QUEZON CITY – The Institute for Labor Studies (ILS), the research and advocacy arm of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), actively participated in the Department’s Annual Planning Exercises as part of its preparations for the formulation and implementation of the Institute’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Research Agenda.

The planning exercises were conducted under the theme, “Aligning Strategies and Action: Driving Labor and Employment Priorities for Sustainable and Inclusive Economic Recovery and Growth,” and aimed to ensure the effective implementation of DOLE’s mandates and programs for 2026. These activities are aligned with the reformulated Labor and Employment Plan 2023–2028 and the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Plan 2025–2034.

ILS was represented by Executive Director III Jeanette T. Damo and Officer-in-Charge Deputy Executive Director III Miraluna S. Tacadao, together with the Chiefs of the Institute’s research technical divisions. A series of planning sessions was held from 19 to 26 January, culminating in the DOLE-wide Planning Exercise on 27 January.

During the planning exercises, ILS presented its institutional plans and strategies, including its indicative research agenda for FY 2026. The proposed agenda supports the Marcos Administration’s broader efforts to strengthen the country’s workforce and economy through evidence-based policy research that promotes innovation and employment, enhances worker protection, and builds adaptability in response to global and local economic developments.

The findings of the 2026 ILS Working Papers are scheduled for initial public presentation during the annual DOLE Research Conference in October. 

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