THE Philippines is set to lead discussions on the emergence of the platform economy during the 113th International Labor Conference (ILC) currently going on in Geneva, Switzerland.
In a statement, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) disclosed that the Philippines was elected to chair the Committee on Decent Work in the Platform Economy at the 113th ILC.
“Labor Undersecretary Benedicto Ernesto R. Bitonio, Jr., head of the Philippine delegation to the ILC, has been elected to chair this technical committee,” said the DOLE.
In his speech, Bitonio cited the need to formulate International Labor Organization (ILO) standards on working relationships that use digital platforms.
This, he said, is especially after the platform economy saw exponential growth, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“There is a broad consensus for an international instrument or instruments that will collectively guide ILO Member States in optimizing the opportunities and mitigating the threats that the platform economy presents,” said Bitonio.
The platform economy is the sector wherein digital platforms connect different groups such as users, businesses, and service providers, to facilitate the exchange of goods, services, or information.
The Committee on Decent Work in the Platform Economy is set to hold meetings until June 12 at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.
