Philippines, Malaysia empower ASEAN workforce for digital transformation
By Trixee Rosel
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), in partnership with Malaysia, is leading efforts to equip the ASEAN workforce with essential digital skills to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global economy.
Aligned with the ASEAN Year of Skills 2025 (AYOS), the collaboration aims to address the growing skills gap in industries undergoing digital transformation, ensuring workers stay competitive in the changing labor market.
DOLE has appointed Assistant Secretary Paul Vincent W. Añover as the Philippines' ambassador for AYOS 2025, with Bureau of Local Employment Director Patrick P. Patriwirawan, Jr. serving as the national coordinator for the initiative.
Regional events, such as Malaysia's National Training Week (NTW) in June 2025 and the National Human Capital Conference and Exhibition (NHCCE) in October 2025, will serve as platforms for sharing best practices on workforce development and digital skills across ASEAN.
In the Philippines, DOLE continues to expand its technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programs to better prepare Filipino workers for industries shaped by digital transformation.
Through these combined efforts, the ASEAN workforce will be better prepared for the future of work, ensuring the region’s continued competitiveness on the global stage.