PH takes lead in promoting DEI in Southeast Asia
In today’s increasingly globalized and interconnected world, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) have become essential principles that create a healthy, fair, innovative and resilient community, especially in workplaces.
Although often interchangeable, diversity and inclusion are distinct concepts.
Diversity focuses on the idea of “who is in the room”, and making sure that people from various social and ethnic backgrounds, genders, sexual orientation etc. are represented.
In contrast, inclusivity refers to the “inclusion” or “how people are treated” in the same room.
It’s about ensuring that everyone is respected, valued and can participate regardless of their differences. It focuses on providing equal access to opportunities and resources and allowing everyone to contribute.
Equity, on the other hand, focuses on the sustainability of diversity and inclusivity. It is essential to ensure that fair treatment is provided and that opportunities are accessible to all.
Equity helps create an environment that is “fair” and inclusive in a diverse workplace.
Adherence to these principles ultimately contributes to a healthy bottom line.
This is why numerous companies all over the world—including those in the Philippines—continue to promote DEI in the workplace despite the often vicious attacks on these principles by outside forces.
According to the leading online job portal Jobstreet by SEEK, the Philippines actually leads in adopting and promoting DEI in Southeast Asia.
Their latest Hiring, Compensation & Benefits Report 2025 shows that 63 percent of companies in the Philippines have adopted DEI initiatives.
This is followed by Thailand at 58 percent, Indonesia at 56 percent, Singapore at 42 percent and Malaysia at 40 percent.
The report showcases that Filipino companies are proactive in investing in inclusive practices, with 62 percent implementing antidiscrimination and harassment polices, while 59 percent are establishing employee resource groups.
Other efforts include unconscious bias training at 54 percent, regular DEI assessments at 44 percent and mentorship programs for underrepresented groups at 46 percent.
The Philippines also shows a strong commitment to equitable hiring practices, with over half of companies setting clear DEI goals and nearly 47 percent adopting blind resume screening.
Notably, 77 percent now regularly update job descriptions to minimize bias and foster fairness and inclusivity.
Currently, around 50 percent of companies in the region have implemented DEI initiatives, while 18 percent of businesses do not intend to adopt any within the next year.
While 2 percent of companies are set to launch DEI initiatives soon, and 28 percent are contemplating doing so in the upcoming year.
The report also states that the leadership of the Philippines and Thailand in adopting DEI initiatives is likely driven by cultural factors and government policies that safeguard marginalized groups.
Furthermore, the Philippines has national policies that support DEI, including the Anti-Age Discrimination Act, reinforcing a legal framework for inclusive workplaces.
It can be recalled that there are known companies like Jollibee Foods Corp. that are committed to hiring the elderly and persons with disabilities, or PWDs.
This initiative stems from the belief that elderly people and PWDs should be given an opportunity to be included in the community. This drive also allows the organization to practice and promote diversity and inclusivity in the workplace.
Jobstreet by SEEK is also dedicated to ensuring a future where every job seeker finds opportunity in inclusive, equitable and diverse workplaces.
In 2024, the platform collaborated with the Philippine LGBT Chamber of Commerce to introduce the “Pride in Careers” campaign, which offers free and discounted job postings for LGBTQ+-inclusive companies.
This joint campaign expanded awareness and highlighted inclusivity in businesses by promoting economic empowerment of the LGBTQ+ community in the country.
This year, they teamed up with the Filipina CEO Circle in offering enhanced leadership opportunities among women. Additionally, the platform has also launched the Fair Hiring Program that aims to prevent exploitation of workers throughout the region.
The global workforce is continuously evolving, and existing cultural factors and government policies reflect the growing importance of businesses in shaping an environment for employees where everyone feels seen, valued and treated fairly.
And in today’s generational workforce, where diverse groups from Baby Boomers to Gen Zs, to the members of the LGBTQ+ are starting to connect and collaborate, companies embedding DEI in their core build a forward-thinking organization where employees not just survive but also thrive.
“As a platform that connects millions of Filipinos to meaningful work, we believe we have a responsibility to promote fairness and representation. Our goal is to ensure that job seekers don’t just find jobs, but also find workplaces where they are valued, supported, and respected,” said Jobstreet by SEEK Head of Marketing Joey Yusingco.
