Philippine energy, transport sectors told: 'Re-skill’ workers hit by environment push

The Philippine government is prioritizing reskilling workers in the energy and transport sectors, whose jobs are at risk due to the country’s transition to a net-zero economy, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said on Wednesday.

In a statement, Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga emphasized the need to equip the workforce with skills for emerging industries during the launch of the Just Transition Program in Quezon City on Oct. 2, 2024.

The energy and transport sectors contribute 56 percent of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions, the department pointed out.

Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga

The Environment and Natural Resources chief wants energy and transport industries to re-skill workers affected by climate-friendly technologies. 

As the Philippines shifts towards sustainable practices, Loyzaga stressed the importance of minimizing the negative impact on vulnerable workers.

"We must prepare our workforce with the necessary skills for opportunities in renewable and climate-friendly technologies," she said.

The Just Transition Program, supported by the Asian Development Bank, aims to foster inclusive development by helping conventional industries adapt and creating new industries aligned with the net-zero goal.

National agencies, including the DENR, Department of Energy, Department of Labor and Employment, and Department of Transportation, will lead consultations to shape a national just transition framework and roadmap.

The initiative reflects the country’s commitment to reducing emissions while ensuring that affected workers and communities are supported through the transition to a low-carbon, sustainable economy.