President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. on Friday vowed continued support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and skills training programs, aiming to expand job opportunities for Filipinos amid rapid technological changes in the workplace.
Speaking at the launch of the Trabaho at Negosyo program in Pasay City, Marcos reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to reskilling and upskilling initiatives, emphasizing the government’s role in helping workers adapt to industries increasingly shaped by digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI).
“Today, we live in a very uncertain world. What many of us have studied and developed a decade—or even just a couple of years ago—are sometimes no longer relevant,” Marcos said.
“Traditional jobs are transforming. The skills that were once optional, now they are essential,” he added.
The President highlighted that his administration is expanding programs on reskilling, upskilling, and enterprise-based training, designed to equip potential workers with skills tailored to industry needs.
“We equip our people not only to survive but to succeed in this changing world,” he said.
He added, "Through the advocacy of GoNegosyo, we promote a positive mindset towards business, not as a last resort but as a strong complement to our collective role in nation building.”
“Truly, we cannot diminish the role of the private sector in helping the government address employment gaps from identifying skills needed by industry to easing the path of doing business in our country,” the President emphasized.
The Trabaho at Negosyo launch also featured a job fair connecting jobseekers with employers across various sectors. The event brought together key public and private stakeholders to expand employment opportunities, support MSME growth, and provide a platform for direct engagement between businesses and potential employees.
“Naniniwala ako, kayang makasabay naman ang mga Pilipino. Alam naman natin na sa kabila ng mga hamon, maabilidad at madiskarte ang ating mga kababayan. Marunong tayong maghanap ng paraan,” Marcos said.
The program provides learning sessions with industry experts and thought leaders, one-stop government services for pre-employment assistance, and advisory support from agencies including the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), TESDA, and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).
Marcos cited recent employment statistics, noting that over 2,300 job fairs nationwide last year helped more than 74,000 jobseekers secure employment, while 47 job fairs held this January alone resulted in over 2,400 hires.
The President has encouraged job seekers to take advantage of the free mentorship and upskilling offered by a non-profit organization.
“Kaya hinihikayat ko po kayong lahat dito na pakinabangan ang learning session. Gamitin po ninyo ang kaalaman mula doon upang mapalakas pa ang kakayahan ninyo dito sa trabaho at negosyo,“ he said.
“Because when we build skills, we build confidence. When we create jobs, we restore the dignity of our people. And when we strengthen our economic foundations, we build a stronger nation for tomorrow,” Marcos concluded.
The launch brings together key public-private stakeholders to expand job opportunities for communities, support upskilling and reskilling for MSMEs, and create a dynamic platform where job seekers can connect directly with businesses.
