The newly established Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) on Monday, May 5th, unveiled the Trabaho Para sa Bayan (TPB) Plan 2025-2034, the Philippines’ first comprehensive decade-long strategy for labor market development.
This landmark initiative establishes a strategic master plan aimed at fostering job creation, transforming the labor market, and promoting inclusive workforce development over the next ten years. The TBP Plan aligns with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 and the long-term vision of AmBisyon Natin 2040.
The launch is particularly significant following the recent enactment of the Economy, Planning, and Development Act (Republic Act No. 12145), which restructured the National Economic and Development Authority into the DEPDev. This reform is intended to enhance the government’s capacity for strategic planning and consistent long-term policymaking.
DEPDev Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, the country’s chief economist, stated, “This transformation strengthens our mandate, allowing us to integrate diverse socioeconomic goals into a cohesive and forward-looking strategy that truly benefits all Filipinos. The DEPDev is committed to proactively developing policies and programs that ensure sustainable and inclusive economic growth, generate quality jobs, and cultivate a competitive workforce.”
He further emphasized the evolving landscape of the Philippine labor market, shaped by automation, digitalization, and emerging technologies, which present new economic challenges. Long-term pressures such as climate change and demographic shifts also significantly impact labor market dynamics.
“These trends highlight the urgent need for adaptable policies that promote economic growth and provide crucial support to Filipino workers navigating these changes,” Balisacan added. “Through our collective efforts, we will build an inclusive, efficient, and dynamic labor market where Filipinos can access meaningful, quality jobs, enabling them to achieve a matatag, maginhawa, at panatag na buhay (stable, comfortable, and peaceful life).”
The Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act (Republic Act No. 11962), which mandated the creation of this national employment master plan, was signed into law on September 27, 2023.
