The Philippines called for closer Southeast Asian cooperation on skill recognition and green jobs during recent regional talks, emphasizing that common standards could ease cross-border worker mobility as labor markets adapt to technological and environmental shifts. According to a Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) statement released on Wednesday, the push was advanced by Philippine officials at the 22nd Senior Labor Officials Meeting in Bangkok on Aug. 24 and during subsequent bilateral discussions.
Aligning Skill Frameworks Across ASEAN Member States
Torres. Speaking at the August meeting in Bangkok, Ms. Torres stated that aligning skill standards and recognition systems across the region would help workers and learners move more easily while ensuring their qualifications remain recognized. In related skill development initiatives, the Philippines expressed support for a Thai proposal to establish an ASEAN Center of Excellence for skill certification, according to DoLE.
Preparations for the 2026 ASEAN Green Jobs Forum in Manila
Preparations are already underway for the 2026 ASEAN Green Jobs Forum, which is scheduled to take place in Manila on Oct. 19-20, according to the Department of Labor and Employment. ASEAN member states and various other stakeholders will gather at the event to review how to implement the ASEAN Framework and Action Plan for Just and Inclusive Transition to Green Jobs, an initiative adopted in March. Beyond green jobs, Ms. Torres outlined broader Philippine efforts to carry out ASEAN initiatives covering human resource development funding, occupational safety and health, the elimination of the worst forms of child labor, and the transition of workers from the informal to the formal economy.
Bilateral Labor Proposals and Platform Economy Discussions
In another development, four targeted labor proposals involving social and labor market resilience, equitable and sustainable recruitment practices, labor inspections in the fishing industry, and occupational safety and health within the informal economy were submitted by the Philippines to gain Thailand’s backing. Tolentino presented these proposals during a meeting with Thai Minister of Labour Julapun Amornvivat on Aug. 26, ahead of the 29th ASEAN Labour Ministers’ Meeting and related gatherings, according to DoLE.
During their bilateral talks, the two officials also discussed the possible ratification of International Labour Organization Convention No. 193 on decent work in the platform economy. That convention covers workers earning income through ride-hailing, delivery, freelancing, and other digital platforms. Additionally, the officials explored cooperation on aquaculture development and worker rehabilitation. As the Philippines gets ready to set up its own facility for worker rehabilitation, Thai counterparts recounted their operational expertise with such centers and welcomed Philippine representatives to tour the establishments.