Gov’t panel established to probe use of forced labor in making imported goods

The government has established an inter-agency committee to investigate and block imports produced using forced labor, according to a joint administrative order (JAO) reported by BusinessWorld.

The committee will be chaired by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) as vice-chair, and includes the Department of Finance (DoF) as a member. The JAO grants the panel authority to investigate supply chains and recommend actions against shipments linked to forced labor.

The move aligns with global efforts to combat forced labor in trade, including U.S. customs enforcement and international labor standards. The panel is expected to bolster the Philippines’ compliance with trade agreements and protect domestic industries from unfair competition.