Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma outlined the government’s comprehensive national employment plan at the 13th annual Arangkada Philippines Forum organized by the Joint Foreign Chambers of the Philippines (JFC), following the recent enactment of the Trabaho Para sa Bayan (TPB) law as a blueprint for the nation’s job strategy.
Laguesma said the TPB law would drive job creation, skill development and economic inclusivity over the next decade.
“Throughout the 10-year Trabaho Para sa Bayan plan, we’ll remain focused on equipping our workforce with the skills and competencies necessary to ensure employability and upward mobility in an ever-evolving job landscape,” he said.
“Equal attention will also be given to efficient employment facilitation through updated and reliable labor market information,” he said.
International Labor Organization (ILO) director Khalid Hassan underscored the link between productive, decent work and sustained, inclusive economic growth.
“Crises remind us that jobs are more than money. Jobs connect people, bring families and communities together, and offer social and political stability. Employment policy cannot be business as usual. Job creation must be paired with structural transformation, ensuring no one is left behind,” Hassan said.
The annual forum, attended by leaders from industry, government, the diplomatic community and academia, centered on upskilling the Filipino workforce to drive economic growth amid rapid technological change and demographic shifts.
“We appreciate everyone who joined us to discuss strategies for upskilling the workforce and strengthening critical industries. This forum enabled valuable insights from business, government, and development leaders on achieving inclusive economic growth. We’re eager to continue this collaboration and accelerate the country’s progress,” the JFC said.
The JFC also presented its annual Arangkada Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring former Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual. The award recognizes a Philippine resident who has significantly enhanced the business environment in the country.
The JFC, a coalition of American, Canadian, European, Japanese and Korean chambers along with the Philippine Association of Multinational Companies Regional Headquarters Inc. (PAMURI), supports open international trade, encourages foreign investment, and advocates for improved business conditions in the Philippines and member nations.
