CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga – The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region III conducted a seminar on the revised regulations for employing foreign nationals in the Philippines, aiming to ensure compliance with labor laws while balancing investment promotion.
Held on March 19 at the CDC Training Hall, the seminar gathered 111 participants, including representatives from Clark locators, the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB), and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA). CDC Vice President for Admin and Finance Jose Miguel De la Rosa and DOLE Regional Director Geraldine Panlilio led the discussions.
The seminar highlighted key provisions of DOLE’s newly issued Department Order No. 248-2025, which allows employers to apply for Alien Employment Permits (AEP) before a foreign worker’s arrival. However, approval is contingent on their entry and full compliance. The revised rules also introduce a Labor Market Test (LMT) and Economic Needs Test (ENT) to prioritize local workers and assess the necessity of hiring foreign nationals.