Equality and discrimination in the Philippines

Central to ILO’s work since its founding in 1919 is promotion of equality between women and men and ending discrimination in the world of work. Combating discrimination through promotion of equality is an essential component in the Decent Work Common Agenda. Discrimination stifles development opportunities for workers, indigenous and tribal peoples, women, children, people with disabilities, workers with HIV/AIDS, and other socially isolated sectors of society.

Through promotion of freedom of association, the ILO seeks to prevent discrimination against workers organizing into trade unions at the same time encouraging employers to organize and promote private sector interests. A Freedom of Association project is implemented to support address anti-union discrimination, inter alia. Indigenous peoples faced historical discrimination and marginalization. Most indigenous communities, particularly in remote areas, do not benefit from the fruits of development. The ILO has implemented various technical cooperation projects covering indigenous peoples in the Philippines. Campaign for ratification of Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention 1989 (No. 169) is an ongoing concern of the ILO.

For further information please contact:

ILO Country Office for the Philippines (CO-Manila)
19th Floor, Yuchengco Tower
RCBC Plaza 6819 Ayala Avenue
1200 Makati City, Philippines
Tel: +632 8580 9900 or 8580 9915
Email