Mechanisms in place to sustain ‘ber months’ jobs
By Chloe Mari A. Hufana, Reporter
IN RESPONSE to shifting employment trends, the Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) is focusing on preparing the Filipino workforce to keep them employable after the holidays when demand tend to be seasonal or project-based.
“What we’re trying to do on the supply side for our workers is ensure that even if jobs become flexible, with seasonal or project-based roles, it’s important that they remain employable. They need to have the right skills so the market can easily absorb them,” Patrick P. Patriwirawan, Jr., director of the Bureau of Local Employment, told BusinessWorld on the sidelines of an event in mixed English and Filipino.
“That’s why…we continue to strengthen our upskilling and reskilling efforts, especially in partnership with [the] Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, aligning educational requirements with [technical and vocational courses],” he added.
In terms of supporting micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), to generate more jobs, the department is amplifying its financial support to fund their activities through capacity development, product development, and just transition measures, he added.
He said the department is currently lobbying private firms to sustain the jobs created during the holidays.
“We’re trying to coordinate and collaborate with industry associations and other government agencies that directly connect with our MSMEs. The private sector is really important for us to ensure that this program is utilized and truly benefits these enterprises,” he said.
He noted a need to strengthen the partnership between DoLE and industry associations to reach MSMEs within their supply chains that stand to benefit from the adjustment measures program.
The Philippine Statistics Authority earlier this month said it is expecting an uptick in employment during the “ber months” as companies try to meet increased consumer demand and prepare for the holiday season.
Historically, businesses across various sectors, particularly retail, hospitality, and logistics, ramp up hiring in the last quarter of the year to handle the surge in activities and customer transactions.
Meanwhile, Federation of Free Workers President Jose Sonny G. Matula reminded employers to ensure fair pay for workers as this could help boost the economy during the season.
“As the holiday season approaches, we remind employers that the 13th month pay and bonuses will boost workers’ take-home pay, leading to increased demand for goods and services,” he said in a Viber message.
“Higher wages during this season will benefit not just workers but also the economy, as workers are key consumers.”
