In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. administration’s call to strengthen the protection of Filipino workers, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) continues to champion workplace safety and occupational safety and health (OSH) compliance through its various programs.
Labor Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma affirmed the Department’s unwavering commitment, stating, “DOLE will always put primordial consideration to the safety and health of our workers above any other consideration,” and has directed the intensified rollout of all OSH programs nationwide.
As of October 2025, a total of 32,257 establishments were inspected to ensure just and humane working conditions. A total of 541 OSH training programs were also conducted, covering 21,920 workers from 14,697 companies and garnering an OSHC compliance rate of 88.69%.
Strengthening OSH policies
DOLE has actively strengthened its policy framework to provide clearer guidance and stricter enforcement for employers.
Earlier this April, DOLE reaffirmed its commitment to safer and healthier workplaces through the signing of the Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act No. 11058, or An Act Strengthening Compliance with OSH and Providing Penalties for Violations Thereof. Through the implementation of the revised rules, the Department provides clearer guidance for employers to uphold OSH compliance, including the provision of temporary accommodation and welfare facilities for construction workers—one of the most at-risk sectors in the country.
The Department likewise issued Labor Advisory No. 15, series of 2025, requiring employers to adopt a comprehensive workplace safety program. The issuance also advised employers to suspend work when conditions pose imminent danger to workers.
DOLE also issued Labor Advisory No. 18, series of 2025, reiterating compliance of all establishments engaged in the manufacture, distribution, and sale of pyrotechnics with OSH standards under Republic Act No. 11058 and other related DOLE issuances.
Secretary Laguesma also actively engaged with various workers’ groups, reaffirming the Department’s commitment to upholding workplace safety, labor rights, and the principles of freedom of association—key pillars of the Marcos Jr. administration’s agenda for fostering industrial peace. Through these initiatives, DOLE continues to uphold its mandate of ensuring the safety and health of Filipino workers across the country.
