Why it matters:
The Council emphasized that a rapidly evolving global economy and technological transformation — especially the rise of AI — demands immediate, systemic action to align the country’s education and workforce development systems.
“Our goal is simple—create real opportunities for Filipinos to thrive in a fast-changing world,” said Sabin Aboitiz, PSAC strategic lead convenor and Aboitiz Group president and CEO.
“Through stronger collaboration between the private sector and government, we can turn our shared vision into action.”
National AI upskilling roadmap at the core
At the heart of PSAC’s proposals is the National AI Upskilling Roadmap, a flagship initiative aimed at preparing every Filipino — from students to professionals — for an AI-powered world. The plan will address foundational digital literacy for all, as well as advanced AI training for high-skill sectors.
The Council urged the immediate rollout of the roadmap, with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and the Analytics & AI Association of the Philippines (AAP) proposed as co-leads.
The plan would be integrated into the National AI Strategy of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and aligned with EDCOM 2’s National Education and Workforce Development Plan (NatPlan).
“The AI tsunami is no longer coming — it is already here,” said Fred Ayala, PSAC Education and Jobs Committee Co-Lead. “And in a country where millions risk being left behind by automation, misinformation, and digital exclusion, the National AI Upskilling Roadmap is an urgent necessity.”
“This is about empowering every Filipino, regardless of age or background, with the skills and confidence to survive, thrive, and lead in an AI-driven world. We cannot afford to wait,” Ayala added.
Proposed Cabinet cluster, one-stop shop for industry growth
To ensure inter-agency coherence, PSAC is recommending the issuance of an Executive Order to create a Cabinet Cluster on Education, comprising DepEd, CHED, and TESDA. This will support implementation of reforms under EDCOM 2 and the NatPlan.
Additionally, PSAC called for a “One-Stop Shop” initiative involving the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), DTI, and other agencies to reduce regulatory hurdles and accelerate the growth of industries such as semiconductors, electronics, and smart manufacturing.
SHS work immersion, job fairs, and civil service upskilling
The Council also highlighted ongoing programs that are already driving results:
The Senior High School (SHS) Enhanced Work Immersion Program, developed with DepEd and PCORP, achieved a 96- percent completion rate in its mini pilot and is launching a full pilot in SY 2025–2026.
The SM J.O.B.S. initiative, in partnership with DOLE, helped over 32,000 job seekers and resulted in nearly 5,000 on-the-spot hires during 48 simultaneous job fairs on Labor Day and Independence Day.
The Digital Leadership Training Program for civil servants aims to train 50,000 learners by 2027. Training is being delivered by the Civil Service Institute, DICT, and private sector institutions Asia Pacific College and Mapúa University. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
