PH Backs ILO Governance Reforms with Ratification of the 1986 Amendment of the Constitution of the ILO
Permanent Representative Evan R. Garcia hands over the Philippines’ instrument of ratification to Director-General Guy Ryder. (Geneva PM photo)
GENEVA 29 June 2022 – The Philippines took a further step to support reforms to usher in a more democratic and inclusive International Labour Organization (ILO) with its deposit of the instrument of ratification of the 1986 Amendment of the Constitution of the ILO on 28 June 2022.
In formal ceremonies held on the said date at the ILO Headquarters in Geneva, Permanent Representative Evan R. Garcia handed over the Philippines’ instrument of ratification to Director-General Guy Ryder, stressing the Philippines’ credentials as a champion for fair and balanced processes and representations in the governing bodies of the organization, and through the UN system.
“We are proud that we blazed the trail to become the first observer country in ILO’s 103-year history to be elected as Government Group Chair,” Ambassador Garcia recalling the recent conclusion of the Philippines’ chairmanship of the ILO Government Group.
The 1986 Amendment of the Constitution of the ILO calls for a fairer representation in ILO’s tripartite governance by increasing the number of non-observer countries in the Governing Body. It also aims to abolish the non-elective status or permanent membership of the 10 countries of so-called chief industrial importance. This amendment was negotiated beginning in 1974, for more than 10 years until its adoption in 1986. States like the Philippines have endeavored to bring this mandate towards enhancing the institutional vigor of ILO to fruition.
ILO Director General Guy Ryder lauded the Philippine action, saying the move “is a big step towards entry into force of the amendment.”
The Philippines’ ratification, the 121st among the Member States, brings the ILO closer to the 125 ratifications necessary for entry into force. The Philippines is also the 8th among the 10 ASEAN Member States that have ratified the 36-year-old instrument. END
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