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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Philippines pushes skills-first approach to boost ASEAN workforce

Philippines pushes skills-first approach to boost ASEAN workforce

Published Jul 15, 2025 04:11 pm

At A Glance

  • The Philippines pushed a skills-first strategy to strengthen the ASEAN workforce.
  • DOLE underscored human capital investments for inclusive and sustained growth.
  • TESDA showcased initiatives such as the EBET Framework Act and micro-credentialing system.
  • Industry collaboration and training access were highlighted through TESDA-led programs.
Officials and delegates from ASEAN member states, labor groups, international organizations, and academic institutions attend the ASEAN Human Capital Development Investment Symposium in Kuala Lumpur on May 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of DOLE)
Officials and delegates from ASEAN member states, labor groups, international organizations, and academic institutions attend the ASEAN Human Capital Development Investment Symposium in Kuala Lumpur on May 27, 2025. (Photo courtesy of DOLE)
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is strengthening regional efforts to build a future-ready workforce across Southeast Asia by investing in human capital systems that promote inclusive employment and sustained growth.
Pursuing skills-focused policies anchored on mobility, industry relevance, and regional cooperation remains a key priority for the Philippines in support of the ASEAN development agenda, according to DOLE Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma.
This direction was highlighted during the ASEAN Human Capital Development Investment Symposium (AHCDIS) held in Kuala Lumpur, where labor officials and technical experts tackled strategies to address the region’s evolving workforce demands.
Representing the Philippines, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) presented key initiatives aimed at strengthening workforce competencies and industry alignment.
These include the National Technical Education and Skills Development Plan (NTESDP), the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) Framework Act, and a micro-credentialing system that offers flexible, modular training for Filipino workers.
TESDA also underscored the importance of collaborative mechanisms that enhance industry engagement, including the Industry Technical-Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Boards and the ASEAN TVET Council.
It likewise highlighted funding initiatives that expand access to training, such as the Adopt-a-School Act, TESDA-LGU-NGO partnerships, the Digital Skills Passport, and targeted scholarships for marginalized sectors.
DOLE Region VI Chief Administrative Officer Dr. Arlyn E. Siaotong joined the symposium’s plenary session, where she discussed the Philippines’ shift from supply-led to demand-driven training systems aligned with labor market needs.
The symposium, themed “Empowering ASEAN’s Future: Investing in Skills for Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development,” forms part of the ASEAN Year of Skills (AYOS) 2025 initiative.

Related Tags

Philippines workforce development DOLE ASEAN Year of Skills
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