The Bureau of Local Employment (BLE) participated in a webinar entitled “The Future of Work: Demand-Driven LUCs, the Changing World of Work and Global Labor Market” organized by the Asian Institute of Management in partnership with the Commission on Higher Education on 28 February 2023.

The session was part of the CHED-AIM Global Academic Leadership Program Cohort 4 — a platform for industry experts, government officials, and other lead domain experts to share insights and discuss strategies on how to prepare for the changing landscape of work, especially in light of a post-COVID-19 economy. 

BLE Director Patrick P. Patriwirawan, Jr. discussed the initiatives and programs of the Department of Labor and Employment aimed at improving the skills and employability of the country’s workforce, including youth employability, skills development, and professional development programs. He emphasized that the DOLE remains committed to supporting the needs of workers and employers in the country, especially as they navigate the challenges brought about by the pandemic.

“We believe that by investing in our workers’ skills and knowledge, we can create a workforce that is better equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly changing job market,” Director Patriwirawan, Jr. said.

He also shared how participating Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs) and Local Government Units (LGUs) can re-examine their role in the age of digital transformation, how they can navigate the world of work in the 21^st century through timely and relevant labor market information, and how LMI can be leveraged towards efficient and effective local development planning. 

Director Patriwirawan, Jr.’s session which was moderated by Former DOLE Secretary Nieves R. Confesor, is part of an online program that aims to equip LUCs and LGUs with concepts, frameworks, principles, and innovative tools that will assist them to perform their functions for all intents and purposes. DOLE’s participation in the webinar demonstrated its continued efforts to collaborate with key stakeholders in promoting decent work and creating opportunities for all Filipinos.

The webinar was attended by over 50 participants from different LGUs and LUCs nationwide. 

For more information about BLE’s programs and services, please visit www.ble.dole.gov.ph.