DOLE realigns strategies to prepare Pinoy workers for modernization, geopolitical challenges
By Trixee Rosel
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is now realigning its strategies to meet the demands of the labor market and ensure long-term workforce stability amid existing political and geopolitical challenges, an official said on Monday, Feb. 10.
DOLE Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma said DOLE’s primary objective is to create enduring employment opportunities through frameworks like the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 and the Labor and Employment Plan 2023-2028.
These frameworks, eh said, aim to address emerging occupations and future workforce needs, focusing on sustainable, high-quality job creation that extends beyond temporary, politically driven opportunities.
“While political events may spur short-term job opportunities, our long-term focus remains on securing meaningful, stable employment for Filipinos within the country,” Laguesma said.
“We are committed to ensuring that every Filipino seeking work finds a job here.”
Ongoing workforce development initiatives
To achieve this, DOLE is actively pursuing initiatives like the Trabaho para sa Bayan Act, which sets long-term employment goals spanning three to ten years.
These initiatives are complemented by DOLE’s proactive alignment of labor market strategies with global economic trends, ensuring the Filipino workforce remains competitive and resilient in an increasingly interconnected world.
By aligning workforce development with future industry demands, DOLE aims to equip workers for upcoming challenges, moving away from short-term employment solutions.
Private sector collaboration for sustainable job creation
Recognizing the private sector’s crucial role, Laguesma underscored the need for stronger collaboration to accommodate the growing number of new job entrants.
Recent initiatives, such as job fairs held in partnership with organizations like the IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines, are pivotal in connecting technological advancements with employment opportunities.
“The private sector is key to generating quality, sustainable jobs, and private investments are essential in shaping a robust, future-ready labor market,” Laguesma said.
Global partnerships and future employment prospects
As part of its forward-looking strategy, DOLE is tapping into foreign investment opportunities, with over $76 billion in potential investments expected to generate more than 200,000 jobs across critical sectors, including power, renewable energy, and electronics manufacturing.
Additionally, partnerships with countries like Finland are set to create new job openings for Filipinos in sectors such as tourism, food services, and healthcare.
Laguesma also addressed concerns surrounding automation and artificial intelligence (AI), assuring that DOLE is working closely with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to upskill the workforce and prepare them for industries impacted by automation.
While AI may replace certain jobs, Laguesma emphasized that it also creates new opportunities for innovation and growth.
DOLE will implement regulatory measures to safeguard workers, ensuring their smooth transition into emerging opportunities.
Through strategic planning, private sector collaboration, and global partnerships, DOLE aims to future-proof the Filipino workforce, equipping it with the skills and adaptability necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing global economy.