Marcos inks law on enterprise-based training

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. signed the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) Framework on Thursday. 

A priority measure of the Marcos administration, Republic Act No. 12063 aligns with the government’s efforts to strengthen, rationalize, and harmonize various enterprise-based training modalities under one framework. 

In his speech during the ceremonial signing of the new law, Marcos said the EBET would provide Filipino workers with accessible and relevant skills training that ''bridges individuals’ capabilities with industry demands.''

“By opening pathways to professional growth,  employment opportunities, and entrepreneurship, we are answering the call for quality employment and fostering a globally competitive workforce,” Marcos said.

The new law will strengthen partnerships with the private sector as the latter will play a crucial role in ensuring that the workforce is properly equipped with the right skills to meet the demands of the industry, according to the Chief Executive.

This aims to address job-skills mismatch, emphasizes collaboration among stakeholders, and recognizes the indispensable role of the private sector in driving technical-vocational education and enterprise-based training programs or those being implemented in partnership with companies and firms. 

Employment trends

Marcos is optimistic that the new law will strengthen the workforce by focusing on upskilling and development.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has released the latest Labor Force Survey, ''reflecting positive employment and unemployment trends under the Marcos administration.''

“I’m happy to note that our employment and unemployment rates improved in the past three months. With this law, I’m confident that we will be able to sustain and further improve these numbers,” Marcos said.

“By establishing a framework on career advancement and industry-relevant skills, this law directly addresses the issues on the lack of formal training and skill mismatches, ensuring that every Filipino can contribute and benefit from our nation’s growth,” he added. 

The PSA noted that the number of unemployed Filipinos decreased to 1.89 million in September this year from 2.07 million in August.

Training

The General EBET Programs will focus on fundamental and mid-level skills, offering participants practical training that will prepare them for immediate employment opportunities within six months.

For those seeking advancement, the EBET’s Apprenticeship Programs offer specialized training to build higher-level competencies.

Marcos said the new law would also support micro and small enterprises by introducing EBET support integrators who will guide these small businesses in analyzing both market trends, designing training plans, and organizing necessary documentation.

''This targeted assistance will make it possible for even the smallest businesses to provide high-quality, industry-aligned training, empowering them to uplift their communities and the economy as a whole,'' Marcos said. 

In the Senate, Senator Joel Villanueva was the principal author of the measure while Cagayan de Oro 2nd district Representative Rufus Rodriguez and CIBAC Party-list Representative Eddie Villanueva were authors in the House of Representatives.

–VAL, GMA Integrated News