TASK FORCE VS GOODS PRODUCED VIA FORCED LABOR FORMED
The move came after US President Donald Trump imposed a new 12.5-percent tariff on Philippine exports under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974.
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The move came after US President Donald Trump imposed a new 12.5-percent tariff on Philippine exports under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974.
As the Philippines seeks to avoid tougher US trade penalties over alleged weaknesses in preventing goods made through forced labor from entering its market, three government agencies have created an interagency committee to strengthen enforcement against such products.
The Departments of Labor and Employment (DoLE), Trade and Industry (DTI), and Finance (DoF) signed a joint administrative order creating a committee that will receive reports on imported goods suspected of being produced through forced labor, investigate complaints and recommend appropriate government action.
Labor Secretary Francis N. Tolentino, Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque and Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go led the signing of the order.
The move came after US President Donald Trump imposed a new 12.5-percent tariff on Philippine exports under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974.
The tariff applies to countries that the United States said have failed to adopt or effectively enforce bans on the importation of goods produced through forced labor.
Countries that have adopted or committed to such prohibitions face a lower 10-percent tariff, while those deemed noncompliant, including the Philippines, are subject to the higher 12.5-percent rate.
The duties cover most Philippine exports to the United States, although certain products are exempt.
The committee will be chaired by the DTI, with the DoLE serving as vice chair. Members include the DoF, Bureau of Customs, Board of Investments and Philippine Economic Zone Authority.
Tolentino said the agreement underscores the country’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights and promoting ethical trade.
“I hope that through this mechanism, we will show the entire world — not just the Philippines, not just ASEAN — that the Philippines is leading the way in prohibiting forced labor, respecting workers’ dignity and upholding the integrity of free trade,” he said.
The joint order establishes an information-sharing mechanism allowing participating agencies to exchange intelligence, investigate suspicious shipments and recommend action against goods believed to have been produced through forced labor.
Officials said the initiative is intended to protect consumers, workers and legitimate businesses from unfair trade practices while helping the Philippines strengthen compliance with international labor standards amid heightened scrutiny of global supply chains.
Also present during the signing were Undersecretaries Gerard A. Mosquera and Felipe N. Egargo Jr., Assistant Secretaries Catherine L. Parado and Jebb Lynus Q. Cane, and Bureau of Working Conditions director Alvin B. Curada.
