Business Bayani PH

Three big business groups in the Philippines are teaming up for a massive job-creation campaign starting this January. The Employers’ Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), and the Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. (PHILEXPORT) are launching “Project Jobs” to generate more than one million jobs in about a year.

Spearheaded by ECOP president Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr., the initiative, initially planned in 2021, is now a reality despite challenges from the pandemic and changes in national leadership. Ortiz-Luis stressed the collaboration among ECOP, PCCI, and PHILEXPORT, all committed to addressing the urgent need for more jobs.

The ECOP-led Project Jobs team is about to set up, along with a digital platform guiding jobseekers. Ortiz-Luis highlighted meticulous planning and several meetings, with member companies ready to host joint job fairs as a crucial part of Project Jobs.

“Our member companies will soon conduct joint job fairs (as part of the initiative). There are also plans to hold training and seminars to ensure that potential hires are qualified (for the jobs to be offered),” Ortiz-Luis told the Philippine News Agency, the country’s official news network.

Emphasizing Project Jobs’ unique approach, Ortiz-Luis aims to target the informal sector, representing 86% of the country’s workforce. The focus is on giving opportunities to qualified workers who, despite skills, have not worked for a company. The goal is to bring these workers into the formal sector for stability and growth.

According to Ortiz-Luis, Project Jobs stands out because it specifically aims to reach individuals in the informal sector of the workforce, which constitutes a significant portion (86%) of the country’s workers. The initiative seeks to provide opportunities for qualified individuals in this informal sector, offering them a chance to transition into the more stable formal sector of employment.

A significant endorsement comes from the influential SM Group, known for its diverse retail businesses. Teresita Sy-Coson, vice chairman of SM Investments Corporation, strongly supports the private sector-led jobs campaign. She commits the backing of companies under the SM banner to ensure the success of Project Jobs.

Looking ahead, Ortiz-Luis mentioned that after reaching the one million jobs goal, the allied business groups may maintain the Project Jobs team as a permanent office. This office would continue to support member companies by helping with talent sourcing and cultivation.

In the face of economic challenges and the pandemic, Project Jobs stands as a beacon of hope, set to transform employment by providing numerous job opportunities. 

The collaboration among these influential business organizations signifies a united effort to not only address unemployment but also connect deserving workers with promising opportunities. As the initiative gains momentum, it reflects the resilience and determination of the private sector to bring positive change to the nation’s workforce.◼