Isla Lipana & Co. collaborates with DEPDev, IW, and Australia Aid on FWA study

We at Isla Lipana & Co./PwC Philippines are proud to have teamed up with the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev), Investing in Women (an Australian Government initiative), and the Australian Agency for International Development (Australian Aid) to explore how flexible working arrangements (FWA) can open doors for Filipino women and those in underserved sectors. This collaboration culminated in a brainstorming workshop on 19 November 2025 at The Westin Manila.

The workshop brought together government leaders, development partners, and technical experts to confirm the study's findings and refine policies that champion inclusive employment. This is a vital move towards crafting recommendations that align with the Trabaho Para sa Bayan (TPB) Act 2025–2034, which aims to address employment challenges in the Philippines.

The event kicked off with a welcome from DEPDev Undersecretary for Policy and Planning Rosemarie Edillon and Australian Embassy First Secretary Daniel Simson. Maesy Angelina, IW Enabling Policy Reforms Director, set the stage with an overview of the study, highlighting FWA's role in boosting national employment and productivity. Usec. Edillon shared the TPB's indicators and targets, grounding the discussion in the broader labor and economic agenda. Cathy Torres, IW Policy Partnerships Adviser, then laid out the workshop's mechanics and goals.

Our team was led by Deals and Corporate Finance and ESG Partner Catherine Lipana-Gomez, ESG Director Daniele Coronacion, Analytics and AI Senior Manager Weddy Diamada, and Strategy Senior Manager Anton Tiongson III. They unveiled the study's key findings, offering insights from both employers and workers and addressing FWA implementation challenges and new opportunities. Their presentation sparked dynamic discussions and collaborative problem-solving.

Kate synthesized the workshop's key points and emerging policy recommendations. French Perdon, IW Enabling Policy Reforms Lead, outlined the next steps, focusing on integrating insights into the study's refinement and preparing for the next workshop in January 2026. The program wrapped up with reflections from Usec. Edillon and Ms. Angelina, reaffirming our commitment to fostering a more inclusive and productive labor landscape through FWA.