A strong policy must be matched by effective implementation. Through the Bureau of Customs and close coordination with partner agencies, we will ensure that credible findings of forced labor are translated into appropriate enforcement action. This JAO strengthens our ability to safeguard the Philippine market from goods that do not meet the standards we uphold as a nation,” Secretary Go said.
Under the JAO, the Bureau of Customs will act on the findings and recommendations of the Inter-Agency Committee and implement measures to prohibit the importation of goods determined to have been produced wholly or in part through forced labor.
Whole-of-Government Commitment
The JAO aligns with the Philippines’ obligations under international labor conventions and establishes a coordinated mechanism for investigation, information-sharing, and enforcement against imported goods suspected of being produced through forced labor. It also protects consumers, workers, importers, exporters, and legitimate businesses from the adverse effects of unfair and exploitative trade practices.
The JAO reflects the Philippines’ commitment to building an economy founded on responsible business conduct, ethical sourcing, and respect for human dignity. By strengthening safeguards against goods produced through forced labor, the Philippines reinforces trust in its market, supports fair competition, and contributes to global efforts to eliminate labor exploitation from supply chains. As the country continues to expand trade and attract investments, it remains committed to pursuing growth that is sustainable, principled, and anchored on supply chains that respect workers’ rights and create shared prosperity.
