National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan on Wednesday lauded the enactment of the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act, saying this would help the development agenda of the government.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the law on Sept. 27, 2023.
The Trabaho Para sa Bayan (TPB) Plan aims to address unemployment, underemployment, youth unemployment, the increasing precarity and informality of working arrangements, the reintegration of overseas Filipino workers and other challenges in the labor market.
“We support the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act as it contributes to the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, which aims to increase employability, expand access to employment opportunities, and achieve shared labor market governance,” Balisacan said in a statement.
The plan will also focus on improving the employability and competitiveness of Filipino workers through upskilling and reskilling initiatives. It will also provide support for micro, small, and medium enterprises and industry stakeholders.
The TPB Inter-Agency Council (IAC), chaired by Balisacan, will conduct a comprehensive analysis of the employment situation and labor market in the country. The council will also ensure the effective use of resources, harmonizing and complementing all governmental efforts.
It will also assist local government units in planning, devising and implementing employment generation and recovery plans and programs within their respective localities, ensuring they are aligned with the TBP Plan.
“With the passage of the TPB, this will facilitate stronger coordination and partnership among relevant agencies and stakeholders for the efficient implementation of employment programs,” Balisacan said.
The plan serves as the government’s master plan for employment generation and recovery.