DOLE Reiterates Call for Human-Centered Labor Agenda

A senior labor official last week renewed calls to invest in human resources as priority in preparing the Filipino workforce in the changing world of work.

Addressing the 5th Annual Public Policy Conference organized by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, Undersecretary Ciriaco Lagunzad stressed the need for “upskilling, reskilling, and retooling” of workforce as a proactive response to the changing demands of the labor market.

“Amid the growing influence of automation and artificial intelligence, it seems that the new world of work is about skills. Investing in our human resources, especially in the youth, must be our top priority in becoming more responsive to the drastic changes in the global labor market,” Lagunzad said.

The undersecretary also stressed the continuous initiatives of the government in sustaining a competitive workforce that supports and complements the demands of the ever-changing landscape of work.

DOLE, through its labor market information systems, provides timely and relevant information on the current labor market, such as the in-demand jobs and skills shortages that will guide the Filipino workforce, especially the youth, in making informed career decisions.

Likewise, the Career Guidance Advocacy Program empowers career advocates, guidance counselors, and training institutions in coming up with strategies aimed to increase the potentials of the current and future members of the labor force.

Also, updated education and training with approaches that utilize technologies are provided to equip workers with skills needed in the emerging economy.

“While we recognize the rapidly changing world of work and welcome pioneering new technologies, new jobs, and opportunities, we must bear in mind that those who will be affected by the transition are the least equipped, or vulnerable workforce that need our support. They must be equipped with proper skills and provided social protection policies to address market imperfections,” Lagunzad said. (DOLE PR)