President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has called for unity among employers, labor workers, and other stakeholders to ensure the full recovery of the labor market amid economic challenges.

Marcos made the call during the “DOLE@90 Stakeholders’ Night: Gabi ng Parangal at Pasasalamat” held at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City on Thursday.

In his message, he emphasized the need to create more and higher quality jobs to attain the goal of having a “New Philippines.”

“As we pursue a progressive and inclusive Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines), I thus call on everyone – employers, workers, government, and stakeholders alike – to remain united in ensuring the full recovery of the labor market,” Marcos said in a speech delivered by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.

“So, let us continue to work together to produce not only more jobs but also quality and meaningful employment that will uplift the lives and dignity of every Filipino worker.”

Marcos also lauded the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) for promoting gainful employment opportunities and protecting the workers’ rights and welfare for 90 years.

“This shows not only the enduring spirit of public service that prevails here at the DOLE, but also your steadfast commitment to ensuring full, decent, and productive employment for every Filipino worker,” he said.

The President also recognized the awardees and government partners and affirmed labor protection and industrial peace as among his administration’s priorities.

He called on the awardees to sustain their advocacies and inspire everyone to strive even harder to build a “strong and resilient workforce.”

“Rest assured that promoting labor protection and industrial peace remain among the top priorities of this administration, as they are the keys to developing the full potential of our workers and harnessing their productivity towards nation-building,” Marcos said.

The event was part of the weeklong celebration of the DOLE’s 90th founding anniversary.

Its anniversary celebration this year carried the theme, “Serbisyong Mabilis at Matapat sa Bagong Pilipinas” and included the conduct of nationwide job fairs, the release of payouts to beneficiaries under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) Program, and the Kadiwa ng Pangulo para sa mga Manggagawa.

The DOLE began as a bureau in 1908 under the then Department of Commerce and Police.

It was constituted as a department under Act 4121 on Dec. 8, 1933. (PNA)