Tripartite partners from the labor, employer, and government sectors affirmed their commitment to support the Philippine Labor and Employment Plan 2023-2028 and to work towards the realization of its objectives.
This was emphasized during the 2023 National Tripartite Conference hosted by the Department of Labor and Employment on 16-17 November, held in Pasay City.
DOLE Secretary and NTC Chairperson Bienvenido E. Laguesma highlighted throughout the conference that "tripartism" is a key value in industrial relations. He also underlined that the event supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s vision of a 'Bagong Pilipinas' based on the ideas of "democratic, inclusive, participatory, responsible, and consensus-driven governance."
The tripartite declaration of support and action plan were included in the NTC resolution that was adopted during the two-day session.
"We recognize that the PLEP 2023-2028 is a tripartite document which embodies the collective resolve and commitment to action of the government, the social partners, and all other stakeholders toward the realization of a modern, progressive, secure, and inclusive society under a regime of social justice," the tripartite statement read.
The document further directs the setting up of an oversight committee "that shall monitor the implementation of the PLEP 2023-2028 and make further recommendations to ensure that labor policies and programs are responsive to the constantly evolving world of work" under the structure of the National Tripartite Industrial Peace Council.
With the theme "Shared Labor Market Governance in Achieving Decent Employment for All," the conference was attended by sectoral representatives from the NTIPC, Regional TIPCs, Industry Tripartite Councils, and government stakeholders.
To ensure labor market governance that upholds all fundamental workplace rights, international labor standards, and human rights, as well as to build an equitable and inclusive social protection system, the participants discussed the PLEP's strategic areas of priority, which include maximizing, productive, remunerative, freely chosen, and sustainable work and employment opportunities.
The alignment of the Filipino workforce's skills and qualifications with industry demands, the strengthening of Public Employment Service Offices to address skill gaps and utilize local talent, and the reinforcement of measures to safeguard micro, small, and medium enterprises, and their employees from the impact of international trade agreements are some of the strategies identified to support the PLEP priority on maximizing productive, remunerative, freely chosen, sustainable work, and employment opportunities.
It was also recommended a thorough review of the Department Order concerning contractualization and recommended that solidarity liability for principals be included in the event of regulatory infractions. They also urged a reassessment of national development strategies to address the unequal distribution of skills and jobs caused by an overly metro-centric approach.
Along with a demand to strengthen current structures that facilitate cooperation between the government, academe, and industry.
The conference also agreed to review and assess Labor Code provisions on contracting and subcontracting, security of tenure, freedom of association, and rights to organize and bargain presenting an action plan that includes creating a just transition program; ensuring adequate representation of the labor and employer sector, including those in the informal sector, in the NTIPC and other possible government entities; and supporting activities for the conduct of a process for the ratification of International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention Nos. 81 and 188.
