Indonesia and Philippines Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation in Manpower

Geneva, The Gulf Observer: The governments of Indonesia and the Philippines have agreed to intensify their bilateral cooperation in manpower, as announced by Anwar Sanusi, the Secretary-General of the Indonesian Manpower Ministry. The agreement was reached during a meeting between Sanusi and Benedicto Ernesto R. Bitonio Jr., Undersecretary of the Labor and Employment Department of the Philippines, on the sidelines of the International Labour Conference in Geneva.

“This bilateral meeting focused on collaboration within ASEAN, mutual support in the Committee of Experts of the International Labour Organization (ILO), and cooperation in addressing common manpower issues,” Sanusi stated in a press release issued on Friday.

Sanusi highlighted the shared commitment of both nations to promote inclusiveness and more equal representation in the decision-making processes of the ILO. He reiterated Indonesia’s dedication to providing the necessary information for implementing the ILO’s Right to Organize and Collective Bargaining Convention.

He emphasized Indonesia’s view of the Philippines as a strategic partner in advancing the interests of developing countries within ILO forums. Sanusi expressed hope for continued cooperation on various manpower issues, including the democratization of ILO governance, the care economy, worker migration, and the protection of migrant workers.

“We are hopeful for continued cooperation in dealing with various issues, such as the democratization of the ILO governance, care economy, migration of workers, and protection for migrant workers,” he said.

Sanusi also sought the Philippines’ support for Indonesia’s initiatives at the upcoming ASEAN Summit, particularly the ASEAN Declaration on the Placement and Protection of Migrant Fishers. Additionally, he praised the Philippines for its leadership at the ASEAN Labour Ministers’ Meeting (ALMM) and Senior Labour Official Meeting (SLOM) during the 2022–2024 period.

Undersecretary Bitonio welcomed the move to intensify manpower partnership and cooperation between the two countries. He also commended Sanusi for his role as the ASEAN coordinator for the ILO for the 2021–2024 period.

This strengthened collaboration between Indonesia and the Philippines marks a significant step towards addressing shared manpower challenges and promoting mutual interests within the ASEAN and the broader international community.