Philippines marks World Day for Safety and Health at Work
The Philippines underscores the significance of occupational safety and health on SafeDay, with a focus on AI and digitalization.
Over 500 representatives from workers' and employers' organizations, occupational safety and health (OSH) practitioners, and industry and professional associations gathered to celebrate the World Day for Safety and Health at Work on 28 April 2025 in Quezon City. The event was organized by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO) Country Office for the Philippines.
This year's theme, "Revolutionizing Health and Safety: The Role of AI and Digitalization at Work," provided a platform for tripartite partners to reaffirm their commitment to safeguarding workers' fundamental principles and rights at work, particularly the right to a safe and healthy working environment, amid technological advancements.
A key highlight of the event was the signing of two significant policy issuances: the amended Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the OSH Law, and the Guidelines for the Standard Design and Specifications for Temporary Accommodation and Welfare Facilities for Construction Workers. Additionally, DOLE emphasized its readiness to ratify the Occupational Safety and Health, 1981 Convention (No. 155).
DOLE Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma underscored the department's commitment to enhancing labour inspection and technical advisory services to ensure that OSH remains a core priority in every workplace.
In a message delivered by ILO Senior Programme Officer Ma. Concepcion Sardana, Director Khalid Hassan expressed support for the new policy issuances and the Philippines' intention to ratify ILO Convention 155. He highlighted that these steps are crucial for establishing OSH as a fundamental principle and right at work, contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to promoting safe and secure working environments for all workers, including migrants and those in precarious employment.