On June 8, 2026, the International Young Christian Workers Asia-Pacific (IYCW-ASPAC) participated in a research dialogue organized by the Institute of Labor Studies (ILS) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Manila, Philippines.

The dialogue was part of a research project entitled “Workers’ Associations and Non-Traditional Labor Organizations: Exploring Avenues as Entry Points for Representation.” The study aims to understand how workers’ associations and other forms of worker organizations help workers represent their concerns and assert their rights.

During the discussion, the Institute of Labor Studies shared that union membership in the Philippines has continued to decline in recent years. This is mainly due to contractualization, outsourcing, and the growing number of workers in digital and platform-based jobs. While workers have the constitutional right to organize and the country has ratified international standards on freedom of association, many workers still face difficulties in forming and joining unions.

The research also highlighted the growing role of workers’ associations and other non-traditional labor organizations. These groups serve as alternative spaces for workers to come together, support one another, and raise their concerns, especially for those who are not covered by traditional unions.

Representing IYCW ASPAC, we shared the realities faced by many young workers. One of the major challenges is union repression, where workers encounter resistance from employers when trying to organize unions or workers’ associations. Many young workers continue to experience violations of their labor rights, including insecurity of employment and lack of protection in the workplace.

We also raised concerns about contractualization and labor-only contracting arrangements that continue to deprive workers of security of tenure. In many cases, workers feel that labor inspection and investigation processes do not fully reflect their experiences because of the limited participation of workers in these mechanisms.

As a movement committed to the dignity of work and the empowerment of young workers, IYCW believes that workers must have genuine opportunities to organize and participate in decisions that affect their lives and livelihoods.

We hope that this research will contribute to stronger policies that support workers’ associations and other forms of worker organizing. More importantly, we hope it will help ensure that the voices of workers, especially young workers, are heard, recognized, and represented in shaping labor policies and defending workers’ rights.

Through dialogue, organization, and collective action, young workers can continue to build a society where work is dignified, rights are respected, and every worker has a voice.