Women's labor force participation has seen a significant increase, from 49.3 percent in 2024 to 52.9 percent, according to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said it validates DOLE's efforts to create decent, productive, and equitable work opportunities for all.

However, Laguesma recognized the challenges, particularly the decline in women's participation in manufacturing, professional services, and construction jobs, which he pointed out necessitate targeted interventions to bolster these sectors.

"Addressing these challenges is a priority, alongside fostering an environment that attracts investment and innovation," he added.

Further, Laguesma stated that the recent Labor Force Survey, which showed a slight decrease in the employment rate to 4.3 percent from 4.5 percent, "presents a promising outlook for" the country's labor market.

Similarly, the employment rate in the Philippines rose to 95.7 percent from 9.5 percent, while underemployment decreased to 13.3 percent from 13.7 percent.

The services sector remains a key driver of employment, accounting for a 61.6 percent share of total employment, according to the DOLE chief.

Significant growth is also observed in agriculture, forestry, wholesale and retail trade, and the accommodation and food service sectors.

Strengthening labor market

To further strengthen the labor market, Laguesma vowed to continue promoting Trabaho sa Pilipinas through monthly or bi-monthly job fairs, linking vulnerable groups to sustained income opportunities and supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through accelerated adjustment measures program (AMP) initiatives in the countryside.

He also assured that the digitalization of public employment services (PES) will be pursued to enhance accessibility, streamline processes, and increase efficiency for job seekers and employers via platforms like PhilJobNet and the PESO Employment Information System (PEIS)

"Additionally, our partnership with JobStreet Philippines, Inc., formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement during Career Con 2025, underscores our shared commitment to connecting Filipino workers with meaningful employment opportunities," Laguesma continued.

"This collaboration emphasizes the importance of labor market information sharing, streamlining job fair processes, and advancing youth employability programs," he added.

Among DOLE's initiatives are upskilling and reskilling programs to address the evolving needs of the labor market shaped by technology, globalization, and climate change.

Laguesma added that the Labor Department is also fostering international collaboration through initiatives like the ASEAN Workshop on Strengthening Labor Market Information and Digital Intermediaries, supported by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit and the International Labour Organization.

"With the recently signed Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for Republic Act 12063, the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) Framework Act, we are now poised to usher in a new era of aligning our educational and training programs with the dynamic needs of our industries," he added.

"This pivotal legislation will equip Filipino workers with the relevant skills they need to thrive in their chosen careers, tackling the persistent challenge of skills mismatch and fueling our nation's economic advancement," he explained.

Laguesma reaffirmed DOLE's commitment to advancing the local labor market through evidence-based strategies and a whole-of-government approach.

"We remain dedicated to prioritizing creation of quality jobs, supporting underemployed workers, and adapting to the changing labor landscape to ensure sustainable and inclusive growth."