The Philippines has launched a new Freedom of Association (FOA) training program on September 22. This initiative aims to strengthen the implementation of fundamental rights at work. It will also expand labor education across the country. The program was unveiled by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the International Labour Organization (ILO). Workers and employers were consulted in the program’s development.
The training resource serves as a vital tool. It will build awareness, prevent violations, and promote freedom of association. DOLE Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma emphasized the importance of this right. “The right to freely associate is a human right,” he said. “It gives people a voice and protects their dignity.” He added that it allows trust to grow and progress to become real in the world of work.
The program aims to equip various stakeholders. Government agencies, workers, employers, and security forces will benefit. It will help them to uphold, recognize, and implement fundamental labor rights better. The FOA training resource builds on previous commitments. The country is addressing the findings of the ILO’s High-Level Tripartite Mission (HLTM) in 2023. The mission addressed alleged violations of trade union rights. These rights are protected under ILO Convention 87.
The HLTM made recommendations to improve trade union rights protection. This includes greater coordination, accountability, and institutional strengthening. The Philippines has since taken steps to address identified gaps. A Freedom of Association roadmap was adopted by the government, workers, and employers. This roadmap serves as a blueprint for better implementation. Executive Order 23 established an Inter-Agency Committee (IAC). The IAC bolsters the right to freely associate and organize. It also connects with the National Tripartite Industrial Peace Council (NTIPC) for ongoing dialogue.
Khalid Hassan, Director of the ILO Country Office for the Philippines, hailed the progress. “Significant progress has been achieved,” he stated. “This new training resource is more than a tool.” He said it reflects the country’s commitment to address challenges. It will also implement recommendations for stronger social dialogue and freedom of association.
The training resource consists of five modules. These modules cover various topics. These include human rights, labor rights, and reporting violations. It also addresses FOA in the context of business, gender, climate, and migration.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin underscored the link between labor and human rights. “By protecting freedom of association, we strengthen both our democracy and economy,” he said. He highlighted the country’s resolve to uphold these values.
The Government of Canada and the European Union provided funding for the program. Over a hundred officials and representatives attended the launch. They represented government, trade unions, employers, and other sectors. A pool of trainers was trained in August 2025. The training resource will be rolled out to ensure it reaches a wider audience.
