Indonesia, Philippines Push to Finalize Labour Migration MoU

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia is accelerating efforts to finalize a Labour Migration Governance Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Philippines, aiming to strengthen worker protection and improve migration management between the two countries.

Indonesian Minister of Migrant Worker Protection Mukhtarudin emphasized the urgency of the agreement during a meeting with Philippine Ambassador to Indonesia Christopher B. Montero in Jakarta on Tuesday, September 15, 2026.

“We hope the Ambassador’s support can help expedite the completion of this MoU,” Minister Mukhtarudin said, as quoted on the ministry's official website.

The Philippines submitted a counterdraft of the MoU in August, and Indonesia is ready to continue technical discussions to reach a mutually acceptable framework. The agreement is expected to safeguard migrant workers’ rights, ensure access to decent employment, and reinforce measures against illegal recruitment and human trafficking.

Indonesia also supports the Philippines’ initiative to advance an ASEAN Declaration on labour migration governance, scheduled for adoption at the ASEAN Summit in November. Mukhtarudin noted that the declaration aligns with bilateral efforts, underscoring the importance of regional cooperation in protecting migrant workers.

Beyond policy, Indonesia is addressing the growing demand for skilled labour abroad. Data from the national migrant worker system shows over 290,000 overseas job vacancies remain active, with most opportunities in domestic work, healthcare, and manufacturing across destinations such as Taiwan, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Turkey.

To meet this demand, the government is shifting placement strategies from low-skilled to medium- and high-skilled workers. Programs like SMK Go Global aim to prepare 500,000 vocational graduates and general candidates for international roles in caregiving, welding, hospitality, and other priority sectors.

Between January and September 2026, Indonesia facilitated more than 252,000 migrant placements, with Taiwan, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore as top destinations.

At the same time, authorities prevented over 6,600 illegal departures and handled more than 2,200 migrant complaints. Enforcement actions included shutting down problematic recruitment firms and operating shelters for emergency assistance.

Ambassador Montero welcomed closer cooperation, highlighting the Philippines’ three decades of experience in migrant worker protection. He recalled a pivotal 1995 case in Singapore that reshaped Philippine labour governance, stressing the importance of sharing best practices with Indonesia.

The meeting marked a significant step toward building a safer, more structured migration framework. Both nations hope the MoU will translate commitments into concrete programs that enhance worker protection, improve skills, and expand access to secure employment opportunities. ***