Manila: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Malaysian government are exploring ways to expand cooperation on jobs and skills training for Filipinos. During a recent meeting between Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino and Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino, discussions focused on enhancing collaboration in areas such as skills training, green jobs, technology-driven upskilling, workforce development, and certification for the halal food industry.

According to Philippines News Agency, the discussions also included initiatives to help Filipino workers gain skills aligned with the evolving demands of the regional labor market. Tolentino highlighted the importance of issuing Alien Employment Permits (AEPs) for Malaysian nationals and proposed direct coordination between the Malaysian Embassy and DOLE to streamline processes. "Faster time, embassy-to-department engagement... So, we do away with other extra bureaucratic layers and at the same time make this faster and seamless," Tolentino stated.

Currently, around 300 Malaysian-owned companies are operating in the Philippines, predominantly in sectors like agribusiness, halal trade, renewable energy, tourism, and logistics. In 2025, DOLE issued an estimated 2,029 AEPs to Malaysian nationals, mostly occupying managerial and professional roles.

Castelino expressed gratitude for the Philippines' continued support and close relationship with Malaysia. He acknowledged DOLE's contributions in promoting job opportunities and safeguarding workers' welfare. Malaysia remains a prime destination for Filipino workers in Southeast Asia, with over 13,000 land-based overseas Filipino workers employed in the country as of May 2025, mainly in construction, manufacturing, hospitality, and domestic services.