Participants at the National Trade Union Conference on Employment Security and Constructive Industrial Relations gather for a photo during a 2-day seminar at Brentwood Suites, Quezon City, focusing on inclusive and sustainable work and labor relations in the post-pandemic era. This event was supported by the Japan International Labor Foundation (JILAF) and the NTUC. (Photo: PIA Region 12)
QUEZON CITY (PIA) — Over 80 trade union members from various industries across the country recently participated in a workshop and focus group discussion here, aimed at charting solutions to uplift labor rights and welfare in the post-pandemic era.
The event was jointly organized by the National Trade Union Center of the Philippines (NTUC PHL) and the Japan International Labour Foundation (JILAF).
In her opening remarks, NTUC PHL President Milagros Ogalinda acknowledged the multitude of crises confronting workers today – the war in Ukraine, climate change, global inflation, and more. “We resolve to strengthen further our organizing, education, and solidarity actions,” she affirmed.
Ogalinda expressed satisfaction that more women and youth leaders are taking charge of the NTUC PHL. “It is a source of pride that our women and young leaders are gradually taking over stewardship of our national center,” she said.
Insights from Japan
Japanese Embassy First Secretary Chihiro Kanno lauded NTUC PHL and JILAF for sustaining the annual seminar series to build knowledge and address evolving labor issues.
“The need for work inclusivity and sustainability remains essential and is now considerably much stronger. These should guide us as we rebuild and redefine our work environment and adapt to the new future of work,” said Kanno.
Newly appointed JILAF Director-General Takayuki Yagi provided an overview of JILAF’s mission and plans for continued exchange with Philippine unions. Over 100 Filipino labor leaders have participated in JILAF’s Japan study visits.
Echoing Sentiments
NTUC PHL Honorary Secretary General Cedric Bagtas presented a situational analysis of the Philippine economy and labor landscape. While some indicators have recovered, many workers remain unemployed and minimum wage is below livable levels.
Bagtas challenged union leaders to escalate efforts to promote decent work, collective bargaining agreements, and living minimum wage. He emphasized the urgency of organizing more trade unions.
Trade union members from various industries and sectors participate in a workshop and focus group discussion to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing workers in the post-pandemic era, held at Brentwood Suites, Quezon City. The workshop and discussion are part of the National Trade Union Center of the Philippines’ efforts to develop a comprehensive plan to promote employment security, improve working conditions, and advance the rights and interests of all workers in the Philippines. (Photo: PIA Region 12)
Sessions and Discussions
Throughout the event, speakers from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Occupational Safety and Health Center, National Economic and Development Authority and the International Labour Organization led sessions sharing insights on labor trends, industrial relations, safety strategies, and sustainable development goals.
Participants raised issues like occupational safety amid COVID, and employment prospects with emerging technologies like AI.
JILAF Director-General Yagi noted that AI has been in Japan for years without displacing workers. He encouraged maximizing AI’s potential to complement labor.
DOLE- Institute for Labor Studies Deputy Executive Director Mary Grace Riguer-Teodosio affirmed DOLE’s approach embracing technology to boost productivity while safeguarding the workers’ welfare.
Gains from the Gathering
Union leader Barbra Gonzaga thanked organizers for the opportunity to share best practices. She said the learnings will empower her organization.
With workers facing multifaceted challenges, the workshop marked a platform for labor gro
