The Philippine aquaculture sector is taking major steps to strengthen productivity, sustainability, and supply chain resilience while addressing human and labour risks. With support from the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Government of Japan through the Resilient, Inclusive and Sustainable Supply Chains (RISSC) Project, the country hosted its first-ever National Industry Dialogue for a Responsible and Sustainable Aquaculture Supply Chain in Makati City. The two-day event aimed to promote decent work, responsible business conduct, and stronger collaboration across government, industry, and workers’ organizations.
Japanese officials highlighted Japan’s long-standing partnership with the ILO in advancing labour cooperation in the Asia-Pacific, emphasizing that improving working conditions in aquaculture will contribute to sustainable growth for the Philippine economy. The dialogue gathered around 150 representatives from government, workers’ and employers’ groups, international development partners, and trade and sustainability bodies. Aquaculture, a critical component of the Philippine economy, accounts for over half of the country’s fisheries production and is projected to become even more vital as wild fish stocks continue to decline.
Despite its economic importance, the sector continues to face challenges such as informal employment, unsafe working conditions, child labour, low incomes, and limited social protection. These issues hinder the industry’s ability to create stable and decent jobs. ILO Country Director Khalid Hassan underscored the need for stronger cooperation among stakeholders to ensure that aquaculture growth is aligned with ethical, social, and environmental standards, particularly as global demand for responsibly sourced seafood continues to rise.
Since 2023, the ILO’s RISSC Project has been supporting efforts to promote decent work and responsible business conduct in the sector, including establishing the first Industry Tripartite Council (ITC) for aquaculture in Region 12 and launching pioneering research on decent work and responsible business practices in the Philippine aquaculture supply chain. The study focuses on key industries such as shrimp and seaweed and provides an in-depth assessment of labour conditions, informality, compliance, and social dialogue. It also offers policy recommendations to strengthen international labour standards and enhance competitiveness.
The national dialogue marks an important milestone toward building a responsible, sustainable, and competitive aquaculture industry in the Philippines—one that prioritizes decent work, fair labour practices, and ethical business operations as essential drivers of economic growth and resilience.
