Decent work
Bangsamoro Parliament passes landmark Labour Code in unanimous vote
The Bangsamoro Parliament in the Philippines has unanimously approved the Bangsamoro Labor and Employment Code (BLEC), a historic reform hailed as a cornerstone for decent work, social justice, and inclusive economic growth in the region.
12 November 2025
COTABATO CITY, Philippines (ILO News) - The Bangsamoro Parliament achieved a major legislative milestone with the unanimous approval of the Bangsamoro Labor and Employment Code (BLEC), or BTA Parliament Bill No. 59 on 12 November 2025. It was passed unanimously with 39 yes votes, zero no votes, and zero abstentions.
Certified urgent by the Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim, Al Haj, the BLEC is hailed as one of the region’s most comprehensive and humane socioeconomic reforms.
In drafting the legislation, the Bangsamoro Parliament secured crucial external support. They invited the International Labor Organization (ILO) early in the process to provide technical expertise and ensure the bill’s integrity.
The Parliament specifically acknowledged the ILO's contribution, whose guidance and technical expertise, which began with a labour administration and inspection needs assessment were invaluable for aligning our provisions with national and international labour standards. The ILO provided technical support throughout the entire consultation and drafting process.
The BLEC is fundamentally rooted in social justice, aiming to strengthen the foundation of social justice, promote decent and meaningful employment, and afford protection to labour.
With the historic passage of the BLEC, the focus now shifts to implementation. The Ministry of Labor and Employment will lead the process by conducting public consultations for the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR). At the same time, local government units (LGUs) will begin preparations to establish Public Employment Service Offices (PESOs) in every province, city, and municipality—ensuring that job opportunities and employment services are accessible throughout BARMM.
Once fully enforced, the BLEC will serve as the primary labour law in the Bangsamoro region, with the national Labor Code applying only to matters not specifically addressed by the regional framework.
The Parliament emphasized that this landmark measure is part of its broader commitment to strengthening regional institutions and embedding governance principles rooted in decent work, social justice, and moral governance.