ASEAN moves to turn green jobs plan into action

The Philippines and fellow Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states are pushing for concrete measures to create green jobs, strengthen workforce skills and protect workers as the region transitions toward a more sustainable economy.

Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino made the call Monday, 19 October, during the opening of the third ASEAN Green Jobs Forum in Manila.

“The green transition is coming. Let us make sure it creates decent work for every ASEAN worker,” Tolentino said.

He noted that ASEAN labor ministers had adopted and endorsed the ASEAN Framework and Action Plan for a Just and Inclusive Transition to Green Jobs 2025-2030.

“The plan is on paper. This forum is where we begin to make it real,” he said.

Tolentino said the forum would focus on establishing common standards for green skills, including shared definitions and recognition mechanisms to help workers move across borders and employers plan their workforce requirements.

Delegates will also discuss policies integrating green and digital skills while ensuring that small and medium-sized enterprises, women, young people and informal workers benefit from the transition.

The labor chief emphasized that shifting toward environmentally sustainable industries must not come at the expense of workers' welfare.

He said discussions would cover social protection, workplace safety and dialogue among governments, employers and workers.

The forum seeks to translate ASEAN's regional commitments into practical policies that expand employment opportunities while preparing workers for emerging industries.