The Human Capital and Resources (HCR) Committee of the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) of the Philippines held its committee meeting, entitled “Lifelong Learning: Future of Work in the Philippines”, last March 17, 2022.
While technological advances, demographic shifts, and globalization consistently transform the world of work and introduce new opportunities, these change drivers also pose challenges for workers to have adequate access to decent work and for businesses to adapt to the changing environment in a sustainable manner. The COVID-19 pandemic is a change accelerator that spawned serious disruptions in the world of work, resulting in further aggravation of prevailing disparities in the social system. Hence, the meeting discussed the impact of the future of work on skills needed by employees and businesses. Furthermore, the importance of lifelong learning and how it helps in transitioning to a new work environment was also tackled.
AmCham Philippines Executive Director Mr. Ebb Hinchliffe and HCR Committee Co-Chair Mr. Ernie Cecilia gave the audience warm words of welcome. Following that, Ms. Jemellene Baluyot from British Embassy Manila and Ms. Katherine Brimon from the International Labor Organization gave a brief introduction on the Lifelong Learning Development Framework.
Ms. Irene Isaac, National Consultant of SFP Philippines, graced the event as its keynote speaker and gave a comprehensive review of the topic. She started her presentation by discussing the target areas of the Lifelong Learning Project–equity, quality, relevance, and cost-effectiveness. She explained that the Lifelong Learning Project actualized lifelong learning principles through coherent pathways and credit grants for formal, non-formal, and informal qualifications gained through various skills development modes. In addition, key action areas were also identified–policies and strategies for equitable access to skills and lifelong learning opportunities for the marginalized and vulnerable population; effective governance and quality assurance system participated in by industry and worker organizations; and inclusive, flexible, and innovative learning options.
During the open forum moderated by Mr. Cecilia, questions which revolved around the role of enterprises in lifelong learning, as well as legislation and policies required to achieve the goal were addressed accordingly by Ms. Isaac. Once all questions were answered, Ms. Grace Sorongon, Co-Chair of the HCR Committee and Senior Vice President and Managing Director of John Clements, wrapped up the session with her closing remarks.
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