Ratification confirms country's commitment to 'strengthening its labour inspection system'
The Philippines has confirmed its commitment to further strengthen its labour inspectorate system after ratifying the Convention No. 81 of the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
The government formally deposited its Instrument of Ratification for the ILO Convention No. 81 on Tuesday, according to its Department of Labour and Employment (DOLE).
"With the ratification of Convention No. 81, the Philippine Government reaffirms its commitment to strengthening its labour inspection system to ensure fair, decent, safe, and secure working conditions for all workers," said DOLE Undersecretary Benedicto Ernesto Bitonio, Jr., in a statement.
"The ratification of this important Convention is further testament to the Philippines' long-standing and constructive engagement with the ILO and its social partners in ensuring decent work and promoting social justice."
The government noted that it will prepare for its implementation next year by focusing on improving labour inspection services, the capacity of labour inspectors, and collaboration with stakeholders to promote compliance with labour laws.
Convention No. 81 is the 41st Convention that the Philippines has ratified and is the second that the country deposited this year after the Convention No. 190 in February.
Meanwhile, ILO Director-General Gilbert Houngbo said he is "very pleased" with the Philippines' ratification of Convention No. 81.
"With today's ratification, the Philippines reaffirms its commitment to enforcing legal provisions that uphold the conditions of work and the protection of workers," Houngbo said in a statement.
He noted that the Convention plays a crucial role in ensuring decent work through rigorous enforcement of national laws related to working conditions.
"Convention No. 81 also underscores the importance of a well-resourced inspection staff which is composed of public officials with adequate conditions of service and the necessary human, material, and financial resources to carry out their duties effectively," he added.
Convention No. 81 is one of the four governance conventions and a key ILO instrument on labour inspection. The Philippines is the 151st member state to ratify it.
