The labor landscape in the Philippines has undergone significant changes under recent administrations. Both President Rodrigo Duterte (2016–2022) and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (2022–present) faced unique challenges and opportunities in shaping employment policies. This article explores their approaches to labor, highlighting key priorities, strategies, and ongoing issues.
Duterte Administration: Recovery and Livelihood Support
During President Duterte’s term, labor policy was shaped largely by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to widespread job losses and economic disruption, the government launched the National Employment Recovery Strategy (NERS) 2021–2022. This multi-agency initiative aimed to restore jobs, support displaced workers, and improve employability.
The following were the key features:
- Job Recovery Focus: Targeted the creation of 220,000 jobs and support for over 1.4 million displaced workers.
- Skills Training and Livelihood: Emphasized retooling, upskilling, and entrepreneurship programs.
- Youth Employment: Promoted internships and job-matching services for new graduates.
- Limited Reform on Contractualization: Despite campaign promises to end “endo” (end of contract), no major legislation was passed to abolish labor-only contracting.
While NERS helped stabilize the labor market during the pandemic, critics noted that wage growth remained stagnant and many workers continued to face insecure employment.
Marcos Administration: Infrastructure and Inclusive Employment
President Marcos Jr. entered office with a focus on long-term development and economic recovery. His administration introduced the Labor and Employment Plan (LEP) 2023–2028, which aligns with broader national goals such as infrastructure expansion and poverty reduction.
The following were the key features:
- Quality Job Creation: Aims to generate over 3 million jobs through the “Build Better More” infrastructure program.
- Social Protection and Labor Rights: Promotes inclusive policies for vulnerable workers, including those in the informal sector.
- Tripartite Collaboration: Engages government, employers, and labor groups in policy-making through employment summits.
- Catch-Up Plan: Addresses pandemic-era setbacks with targeted investments in employment and training.
Despite these goals, challenges persist. Labor groups continue to raise concerns about low wages, underemployment, and weak enforcement of labor standards. The informal sector remains large, and many workers lack access to benefits and protections.
Shared Challenges and Future Directions
Both administrations have struggled with long-standing labor issues:
- Contractualization: Remains widespread, with limited progress on regularizing workers.
- Wage Adequacy: Minimum wages often fall short of living wage estimates.
- Informal Employment: A significant portion of the workforce lacks formal contracts and social protection.
Moving forward, stronger enforcement of labor laws, inclusive social protection, and genuine dialogue with workers will be essential to building a fair and resilient labor system.
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