ILS - DOLE

Invocation
National Anthem
Introduction to the Strategic Conversations
     Ms. Cynthia R. Cruz
     Executive Director, Institute for Labor Studies

Keynote Message
     Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz
     Secretary, Department of Labor and Employment

Parallel Session 1.1 - On Expanding Partnerships and Improving Systems for Social Dialogue

More inclusive representation in policymaking and more efficient processes to settle labor disputes are but some of the aims inscribed in the Philippine Labor and Employment Plan 2011- 2016. This session presents two studies that probe and pry at policies and practices in hope of lending a wider view at how government can meet potential social dialogue partners among professional organizations and how the oft-criticized dispute settlement system can be improved as recommendations are drawn from those who are implementing the mechanism.

Moderated by : Director Rebecca Chato, Bureau of Labor Relations

Panel Presenters: 
           Levinson Alcantara  -  "To Organize and Represent: Policy and Practice for Professional Workers"

          Celia Cabadonga -  "Assessment of Labor dispute Settlement Mechanisms in the Philippines Toward Policy Formulation"

Parallel Session 1.2 - On Improving Social Protection

With limited coverage, policy responses are centered on making social protection schemes more inclusive to better address the needs of workers and their families and reduce their vulnerabilities against risks (e.g. loss of income, unemployment, sickness among others) particularly during crisis. This session will highlight best practices, policy assessment and alternative schemes toward enhancing social protection for vulnerable workers including migrant workers.

Moderated by : Deputy Executive Director Esther Guirao, National Wages and Productivity Commission

Panel Presenters:
           Adeline de Castro - "Exploring the Viability of a Social Amelioration Program for the Banana Industry"

           Benjamin Dalumpines III - "Displacement to Outplacement: Firms’ Strategies to Cushion Collective Dismissals"

            Iza Anchustegui - "An Evaluation of the Implementation of Pre-Departure OrientationSeminar by OWWA-Accredited PDOS Providers"

Parallel Session 2.1 - On Employment
Improving Employment Outcomes thru Adaptation Initiatives

The role of business in creating job opportunities cannot be overemphasized. Extreme weather events, resource depletion, droughts, flood, however, have recently intensified, increasing business hazards and threats of job destruction and worker displacement. Adaptation has therefore become necessary among industries. Players must seek new patterns of production, explore new areas of investment, promote sustainable consumption and adopt measures for innovation, productivity improvement and resource efficiency. The first presentation in this session will highlight the links between environmental problems, policy responses and employment outcomes.
Climate change has variable geographic and social effects. Mainly because of huge poor population and weaker institutions, developing countries are most vulnerable and least likely able to adapt to natural and economic shocks. The second presentation will discuss adaptation requirements of vulnerable segments of the workforce and will highlight mobility opportunities that arise from natural shocks and disaster.

Moderated by : Undersecretary Naderev Sano, Climate Change Commission

Panel Presenters:
          Mary Grace L. Riguer - "Employment in a Plastic Bag: Linking Environment and Employment Policies, Outcomes and Strategies"

          Cynthia R. Cruz - "Strengthening Adaptation Through Migration: Outlining DOLE’s Responses Toward Harms Posed by Climate Change "

Improving Employment Outcomes thru Increasing Mobility

International mobility of Filipinos may be through different channels. Two of the most commonly known are migration for employment and movement of natural persons in the context of trade in services. Complementing these channels, “alternative modes of entry” have emerged in the global services market. This presentation will give light on, and identify, these “alternative modes” and examine how the Philippines can take advantage of these new opportunities.

Moderated by : Chairperson Teresita S. Manzala, Professional Regulations Commission

Presenter:
           Stephanie Tabladillo - "Alternative Modes of Entry to the Global Services Market: The Working Tourists, Au Pairs and Overseas Students in Focus"

Parallel Session 2.2 - On Promoting Workers’ Rights
Achieving inclusive growth through decent work calls for the promotion and protection of the rights of workers. These rights are well-entrenched in the Philippine Constitution, the observance of which is guaranteed to all Filipino workers, wherever they may be. This session explores current issues on the observance of workers’ rights given the changes in the labor market particularly those influencing employment relationships and the movement of workers for overseas employment.

Moderated by : Ms. Grace Colet, Country Manager, Jobstreet.com

Panel Presenters:
           Katherine Brimon - "Flexible Work: Learning from the Practices of Global Enterprises"

           Rosario Mangahas - "Assessment Report: DOLE Labor Education Program"

           Olivette Gabito - "The Philippines’ Selective Deployment Strategy and Its Implications for Employment"