BARMM Finalizes Bangsamoro Labor Code to Promote Decent Work and Peace

In a milestone development for both peacebuilding and socioeconomic reform, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is on the verge of finalizing its first-ever Bangsamoro Labor and Employment Code (BLEC)—a sweeping legal framework designed to uphold decent work, social justice, and inclusive development across the region.

The BLEC, long in the making and currently undergoing its final dialogue and review stage, represents a transformational shift in BARMM’s approach to labour governance. Its adoption will institutionalize a rights-based, inclusive, and locally tailored system of labour regulation, reinforcing the region’s political transition following decades of armed conflict.

“BARMM is the result of a peace process that spanned decades,” said Member of Parliament Alindatu Pagayao, Chairperson of the Committee on Labor and Employment. “Conflict deprives people of the right to dream, to live with dignity, and to enjoy decent work. The BLEC is a pillar of the region’s moral governance and our commitment to transform peace into lasting reforms.”

From Peace Process to Decent Work: A Region in Transition

The BLEC is more than a legal document—it is a symbol of peace dividends being transformed into institutional guarantees for worker rights and economic inclusion. BARMM remains one of the most socioeconomically challenged regions in the Philippines, grappling with:

• High levels of informal and seasonal work

• Widespread child labour

• Youth outmigration driven by a lack of opportunities

• Weak enforcement mechanisms and institutional gaps in labour administration

The BLEC is designed to respond directly to these challenges, creating a labour market framework aligned with international labour standards, including those of the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the national Constitution.

Legislative Momentum and Political Backing

Originally introduced by MP Romeo Sema and refiled in 2022, the BLEC has gone through extensive consultations, technical reviews, and public hearings across Bangsamoro provinces. It has now been elevated as a priority legislative measure by BARMM Interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua, in the lead-up to the region’s first parliamentary elections on 13 October 2025.

This momentum reflects broad-based political will to embed decent work at the heart of governance in the autonomous region. The BLEC is now fully aligned with BARMM’s shared legislative calendar, paving the way for a formal plenary submission following final refinements.

The Final Step: Writeshop and Dialogue in Manila

A three-day writeshop and dialogue, held from 22–24 July 2025 in Manila, marks the final phase in the BLEC’s journey to legislation. Facilitated by the ILO and the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD), the event brings together:

• Bangsamoro legislators

• Labour law experts and social partners

• Representatives of employers and civil society organizations

The sessions focus on aligning the BLEC with constitutional requirements, international labour standards, and the region’s unique socioeconomic realities. Outcomes of the workshop are expected to include a finalized BLEC draft and documentation report to accompany plenary deliberations.

“The BLEC stands as an important milestone for BARMM. It is more than a legal instrument—it is a declaration of commitment to decent work, social justice, and inclusive growth,” said Khalid Hassan, Director of the ILO Country Office for the Philippines.

A Multi-Stakeholder Commitment to Inclusive Governance

The BLEC initiative has been a collaborative effort anchored in sustained dialogue and technical support. The ILO has provided critical inputs from the outset, conducting a needs assessment of BARMM’s labour inspection system and facilitating consensus through a series of participatory consultations. Legal expert Atty. Rebecca Chato has guided the legislative development process.

The Westminster Foundation for Democracy has played a key role in supporting political dialogue, transparency, and accountability in the drafting process.

“We reaffirm our commitment to standing alongside the Bangsamoro Government,” said Sittie Almira Amolan, WFD Programme Coordinator. “We believe the BLEC will not only protect workers’ rights, but also advance the principles of social justice and inclusive development.”

What the BLEC Will Deliver

Once enacted, the Bangsamoro Labor and Employment Code will:

• Establish labour rights protections tailored to BARMM’s socioeconomic context

• Create a legal basis for labour inspections and enforcement mechanisms

• Support the formalization of informal work

• Address child labour and unsafe working conditions

• Introduce policies to support youth employment and gender equality in the workplace

• Provide frameworks for collective bargaining, dispute resolution, and social dialogue

Perhaps most importantly, the BLEC will help attract responsible investments to the region by providing predictable labour governance structures—an essential component for building institutions and growing local industries.

Towards a Peaceful, Just, and Prosperous Bangsamoro

The BLEC exemplifies BARMM’s vision of moral governance, where the gains of peace are embedded into institutions that empower communities, protect rights, and promote sustainable livelihoods.

“Without a local labour code, the region cannot attract investments, build institutions, or achieve industrialization to create jobs,” emphasized the ILO’s Khalid Hassan. “And without jobs, lasting peace will remain out of reach.”

As the region prepares for its historic first parliamentary elections, the adoption of the BLEC will mark a significant step toward realizing the social and economic aspirations of the Bangsamoro people—making peace not only a political achievement, but a lived reality in the world of work.