The Department of Education (DepEd) has strengthened its partnership with the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham) to help close the gap between classroom learning and real workplace skills.

“We want every graduate to have a fighting chance when they finally test the waters of the real world,” Education Secretary Sonny Angara said during AmCham’s General Membership Meeting on Wednesday.

Angara also urged companies to take part in curriculum refinement, expand work immersion opportunities, and co-create programs that reflect actual industry needs.

“If we want a stronger education system, DepEd must work hand in hand with the private sector," the DepEd chief added.

Angara noted that while reforms are underway—including the rollout of the Strengthened Senior High School Program, increased school operations funding, expanded work immersion hours, the integration of tech-voc elements, and efforts to modernize textbooks and foundational learning—these initiatives can only reach full impact with industry participation.

He pointed to ongoing partnerships with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and private companies as proof that multi-sectoral engagement can raise the quality of education and better align it with labor market demands. But he underscored that more companies are needed to scale these efforts nationwide.

“My notebook—and my team—are ready to list down every company and organization interested in partnering with us,” Angara told AmCham members. “An agency that actively seeks partnerships is not showing weakness; it is standing in a position of strength.”

He also cited DepEd’s active involvement with the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) Jobs Committee through the Private Sector Jobs and Skills Corporation (PCORP), which supports work immersion, teacher training, curriculum alignment, and nationwide job matching to smoothen school-to-work transitions.

DepEd highlighted areas where AmCham companies can directly contribute: co-developing STEM and digital skills programs, supporting teacher training, offering industry-grade learning tools, embracing the Adopt-a-School Program, and significantly increasing available work immersion slots for senior high school students.

Angara also reaffirmed DepEd’s commitment to preparing learners for an economy shaped by rapid technological change, automation, and evolving global trade.

“As partners in the industry, you understand better than anyone how we can anticipate the future of the workforce,” he said.

“Let us open more doors—more pathways where students can pursue what they truly aspire for in life," the DepEd chief added.