Not just labor, but lifelines: Recognizing the essential role of Filipino domestic workers

INTERNATIONAL Domestic Workers' Day, June 16, marked 14 years since the adoption of the International Labour Organization's landmark Convention No. 189 on Decent Work for Domestic Workers.

- By Khalid Hassan

This instrument affirmed a long-overdue truth: domestic workers are workers with rights like others. They deserve the same protections, fair wages, and dignity like other professions.

The Philippines contributed historically to this achievement. It is the only country in Asia to have ratified the Convention, which triggered its entry into force. The Philippines then passed the Batas Kasambahay in 2013 and created the Department of Migrant Workers in 2021. These actions show commitment and leadership worth recognizing.

And yet, for far too many domestic workers, the promises of rights and protections remain distant. They still work long hours for low pay, with limited social protection and, often, without contracts or grievance mechanisms. The struggle for visibility and respect continues.

Domestic workers overwhelmingly women are the hands behind the daily routines of millions of Filipino families. They care for children, clean homes, assist the elderly, and provide emotional and physical labor that keeps households running. Overseas, they perform the same duties in foreign homes, often at great personal sacrifice - missing birthdays, graduations, and years of their own children's lives.