CLARK, PAMPANGA – The Institute for Labor Studies (ILS), the policy research and advocacy arm of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), reaffirmed its commitment to advancing inclusive employment strategies as it joined the World Association of Public Employment Services–Asia-Pacific Regional Conference (WAPES-APRC) 2025, held on 6-7 November 2025 in Clark, Pampanga.

The two-day conference, hosted by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) under the leadership of Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma, served as a strategic platform for sharing best practices, forging partnerships, and addressing emerging challenges in public employment services (PES) across the Asia-Pacific region. This initiative aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s vision to strengthen PESOs nationwide and ensure that employment services remain responsive to the evolving world of work.

With the theme “The Future of Work: Inclusive Public Employment Services Adapting to Demographic Realities in the Asia-Pacific,” the event gathered WAPES member countries, government officials, and key stakeholders to explore solutions for demographic shifts, technological advancements, and workforce transitions.

In a video message, President Marcos, Jr. underscored the vital role of PESOs in connecting jobseekers with opportunities that match their skills and aspirations. “Our path is clear under the banner of Bagong Pilipinas: align national plans with local delivery, strengthen facilitation in communities, schools, and training centers, keep platforms useful, and make job fairs regular and accessible,” President Marcos, Jr. said.

During the event, Secretary Laguesma echoed the call for global collaboration, stressing the importance of learning from international experiences. “Itong talakayan na ito ay pagsi-share ng mga impormasyon, mga best practices na pwede (sigurong) ma-adapt ng Pilipinas o kaya naman yung mga best practices ng Pilipinas ay ma-consider din ng ibang mga bansa… layunin nga ay tingnan kung paano i-address yung mga transformation, pagbabago sa world of work, yung may kinalaman sa technological advancement, AI, digitalization, kasama din yung may kinalaman sa demography.”

The conference featured resource persons from WAPES member countries and the International Labour Organization (ILO), fostering dialogue on strategies to improve job matching, enhance workforce development, and promote inclusive employment policies. Also in attendance were DOLE officials and PESO Managers Association of the Philippines representatives.

The ILS provided technical support in organizing the event, reinforcing its role in shaping evidence-based policies that respond to labor market trends and global employment challenges.

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