SEN. Loren Legarda is calling on the government to urgently implement a “clear and measurable reform agenda” in the labor sector amid the inclusion of the Philippines in the International Trade Union Confederation’s list of 10 worst countries for workers for the ninth straight year.
“This should not be taken lightly. Our international standing when it comes to labor rights is a reflection of our domestic realities. Workers are the backbone of our economy, and the consistent red-flagging by global monitors means we still have deep institutional gaps to fill,” Legarda said.
According to Legarda, the ITUC Global Rights Index 2025 cited widespread violations of labor rights and persistent violence, threats, and union-busting practices in the Philippines.
She said that labor watchdogs have also pointed out the lack of enforcement of labor protections, suppression of union activities, and failure to resolve longstanding complaints.
She said the Department of Labor and Employment should take the lead to undertake systematic, multi-agency analysis of labor rights gaps, including those highlighted in the ITUC report, and identify which government agencies are in the best position to address specific areas of concern, whether in enforcement, protection, grievance mechanism, or legal reform.
She added that there is a need for a targeted and coordinated approach that avoids duplication and ensures accountability.
Legarda said that persistent red-tagging and demonization of legitimate labor organizations must not be used to suppress dissent or collective action, adding that doing so erodes democratic safeguards.
She added that DOLE must immediately submit to Congress a clear set of reform priorities with defined milestones and timelines to enable lawmakers to craft measures and budgetary support.
She said the government must also initiate structure-inclusive dialogues on labor reforms to address the issues.
“DOLE must proactively engage the labor movement and steer conversations toward key policy priorities. It is through genuine, coordinated dialogue that we can craft reforms grounded in the realities faced by our workers,” she said.
“We cannot afford to let another year pass — not because of the label we’ve been given, but because we owe it to every Filipino worker whose rights and dignity demand protection,” she added.
