Our country’s 49.9 million-strong workforce stands at a pivotal juncture, facing the dual challenges of rapid technological advancement and the pressing need for sustainable practices. As the global economy shifts towards digital and green industries, it is crucial for the Philippines to future-proof its workforce. This involves a concerted effort in upskilling and standardization, key components that the Philippine Skills Framework (PSF) aims to address. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) plays a vital role in this initiative, preparing Filipino workers for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
The Need for Upskilling
In an era defined by technological disruption, upskilling has become essential. The World Economic Forum predicts that by 2025 (which is less than a month away) 85 million jobs may be displaced due to automation while 97 million new roles could emerge that are more suited to the new division of labor between humans and machines. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) identifies three megatrends: demographic, digital, and green and how they reshape the structures of production and consumption with major implications for jobs. This shift highlights the necessity for workers to acquire new skills that align with evolving job demands.
In the Philippines, the DOLE has recognized this urgency. Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma has crafted the Labor and Employment Plan (LEP) 2023-2028 that can vastly improve the number and quality of jobs for Filipinos. At the AmCham Annual Talent Summit last February, Undersecretary for Employment and Human Resources Development cluster Carmela Torres said that the department is actively mapping skills and competencies along with skills gaps and training needs. Even back in 2019, Undersecretary Ciriaco Lagunzad highlighted the importance of providing timely labor market signals to prepare the youth effectively. He states that by establishing strong educational foundations, future workers can harness their potential and adapt to changing job landscapes.
Standardization through the Philippine Skills Framework
The Philippine Skills Framework serves as a blueprint for aligning education and training with industry needs. The PSF initiative is a result of the partnership between the Philippines and Singapore, sealed through a Memorandum of Understanding in September 2029 between the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and SkillsFuture Singapore to improve the country’s human capital.
More than a document, the PSF is co-created by employers, industry associations, educational institutions, unions, and government for the Philippine workforce. It creates a common skills language for individuals, employers, and training providers; builds deep skills for a lean workforce; enhances business competitiveness; and supports employment and employability.
This framework provides a structured approach to skills enhancement–functional (technical and professional) and enabling (soft) skills– by outlining career pathways, job roles, and required competencies across various industries. This standardization ensures that training programs are relevant and aligned with current market demands, thereby enhancing employability.
Preparing for Digital and Green Industries
The move towards digital and green industries is not merely a trend but a must for sustainable growth. The DOLE is actively involved in equipping workers with skills relevant to these sectors. The emphasis on green jobs aligns with global sustainability goals, as industries increasingly seek environmentally friendly practices.
Francisco “Kiko” Benitez, the new TESDA chief, has expressed his commitment to creating a “future-proof” labor force that is adaptable to emerging trends. He emphasized the importance of agility in workforce development, stating that equipping workers with competitive skills is essential for success in both employment and entrepreneurship.
Furthermore, collaboration among government agencies, industry leaders, and educational institutions is crucial. This tripartite approach fosters an environment where skills development initiatives can be tailored to meet specific sectoral needs. By leveraging insights from various stakeholders, the PSF can effectively guide training programs that respond dynamically to market changes.
A Vision for a Resilient Workforce
Future-proofing the Filipino workforce is not just about keeping pace with technological advancements; it is about embracing a holistic approach that includes upskilling and standardization through frameworks like the PSF. As the DOLE and other agencies work together to prepare workers for a digital and green industries, they lay the groundwork for a resilient economy capable of thriving in an interconnected world.
With these initiatives in place, Filipino workers can look forward to a future where they are not only equipped with necessary skills but also empowered to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the global economy.
