PH, Croatia move to institutionalize labor cooperation

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Philippines and Croatia have agreed to strengthen and institutionalize labor cooperation as both nations seek to address growing labor mobility and employment opportunities for Filipino workers in the European country.

The plan was announced during the visit of Croatian Foreign and European Affairs Minister Gordan Grlić Radman in Manila, who said that deepening ties in the labor and employment sectors is now a “concrete area of cooperation” between the two countries.

“The most concrete result of our enhanced cooperation so far is the establishment of an institutional framework in the field of labor and employment,” Radman said at a joint press conference with Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro.

“We want to continue intensifying our cooperation at all levels,” she added.

Radman said Croatia recognized the “professionalism and dedication” of Filipino workers, adding that their presence helped fill gaps in sectors such as hospitality, health care, and shipbuilding.

“There are around 16,000 Filipinos in Croatia today, and they are well integrated into Croatian society,” he said. “They are well-educated, diligent, and share common values with us.”

Lazaro welcomed Croatia’s initiative, noting that formalizing a labor cooperation framework will provide stronger protection and more stable employment conditions for Filipino workers.

“We recognize Croatia as a reliable partner in supporting the integration of Filipinos and in safeguarding their rights,” Lazaro said.

Both countries are expected to finalize labor cooperation mechanisms through their respective labor ministries, with a focus on skills recognition, welfare protection, and legal employment pathways for Filipino workers in Croatia and across the European Union.