The Philippines and Papua New Guinea are exploring a new technical cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening labor relations, expanding skills development opportunities, and improving labor market information systems.

Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Francis Tolentino discussed the proposed collaboration with Papua New Guinea Ambassador to the Philippines Stephen Pokanis during a meeting at the DOLE Central Office in Intramuros, Manila, on Thursday, October 29.

The meeting focused on opportunities to deepen bilateral cooperation in employment-related programs, particularly workforce training, skills enhancement, and access to technical development initiatives.

Tolentino raised the possibility of establishing a new framework for technical cooperation that would support skills development and improve access to training opportunities.

The proposed partnership would also focus on strengthening labor market information systems to facilitate the exchange of employment-related data and support workforce planning.

The discussions reflected efforts by both countries to identify areas of mutual cooperation in addressing labor market needs and developing workforce capabilities.

While the two sides explored possible areas of collaboration, no formal agreement was announced following the meeting.

Further discussions are expected to determine the scope and implementation of any future technical cooperation arrangement between the Philippines and Papua New Guinea.