Senate ratification gives force to ILO convention on domestic workers

The Philippines Senate on Monday concurred with the ratification of International Labor Organization’s (ILO) Convention 189 on Decent Work for Domestic Workers.

Philippine labor secretary Rosalinda Baldoz said that the Senate’s ratification was “historic” as it placed the Philippines at the forefront of the global efforts to promote decent and productive work for household service workers.

The ILO Convention requires the ratification of at least two member states before it enters into force. Uruguay was the first to ratify the treaty last June, with the Philippines now following suit.

“So this puts the Philippines in a unique position with regards the entry into force of ILO Convention 189,” said Baldoz who witnessed the Senate ratification on Monday.

The ILO Convention 189 protects the rights and welfare of domestic workers here and overseas and makes them part of the formal workforce.

Baldoz welcomed the Senate ratification of ILO Convention 189, as it benefits 1.93 to 2.5 million Filipino domestic workers who will now be part of the formal labor sector “with general protection from abuse and exploitation and their contributions to our socio-economic development recognized.”

“We thank all our Senators for giving our household service workers the dignity they deserve,” said Baldoz.

The ILO Convention 189 sets the new international standard for the protection of household helpers.

The ILO convention mandates that domestic workers be given “reasonable work hours, weekly rest of at least 24 consecutive hours, clear information on terms and conditions of employment, as well as respect for fundamental principles including freedom of association, and the right to collective bargaining.” — DVM, GMA News