DTI Expands SkillsUpNet PH to Boost Workforce in High-Growth Industries

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) launched the SkillsUpNet Philippines (SUN PH) Phase 2, an initiative that seeks to equip Filipino workers with industry-specific skills for high-growth industries.

Building on the achievements of its first phase, which trained over 1,500 workers from June 2021 to December 2023, Phase 2 significantly expands its reach and focus. In partnership with the Asian Development Bank and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, the SUN PH Phase 2 will deliver specialized training in key sectors.

These sectors include creative industries, such as animation, agri-based industries like coffee and bamboo production, as well as renewable energy, electric vehicles, advanced manufacturing and robotics, solar energy, logistics, supply chain management, information technology and business process management, construction, and tourism.

This employer-led skills development program provides competitive grants to networks of 10 local enterprises. These networks collaborate to deliver workforce training in various regions of the country.

“We need to develop specific skills. We can no longer remain on the general side because it is difficult for them to find jobs without specialized expertise. Thus, this effort focuses on enhancing worker skills, in line with the core of the Philippine Skills Framework—an initiative led by our Department,” Secretary Roque said.

The trade chief further highlighted that the Philippine Skills Framework complements the Philippine Qualifications Framework by defining the skills and competencies required across industries. This framework aligns our training programs with global job market demands to ensure the employability of Filipino workers.

“Under President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s Bagong Pilipinas Agenda, we strongly believe that a skilled workforce is the backbone of our economy. Let us all work together to contribute to strengthening the skills of the Filipino workforce, preparing them to conquer the thriving and emerging industries both locally and globally,” Secretary Roque concluded.

The DTI-Philippine Trade Training Center leads the implementation of SUN PH, with support from the Resource Generation and Management Service. To ensure seamless execution at the regional level, designated regional focal persons act as key coordinators, facilitating communication, and effective regulation of SUN PH programs nationwide.