The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) on Thursday welcomed the Senate’s ratification of the International Labour Organization’s Convention 190 that addresses violence and harassment in the workplace.
“The harsh reality faced by workers, especially women and Filipino migrant workers, compelled me to file House Resolution 32, calling for the immediate ratification of ILO C190,” Deputy Speaker Democrito Mendoza said.
The House under Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez adopted Mendoza’s resolution in January 2023. In October, President Marcos ratified ILO C190.
“The Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs chaired by Sen. Imee Marcos also gave its nod (on the measure). And now, the Senate, in plenary session, has officially concurred with the ratification of C190,” Mendoza of the TUCP party-list group said.
According to him, “violence and harassment have no place in a modern and modernizing Philippines that is the newest priority investment hub through progressive, worker-centered, and race-to-the-top labor relations.”
“After years of advocacy and legislative campaign, as a fellow legislator and as a trade unionist for the cause that lies at the heart of our shared vision of a just and inclusive society, I am ecstatic for the ratification of International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention No. 190, and look forward to a world free from violence and harassment,” he said.
“Regardless if you are a trainee, volunteer, job seeker, or worker irrespective of employment status, and regardless if private or public, formal or informal, and urban or rural sector, ILO C190 protects you, all of us” he added.
Mendoza’s father and namesake, the late former Senator Democrito Mendoza, was one of the founders of TUCP.
“The ratification of ILO Convention 190 is a significant milestone in our collective pursuit of creating safe, inclusive, and respectful workplaces. This international agreement is a testament to the commitment of the global community to eradicate violence and harassment in all its forms, emphasizing the importance of fostering environments that prioritize the well-being and dignity of all workers” he added.
“This ratification is a critical step forward in creating a workplace culture that promotes respect, equality, and inclusivity. TUCP remains committed to supporting the implementation of ILO Convention 190, working collaboratively with government bodies, businesses, and civil society to ensure its effective integration into the Philippines’ legislative and operational frameworks” assured Mendoza.
The ILO Convention 190 was viewed as particularly relevant in today’s dynamic and interconnected world, where issues of workplace violence and harassment transcend borders.
“By adopting this convention, the Philippines demonstrates its dedication to aligning national policies with international standards, reinforcing a shared commitment to uphold human rights and promote equality in the workplace” said TUCP vice president Luis Corral.