Employers agree they need to reskill and upskill their workforce to future-proof their businesses and adapt to evolving technological developments such as automation and artificial intelligence (AI).
Ironically, the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) wants the taxpayers to shoulder the cost of the process and is asking the government for incentives and subsidies to embrace AI and digital technologies.
“(G)overnment must provide incentives and subsidies for businesses that adopt advanced technologies and sustainability mechanisms, providing training programs for their workers to acquire relevant skills,” ECOP said Conference Resolutions passed during the 45th National Conference of Employers (NCE) at The Manila Hotel on Wednesday.
ECOP said incentives for training programs would help businesses equip their workers with relevant skills to adapt to new technologies. The group said technologies such as AI and machine learning (ML) are reshaping workplace processes that need extensive reskilling of workers.
It added that technological advancements and challenges, such as climate change and geopolitical shifts, require a coordinated effort to support businesses and employees.
Moreover, ECOP outlined other critical resolutions during the 45th NCE.
ECOP also called on the government, academe, and educational institutions to focus on developing essential life, technological, and soft skills, particularly for the youth and underserved sectors. It said this educational push is critical for preparing the workforce for future job demands.
To address technological, climate, and geopolitical disruptions, ECOP is pushing for national resilience programs, social protection mechanisms, and transition strategies designed to support workers and employers during periods of significant change.
ECOP, likewise, emphasized the importance of bipartism, tripartism, and social dialogue in tackling workplace issues.
Collaboration among employers, employees, and government stakeholders is crucial for job generation, fair compensation, and long-term enterprise sustainability.
Furthermore, ECOP stressed the need for the government to adhere to tripartism principles when appointing members to tripartite bodies. It said that ensuring all stakeholders have a voice in decision-making processes is vital for a balanced and fair labor market.
Meanwhile, ECOP reaffirmed its commitment to implementing these resolutions with all social partners.