23-2-2024 (MANILA) The Philippines has taken a significant step towards ensuring safer workplaces by becoming the first Asian country to ratify the Violence and Harassment Convention 2019 (No. 190), as announced by the International Labor Organization (ILO) on Friday.
The instrument of ratification for Convention No. 190 was deposited by the Philippines with ILO Deputy Director-General Celeste Drake on Tuesday, marking a milestone in the country’s commitment to addressing workplace violence and harassment.
With this ratification, the Philippines joins the ranks of 37 other nations around the world that have embraced Convention No. 190. This convention, according to the ILO, is the first global labor standard specifically designed to comprehensively tackle violence and harassment in work environments.
One of the key provisions of the convention requires member countries to develop inclusive and gender-responsive strategies in collaboration with representative employers’ and workers’ organizations. These strategies aim to prevent and eliminate workplace violence and harassment effectively.
By ratifying Convention No. 190, the Philippines demonstrates its dedication to promoting safe and respectful working conditions for all its citizens. This crucial step sets a positive example for other nations in the region to follow suit and prioritize the well-being and dignity of workers.
The ILO, along with its partners, will continue to work closely with the Philippines and other member countries to support the implementation of Convention No. 190 and foster a culture of respect and equality in workplaces across the globe.
