The Philippines has made significant strides in recognizing the contributions of women and the LGBTQIA+ community in national development through legislative and policy reforms aimed at protecting their rights. However, gender disparities persist, even in workplaces, particularly in decision-making structures and processes. Labor organizations and bipartite mechanisms have been proven to be critical actors in promoting inclusive work environments, but despite this, local documentation remains limited on how these bodies facilitate gender equality within their structures and subsequently influence the formulation and implementation of broader gender-responsive company policies.
Using a mixed-methods approach, researchers examined how labor organizations promote gender equality to guarantee decent work for all and to evaluate how much national Gender and Development (GAD) policies are incorporated into workplace bargaining. Findings show that the presence of the following factors and scenarios in the workplace increases the likelihood of promoting gender equality policies: existence of gender-focused or integrated committees, gender-related provisions in Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs), established support systems for harassment and discrimination issues, and the endeavor to advance inclusive participation in decision-making avenues. On the other hand, while the existing national GAD policies have a significant impact on the programs and efforts at the company and labor organization levels, they are viewed as "compliance requirements" rather than as proactive movements. As such, the study recommends: (1) the establishment of gender focal point systems in the private sector similar to GAD committees in the public sector whose functions tailor fit the need of the industry; (2) encourage continuous integration of gender equality in CBAs; (3) collect gender-specific data on organizational membership and leadership as well as access to DOLE programs and services; and (4) conduct capacity building and awareness-raising for both labor organizations leaders and members.