Trisha Anne Segumban 

Young workers in the Philippines are now demanding flexible work arrangements and digitally driven roles, a Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) official said on June 26.

Photo Courtesy of InCorp Philippines.

DOLE Undersecretary Carmela Torres highlighted the shift in youth employment preferences during the launch of the “Advancing Digital and Green Skills for Youth in ASEAN” project held in Manila.

She said young Filipinos are seeking jobs that offer flexibility, digital engagement, and opportunities to contribute to sustainability. 

“We are observing a dynamic shift where young people are increasingly seeking not just any job, but meaningful work that aligns with evolving global demands,” Torres said. 

She noted that the government is adjusting its training and employment strategies to better prepare youth for roles in the green and digital sectors.

Torres explained that these strategies include upskilling programs that focus on areas such as digital marketing, software development, data analytics, and climate-resilient construction. 

According to the April 2025 DOLE data, there are 6.415 million youth in the labor force, with an employment rate of 88.5 percent. 

While the youth employment rate remains high, Torres emphasized the need to improve job quality and adaptability to modern demands. 

The “Advancing Digital and Green Skills for Youth in ASEAN” project is a regional initiative supported by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Korea Partnership Programme. 

It aims to accelerate the shift of the Southeast Asian construction sector toward sustainability while equipping young people with critical digital and green skills. 

Khalid Hassan, director of the International Labor Organization (ILO) Country Office for the Philippines, said youth skills development is vital to building a sustainable and inclusive future. 

DOLE said employers are encouraged to offer mentorship and adopt flexible, results-based work arrangements. 

Torres emphasized that the future of work is not just about technology, but about aligning with values, sustainability, and inclusion.