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Philippines Information


Philippines Representative:
Marose C. Macaraan
University Counselor
De La Salle University College of Law
Philippines@AsiaPacificCDA.org

April 2023 Philippines Report

Situationer:

  • Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 - National Economic and Development Authority (Recent data on economic and labor market performance indicate a robust and sustained recovery, especially with the reopening of the economy and strong consumer demand. However, foremost among our challenges this year is the relatively high level of inflation) (https://neda.gov.ph/statement-of-neda-secretary-arsenio-m-balisacan-on-the-creation-of-the-inter-agency-committee-on-inflation-and-market-outlook/)
  • Goals and targets of the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 (https://pdp.neda.gov.ph/philippine-development-plan-2023-2028/)
    • Create more, better, and more resilient jobs. By 2028, the unemployment rate shall be within 4.0 to 5.0 percent, and the percentage of wage and salary workers in private establishments to total employed shall be within 53 to 55 percent.
    • Transform the production sectors through innovation. The Philippines aims to continue its progress among the innovation achievers of the region by ranking higher and within the top 33 percent of the Global Competitiveness Index by 2028.
    • Key Themes: Digitalization, Servification, Dynamic Innovation Ecosystem, Enhanced Connectivity, Greater collaboration between local and national government, partnership with the private sector (https://pdp.neda.gov.ph/philippine-development-plan-2023-2028/)
  • Release of Department Order No. 237 (Department of Labor and Employment) on the “Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 11165 Otherwise Known as the Telecommuting Act” (https://www.dole.gov.ph/news/department-order-no-237-22-revised-implementing-rules-and-regulations-of-ra-no-11165-otherwise-known-as-the-telecommuting-act/)
  • Career Development Association of the Philippines, Inc. (CDAP) and Association of Placement Practitioners of Colleges and Universities (APPCUI) joint workshop on Innovating Student Career Journeys - April 13, 2023
  • Jobstreet Survey (hiring and recruitment site) (https://mb.com.ph/2023/01/21/jobstreet-ph-reveals-top-10-jobs-and-industries-to-apply-for-in-2023/)
    • The top 10 specializations are Customer Service, Finance–General/Cost Accounting, IT/Computer–Software, Clerical/Administrative Support, Human Resources, Marketing/Business Development, Education, Sales - Retail/General, Banking/Financial Services, and Sales – Corporate.
    • The top 10 in-demand roles that have the highest job posts recently are Customer Service Representative, Teacher, Administration Officer, Call Center Operator, Nurse, Software Engineer, Team Leader, Business Analyst, Sales Associate, and Engineer
    • JobStreet recently reported that the job market is back to the pre-pandemic level as more and more companies are gradually opening opportunities for jobseekers.
    • Industries with the most hirings: Call Center/IT-Enabled Services/BPO, Human Resources Management/Consulting, Education, Retail/Merchandise, Government/Defence, Computer/IT-Software, Manufacturing/Production, Electrical & Electronics, Banking/Financial Services, and Construction/Building/Engineering
    • Recommendations: Competition among talents is tougher, so jobseekers are encouraged to learn new skills and tools, rehearse for interviews, and put their best foot forward.

Implications:

  • The economy and labor market shows a sustained recovery with challenges related to inflation.
  • The released Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 aims to create resilient jobs and transform production sectors through innovation.
  • Focus on skills acquisition and retooling for jobseekers.
  • Innovations on career development programs at universities and colleges to prepare students for the evolving job market including training on job hunting.
  • Consideration for necessary skills for telecommuting jobs
  • Career development organizations can identify key strategic areas in relation to these new directions and challenges including
    • digitalizing career services,
    • effective communication and interpersonal skills,
    • supporting clients doing telecommuting work,
    • job search strategies in the now normal,
    • inclusive career development services and practices,
    • financial literacy and management.
  • Given these changes and innovations, some of the possible research areas that can be explored would be:
    • The impact of digitalization on job opportunities and employment
    • The effectiveness of telecommuting work in the now normal
    • The impact of the pandemic on the Philippine job market and the prospects of recovery

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November 2022 Philippines Report

SITUATION

  • Department of Health (DOH) Memorandum Order 2022-0433 on “Updated Guidelines on the Minimum Public Health Standards for the Continued Safe Reopening of Institutions” - September 13, 2022
    • Voluntary wearing of face mask in open spaces and non-crowded areas with good ventilation. However, immunocompromised, unvaccinated, partially vaccinated are encouraged to wear masks. Face masks shall continue to be worn in enclosed spaces
  • Inter-agency Task Force (IATF) for the management of emerging infectious diseases “Resolution number 168 Series of 2022” -posted September 23, 2022
    • Foreign nationals may enter the Philippines provided they comply with the applicable visa requirements and immigration entry and departure formalities; are fully vaccinated except only for minor children below 12 years of age traveling with their fully-vaccinated foreign parents
  • Department of Education (DepEd) Order No. 034 Series of 2022 “School calendar and activities for the school year 2022-2023” - July 11, 2022
    • Starting November 2, 2022 all public and private schools shall have transitioned to 5 days in person classes.
  • Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Order No. 02 Series of 2022 “Guidelines on the implementation of return to collegiate athletic competitions (R-CAC) during the Covid-19 Pandemic”
  • Career Development Association of the Philippines (CDAP) had the online conference with the theme Transforming Career Development Approaches: Adapting to Current Realities
  • Philippine Guidance and Counseling Association (PGCA) had their face-to-face conference at Boracay Island, Aklan with the theme Coming Together for Recalibrated Self-care and Renewed Wellbeing.

Implications

  • Gradual resumption of face to face activities in schools, universities and communities
  • Ease of doing business and holding of events and conferences
  • Learning sessions on safe return to school and work would help
  • An appreciation of doing hybrid events or classes

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May 2022 Philippines Report

Situationer:

  • Several areas were placed under Alert Level 1
  • Campaign rallies are being held in relation to the upcoming Philippine election on May 9, 2022
  • “There would be possible spikes in COVID19 cases but not as severe as what happened last January”
  • “Subvariants could spread quickly and increase rapidly but infections may drop as fast due to high vaccination rate”
  • “Automation of businesses brings about demand in tech jobs. Digitalization can add P5 trillion to the Philippines annual economic value by 2030”
  • “Importance of digital skill regardless of the profession”
  • APPCU webinar held last March 2022 – “Today’s Placement and Careers Services Office” discussing the issues, risks and challenges of HEIs

Recommendations:

  1. Upgrading skillset by focusing on digital skills
  2. Benchmarking on trends and effective delivery of career services
  3. Trends on employee assistance programs

References:

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February 2022 Philippines Report

Situationer:

*two-week growth rate and average daily attack rate have decreased in Metro Manila

* healthcare utilization rates have declined to less than 50 percent, with most persons infected with COVID-19 being quarantined at home instead

Department of Education

> commencement of progressive expansion phase of face-to-face classes for both public and private schools

> schools must be under alert levels 1 and 2

Commission on Higher Education

> gradual resumption of classes

> Alert level 2 can proceed with face to face classes anytime following government guidelines

> Medical and nursing students as vaccinators

Reopening the economy

> increase of venue capacities from 50% to 70%

II. Recommendations

  • Psychoeducation training programs on safe return to campus activities. Understanding the concept of liminal space.
  • Understanding and focusing career development programs on chaos theory of careers
  • Provision for career training programs for practitioners offering employee assistance programs
  • More topics on dealing with changes brought forth by industry 4.0

References:

  • https://doh.gov.ph/covid19tracker
  • https://www.deped.gov.ph/2022/02/02/on-the-expansion-phase-of-limited-face-to-face-classes/
  • https://interaksyon.philstar.com/trends-spotlights/2022/01/12/208439/ched-advisory-limited-in-person-classes-in-heis-under-alert-level-3-raises-eyebrows/
  • https://ched.gov.ph/medical-nursing-students-can-now-be-vaccinators/
  • https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1547424/no-vax-no-ride-policy-lifted-under-alert-level-2-says-ano

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November 2021 Philippines Report

Situationer:

  • DOH recorded 30,544 active cases with the majority of the patients exhibiting mild symptoms (18,553; 60.7%) while 1,291 patients are in critical condition (4.2%).
  • 65,764, 376 vaccinated; average daily doses 765, 422
  • Use of alert levels system for COVID19 response
  • Metro Manila under Alert Level 2 beginning November 5, 2021
    • Intrazonal and interzonal movement shall be allowed.
    • Business establishments have increased capacity (maximum 50% indoor; maximum 70% outdoor)
      • Visitor or tourist attractions such as libraries, archives, museums, galleries, exhibits, parks, plazas, public gardens, scenic viewpoints or overlooks, and the like;
      • Cinemas and movie houses;
      • Limited face-to-face or in-person classes for basic education subject to prior approval of the Office of the President;
      • Limited face-to-face or in-person classes for higher education and for technical-vocational education and training;
      • Licensure or entrance/qualifying examinations administered by their respective government agency, and specialty examinations authorized by the IATF subject to the health and safety guidelines as approved by the IATF;
  • Dine-in services of food preparation establishments such as kiosks, commissaries, restaurants, and eateries, subject to DTI sector-specific protocols;
  • Personal care establishments such as barbershops, hair spas, hair salons, and nail spas, and those offering aesthetic/cosmetic services or procedures, make-up services, salons, spas, reflexology, and other similar procedures including home service options, subject to the sector-specific protocols of the DTI
  • Traffic back to pre-pandemic level
  • Online job fairs
  • Employee Assistance Programs

Recommendations:

  1. Psychoeducation  and training on resiliency and help seeking behaviours as part of the return to school activities
  2. Awareness and upskilling in relation to industry 4.0
  3. Skills gap analysis 

References:

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August 2021 Philippines Report

COVID 19 Situationer

Situations in schools

  • Some schools have opened their school year this week, still utilizing the online platforms

Work Activities

  • Work from home arrangements are still in place
  • Authorized persons outside residence need to present documents so they can be allowed to pass through

Professional Development

  • There is still high consumption of online learning/training materials/sessions.
  • More presence of international speakers in the learning sessions.

Impact to careers and career educational programs

  • Universities have shifted to online career fairs or job expos
  • Internships are also being done online, is possible
  • Expressed difficulties in finding a job
  • Rise of online content creators

Impact to daily life

  • Online market transactions are the main platform for purchase of things
  • Deliveries of food and other items are mainstream
  • Businesses have transitioned to the use of online mechanisms
  • Rise of social learning groups
  • Presence of mental health advocacies and services
  • Growing interest on online investments and digital currencies
  • Inspiration from athletes in the Tokyo Olympics

Areas of opportunity for career services

  • Training on digital citizenship
  • Training and engagement with international speakers
  • Utilization of online learning groups for transfer of information
  • Use of apps in the delivery of careers services

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May 2021 Philippines Report 

by Marose Macaraan

COVID 19 Situation

  • National Capital Religion and some nearby areas (NCR plus bubble) were placed on stricter quarantine measures on March 2021-April 2021 due to the surge of cases. This has been lifted recently but border controls are still in place.
  • Curfews were put in place.
  • This affected places of recreation, entertainment, worship, dining and personal care services.

Situations in schools

  • Schools are still utilizing the online mode for the delivery of the classes.

Work Activities

  • Work from home arrangements is still in place.

Professional Development

  • High consumption of online learning/training materials/sessions.

Impact to Careers and Career Educational Programs

  • Universities are gradually shifting to online career fairs or job expos
  • Internships are also being done online, when possible

Impact to daily life

  • Online market transactions are the main platform for purchase of things
  • Deliveries of food and other items are mainstream
  • Businesses have transitioned to the use of online mechanisms
  • Rise of social learning groups

Areas of opportunity career services

  • Retooling and upskilling
  • Adopting an entrepreneurial mindset
  • Utilization of online learning groups for transfer of information

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February 2021 Philippines Report

by Marose Macaraan

Philippine COVID Situation

528, 853 – confirmed cases; 10874 deaths (as of Feb3, 2021) https://covid19.who.int/region/wpro/country/ph

General Community Quarantine is in place in the following areas: National Capital Region, Davao City, Batangas, Cordillera Administrative Region, Tacloban City, Davao del Norte, Lanao del Sur and Iligan City while Santiago City, Ormoc City and all other areas are placed under the Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ) until February 28, 2021 (https://pcoo.gov.ph/news_releases/metro-manila-davao-city-to-remain-gcq-starting-february-1/)

The Philippines will receive three million vaccine doses by end of February. The first to be inoculated will be the healthcare workers, government frontliners, uniformed personnel, poor population and other vulnerable sectors of the society. The next jab to be given on the second quarter will be the country’s priority sectors including economic frontliners and laborers such as drivers, food industry workers, social service workers and life support service workers (https://pcoo.gov.ph/news_releases/philippines-to-receive-three-million-vaccine-doses-by-end-february/)

The 4 Pillar Socioeconomic Strategy (https://www.dof.gov.ph/the-4-pillar-socioeconomic-strategy-against-covid-19/)

  • Pillar1: Emergency Support for vulnerable groups
  • Pillar 2: Marshalling resources to fight COVID 19
  • Pillar 3: Monetary actions and other financing support
  • Pillar 4: An economic recovery program to create jobs and sustain growth

https://www.dof.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/We-Will-Rise-As-One-brochure-as-of-Oct-30.pdf

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October 2020 Philippine Country Report

by Marose Macaraan

COUNTRY SITUATION

  • 373,144 COVID-19 cases (As of October 27, 2020)
  • DOH emphasized the need for compliance to and proper implementation of national guidelines at the local government level
  • Public transport has been made available
  • Places of worship is allowing 30% capacity
  • Businesses have opened on a limited capacity as well
  • Private schools have online classes, while public schools are using modules
  • Universities are transitioning to online job fairs
  • Some hotel facilities are currently being used for quarantine areas for OFWs
  • With the approval of the mental health law, there has been an increase in usage of EAPs for online counselling. There are more companies now offering EAPS.
  • Continuous increase in consumption of online training and certifications. There is preference for free trainings.
  • Increased collaboration between various organizations offering free trainings.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR CAREER ACTIVITIES

  • Opportunities for career conversations
  • Collaboration with various career and placement organizations about various topics and career (SFI, CDAP and APPCUI)
  • Collaboration with universities on new trends in career placements activities and services
  • Collaboration with various human resource practitioners on new trends in hiring, recruitment and talent development
  • Collaboration with organizations offering EAPs.
  • Opportunities for training university career practitioners with the new trends (e.g. software, placement programs and systems)
  • Providing information sessions for various career organizations on trends in hiring, recruitment and talent development

IMPLICATIONS

  • Use of platform, budget, marketing

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July 2020 Philippine Country Report

by Marose Macaraan

COUNTRY SITUATION

  • Most of the areas transitioned to general community quarantine
  • Areas where there are more cases remained under the enhanced community quarantine
  • Those GCQ areas shall observe the following:
    • Select workers will be allowed to go out and work in phases
    • Those aged below 21 and above 60, and high health risk individuals shall continue to stay at home
    • Partial opening of non-leisure shops and malls
      • Mandatory temperature check
      • Mandatory wearing of masks
      • Mandatory use of alcohol
    • Resumption of classes in higher education institutions
    • Resumption of priority and essential construction projects
    • Resumption of public transportation at a reduced capacity
    • Curfew for non-workers
    • Continued unhampered movement of goods.

IMPLICATIONS TO LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT: Highlights of the April 2020 Labor Force Survey (June 5, 2020)

  1. Unemployment rate rose to 17.7 percent accounting to 7.3 million unemployed Filipinos in the labor force in April 2020. This is a record high in the unemployment rate reflecting the effects of Corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) economic shutdown to the Philippine labor market.  Unemployment rate in January 2020 was 5.3 percent while in April 2019, it was recorded at 5.1 percent.
  2. Labor force participation rate among Filipinos 15 years and older is estimated at 55.6 percent in April 2020, the lowest in the history of Philippine labor market.
  3. Employment rate in April 2020 fell to 82.3 percent from 94.7 percent in  January 2020. In April 2019, it is posted at 94.9 percent. This translates to 33.8 million employed persons in April 2020 from 41.8 million in April 2019.
  4. Average number of hours worked per week also fell to 35.0 in April 2020, a drop from 41.8 hours per week in April 2019.
  5. Employed persons with job but not at work is reported at 38.4 percent or 13.0 million of the total employed.
  6. All regions reported double-digit unemployment rates. The highest unemployment rate was in Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARRM) at 29.8 percent. It is followed by Region III (Central Luzon) and Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) with unemployment rates recorded at 27.3 percent and 25.3 percent, respectively.
    • Demand for online professional development training programs
    • More focus on skills development
    • Leniency on license renewals of professionals
    • Up-skilling on use of technology to deliver various services (academe and business sectors)


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Singapore’s E2I Learning Visit to Manila

by Carla Siojo

The management team of e2i (Employment and Employability Institute) Singapore, https://e2i.com.sg/, was recently in the Philippines for a planning retreat at the Heritage Hotel, Manila, from July, 17-19, 2019. The Philippine’s Department of Labor and Employment, National Capital Region (DOLE-NCR)’s Senior Labor and Employment Officer, Ryan Delos Reyes, of the Employment Promotion and Workers Welfare Division, conducted one of the management team’s Learning Sessions.

Ryan Delos Reyes DOLE-NCR’s Learning Session addressed the employment climate of the Philippines, the government’s strategies to improve employment rate/reduce unemployment rate and the challenges for implementation. His comprehensive presentation also included information about Philippine culture and Filipino values. Overall, Ryan’s Learning Session was informative, engaging, and entertaining! Both a Q&A session and dinner followed; where conversation continued to focus on the employment climate in Manila and its similarities and differences to Singapore’s.

In addition to e2i Singapore’s CEO, Gilbert Tan, Deputy CEO, Vicky Wong, and their 22 team leads, Ryan Delos Reyes’ Learning Session participants also included our very own APCDA President, Carla Siojo, as well as APCDA Administrator, Emily Lizada. The photo is of Ryan opening the e2i Singapore Learning Session.

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Journey to Meaningful and Purposeful Careers in the Philippines

by Prof. Lucila O. Bance, PhD, RGC, RPsy Country Director for APCDA and Stephanie Anne C. Lu, MA, RPm, RGC Chairperson, Career Services University of Santo Tomas

The University of Santo Tomas is one of the Model Career Centers in the Philippines (USAID-STRIDE, 2018). With around 45,000 students, the university directs its efforts to realize its overarching objective: empowering Thomasians towards meaningful and purposeful careers. Having meaning and purpose in one's career is a product of self-discovery, informed decisions and application of one's strengths and skills. Their Career Services support the Academic Units of the University by providing additional learning experiences that promote students' self-discovery, encourage exploration of opportunities available to them and assist them in planning and realizing their desired career goals.

Fig. 1. Career Services Framework in UST with the Career Services' three main roles

Activities are aligned according to the roles of the Career Services team. In terms of Training for Career Services, the team offers the Thomasian the G.U.T.S., Gear-up Tools for Success or ThomGUTS Program. This ThomGUTS Program is a series of career seminars and workshops that run across all year levels with defined career themes, mock interview sessions, online résumé critiquing and the Career Ambassadors Program. Through the variety of ThomGUTS sessions, industry partners as well as alumni leaders in the field are engaged and bring back invaluable insights, tips and information to the students. Topics covered include Thomasian Identity, Career Exploration, Personality Development (e.g. Communication, teamwork and collaboration skills), Job Preparation and Management Skills, as well as Career Leadership. Mock Interview sessions and online résumé critiquing contributes to students' enhancement of job preparation and confidence-building. The Career Ambassadors Program empowers student volunteers to be leaders in facilitating career activities to their fellow students.

Career Services also serves as one of the windows through which industries can collaborate and build partnerships with the University. Contributing collaborations include Career Fairs, Employer Information Sessions and On-campus recruitment. Career Information is also provided among the students (e.g. job and internship opportunities and online resources and tools).

Fig. 2. Career Services in line with the identified core roles of the Career Services team

Integral to students' career development is their ability to process their experiences, set goals and overcome concerns that may block their progress. Career Counseling and Coaching, carried out by licensed counselors of the department, assist with experience processing. Career Coaching is a promising tool in promoting mental health in such a way that it focuses on inherent strengths, identification of solutions and expanding vision of oneself through dreams and aspirations.


Fig. 3. Career counseling and coaching as an integral part of the career services framework

Throughout all of the activities provided by Career Services, students come to understand that career planning is a lifelong journey wherein curiosity, persistence, flexibility, optimism and risk-taking are key attitudes that will enable them to achieve career success given the ever-changing landscape and transformation of the world of work and careers. Evaluation of the program is getting an overwhelming positive feedback with a good turnout of accumulated data on graduates' placement.

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Report on Career Development in the Philippines

by Lucila O. Bance

In response to the high incidence of youth unemployment in the country, the government approved a convergent program that aims to address the pressing issue of jobs-skills mismatch. A robust working group (WG) was established to develop an inter-agency Career Advocacy Plan intended to immerse parents and students in the realities of the labor market supplemented by the use of Phil Job Net and Labor Market Information (LMI). The WG consisted of the following: Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE); Department of Education (DepEd); Department of Science and Technology (DOST); Commission on Higher Education (CHED); Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA); and Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).

Additionally, the enhancement of academic-industry linkages has ensured that standards, policies and guidelines set by the government are regularly monitored through accreditation of academic programs for sustained implementation of career programs and services. Aside from the government's WG for Career Advocacy Plan, professional organizations do their significant part in the career development in the country, such as Philippine Guidance and Counseling Association of the Philippines (PGCA), Psychological Association of the Philippines (PAP), Career Development Association of the Philippines (CDAP), Association of Placement Practitioners of Colleges and Universities (APPCU) and Integrated Professional Counseling Association of the Philippines (IPCAP).

CDAP

Ms. Sonia Mendoza, MA, CDAP President

CDAP celebrated its Ruby Anniversary in its 40th Annual Conference last November 16-17, 2017 with the theme "Honoring the Past, Treasuring the Present and Transforming for the Future." International figures in Career Development from different countries shared their practices. Dr. Concepcion Umali, Dean International Academy of New Zealand, Dr. Richard Knowdell, President of Career Research and Testing, Inc., Dr. Brian Schwartz, Founder and Chairman, Suzhou Success Partners Management, Consulting Co., Mr. Allan Gatenby, Chair Institute of Career Certification International.

Filipino speakers also enticed the audience in listening and participating in the program with the following resource persons: Dr. Josefina Santamaria, CDAP Founding President, Dr. Luzviminda Guzman, Philippine Regulation Board of Guidance & Counseling Board Chairman, Atty. Pilar Almira, President, Cardinal Santos Medical Center, Mr. Ramon Segismundo, President, People Management Association of the Philippines, Dr. Imelda Villar, CPD Chair, Board of Psychology and last but not the least, Dr. Lucila Bance, Director, Counseling & Career Center, University of Santo Tomas.

The organization established partnership with Edukasyon.ph and contributed much on its nation-wide event, the Career Awareness and Readiness (CARES) Program with several runs in Mindanao, Visayas and Luzon. The program was nominated in the 14th TAYO (Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations) Awards.

CDAP also joined the Technical Working Group of SEAMEO INNOTECH and Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) for their career pathing and career mapping projects. CDAP also participated in PESO/DOLE Consultation and Orientation Seminars on youth employment. It prepared Motivational Training Program for students of Vittana, an NGO that provides educational assistance for youth. Through a partnership with Servicio Filipino, Inc. (SFI) Group of Companies, CDAP was additionally involved in various projects such as the Training of Career Advocates, PESO Managers, Learning Series for the Feeder Schools of Asia Pacific College.

SFI also prepared a KeyTrain program in developing foundational skills of 259 selected third year high school students in Bataan. Research showed significant improvement of participants' foundational workplace skills in Applied Mathematics, Locating Information, and Reading for Information, which have implications for education, career development as well as curriculum development. The assessment tool used is a comprehensive talent profile that identifies the key strengths and weaknesses of students, trainees and workforce in the context of their career preferences and workplace competencies. The results of this tool may be utilized for curriculum enhancement purposes and the creation/enhancement of career guidance programs and services that address the career-readiness skills of students.

CDAP's Mid-year Conference was held on May 24-25, 2018 at Hotel Benilde with the Theme: "Spectrum for Success: A Career Paradigm Shift for Philennials".

APPCU

Carla Siojo, MA, APPCU Vice-President

The 10th Anniversary and 8th Annual Convention of APPCU took place at St. Scholastica's College, Manila on 8-9 March 2018. The event convened placement practitioners, career guidance practitioners, guidance counselors, career guidance advocates from colleges and universities and HR practitioners from industry to increase their knowledge of workforce trends in this era of the 4th Industrial Revolution. Participants were exposed to learning sessions that aimed to hone and develop skills in personal branding, meta-coaching, networking and use of big data in order to efficiently and effectively perform their duties and responsibilities and improve existing career services.

The theme of the Convention, "10 to the Next 10: APPCU Surges Ahead!" affirmed the 10-year old existence of APPCU, and the challenge for the organization to surge forward to the next 10 years! The Convention also affirmed APPCU's commitment in developing 21st century skills of placement practitioners in order to remain relevant and effective in helping students transition from school to a competitive global workplace and in bridging the gap between the existing jobs and skills mismatch. The event was sponsored by ServeHappy Jobs and Globe Telecom, Inc.

The invited resource speakers from industry and academe for the 2-day event received excellent ratings from the participants. The speakers and topics included: Grace Abella-Zata, President, Corporate Executive Search, Inc., who talked about "Hiring Potential Talents for the Workforce"; Maria Luz C. Vilches, Ph.D., Vice President for the Loyola Schools, Atene de Manila University, who gave "A Response from the Academe on Preparing Potential Talents for the Workforce"; Tisha Rosales, Meta-Coach from BreakFree Workshop gave a plenary workshop on "Harnessing the Power of Corporate Personal Branding"; Julius Paras, Senior Vice President, Customer Engagement and Country Manager of Kalibrr, talked about "Making Big Data Work for You and gave Alumni Engagement Insights from the Ivy League"; Florence T. Ladion, RGC, Financial Consultant and Assistant Unit Manager at Prulife, UK, shared the importance of "Networking as an Art of Establishing Partnerships"; and Marie Geraldine R. Samson, Meta-Coach at BreakFree Workshop shared "The Basics of Meta-Coaching."

Overall, the Convention was informative, interesting and enriching. The knowledge and best practices shared by the resource speakers inspired the participants to improve their placement and career practice. The Convention also provided an avenue to connect and reconnect with those who work at colleges and universities and facilitate the nation's young people realizing meaningful employment.

Building a Model Counseling and Career Center in the Philippines by USAID STRIDE

Lucila O. Bance, PhD, Director, Counseling and Career Center, University of Santo Tomas

Three years ago, a Model Counseling and Career Center (CCC) in the Philippines was built to address the challenges and meet the needs of the 21st century and the directional goals of the University of Santo Tomas. The development was supported by a grant from the United States Agency for International Development, Science Technology Research for Innovation Development (USAID STRIDE). The strategic landscape, expectations and outlook for Counseling and Career Services evolved at a rapid rate and included the retooling of 43 guidance counselors and 4 staff (1 Office Secretary, 2 Psychometricians and 1 Associate for Career Placement ). The resultant structure is comprised of 2 major sub-units under the CCC: the Counseling Services Unit and the Career Services Unit.

The Counseling Services Unit takes care of ThomRISE (Thomasian Resources for Intensifying Student Empowerment) with programs on: Orientation and Information; Peer Assisted Study Success (PASS); Peer Facilitator Training; Academic Counseling; Personal, Emotional and Social Counseling; and Intervention Programs for Special Groups.

The Career Services Unit takes care of ThomGUTS (Thomasian Gear Up Tools for Success) and ThomCARE (Thomasian Career Readiness and Employment) with programs on: Career Exploration; Career Ambassadors; Career Counseling; Resume Clinic; Career E-Portfolio; CarSem (Career Seminars with Alumni and Industry Component); Life and Career Skills Development; Student Career Placement & Industry Partnerships; Mock Interviews; Career Fairs (On-Site Recruitment & Employers' Information Sessions); and Networking Sessions. Supported by a Psychological Testing and Assessment Committee, ThomACE (Thomasian Assessment towards Competence and Empowerment) takes care of the following activities: Personality & Skills Assessment and Psychological Testing, Interpretation and Counseling. The center is dedicated to deliver comprehensive and evidence-based counseling and career programs and services in collaboration with educators and administrators as well as engagement and strategic partnerships with business and community stakeholders to ensure students' academic, personal-social and career success.

The Counseling and Career Center, University of Santo Tomas, is recognized not only in the Philippines but in other countries around the globe. In April 2017, the Center's services were recognized during APCDA's annual conference which included representation from 23 countries. In June 2017, the platform was presented at the International Centre for Career Development and Public Policy (ICCDPP) held in Korea; with 29 participating countries.

In 2017-2018, USAID STRIDE consultants from William Davidson Institute (WDI) at the University of Michigan spearheaded a career caravan in the strategic areas in the Philippines (Cebu, Legaspi, Davao and Metro Manila) to showcase the roadmap to develop Model Counseling and Career Centers in the Philippines. Along with the all out support of the CCC team and the top administrators of the University of Santo Tomas, led by its Rector, Rev. Fr. Herminio V. Dagohoy, O.P., the platform aimed to educate future-ready, Filipino graduates by creating and transforming counseling and career centers for youth, the nation and the global community at large.

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The Philippines — a Haven of Festivals

by Aira Leigh C. Bagtas

If you visit the Philippines in spring or summer, you have your choice of "fun in the sun," or joining festivals or fiestas. Attending these celebrations not only ensures a good time (and a full stomach) but also provides a deeper insight into Philippine culture and traditions.

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Ateneans At The Vanguard Of Nation-Building

by Florence Ladion


In 1872, a 12 year old Jose Rizal entered the Ateneo Municipal de Manila (now the Ateneo de Manila University) where for the next five years, he was immersed in studies that not only sharpened his intellectual capability but also deepened his love for God and country. Such were, and still are, the strongest attractions of an Ateneo education.

For more than 150 years now, the Ateneo de Manila University has remained one of the most prestigious and comprehensive universities in Southeast Asia — participating meaningfully amidst the changing national and global milieus. The Ateneo has been at the vanguard of contributing to nation building. Drawing from the Jesuit tradition of faith, character formation, justice and civic engagement, Ateneans are taught to grow personally and spiritually. They are encouraged to not just think of themselves but also of their communities. "To be men and women for others" is at the core of every Jesuit identity, and ultimately, of every Atenean.

Ateneo's gentle genius, the late Fr. Horacio de la Costa, SJ, was one of them.

An effective communicator, extraordinary writer and esteemed historian, de la Costa was the first Filipino Superior of the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus. This remarkable accomplishment was followed with an appointment as General Assistant and Consultor to then Jesuit General Fr. Pedro Arrupe. Yet, what may most be remembered about de la Costa was not his long list of achievements nor his writings, it was that he used his exceptional talents to give glory to God and serve others. He did everything with love, devotion, and service, whether it was writing Light Cavalry (a book about the 400th anniversary of the Society of Jesus) or imparting knowledge to younger Ateneans as a History professor. He was even awarded the Medal of Freedom by the United States government for his role in helping the resistance movement during World War II.

With an education rooted in Ignatian spirituality, it is not surprising to see Ateneans championing the rights of those most vulnerable. Ateneans are change catalysts and who better to personify this than two men who gave up their life fighting for democracy: Edgar Jopson and Evelio Javier.

Jopson, like Rizal and de la Costa, was an excellent student — graduating valedictorian at the Ateneo High School and cum laude, BS Management Engineering at the Ateneo de Manila University. A recipient of the Ten Outstanding Young Men in 1970, Jopson was one of the bold young men who fought tirelessly against the viciousness of Martial Law. He was at the forefront of seeking political change until his death at the hands of the military in 1982.

Javier also graduated from the Ateneo High School with first honors. In 1963, he completed his AB History and Government and went on to study at the Ateneo Law School. As the youngest provincial governor in the Philippines at the time – he was 29 years old – Javier's passion for service and dedication personified the Ignatian spirit of faith, courage, and justice. At the peak of the snap presidential elections, Javier was killed by hooded gun men. His untimely demise on Feb. 11, 1986 was seen as one of the flames that ignited the 1986 People Power Revolution.

The Ateneo way is a way of oblation. More than harnessing the academic excellence of its students, the Ateneo helps mold future leaders who will be at the forefront of nation building. Noted alumni who contribute through jobs and growth are business tycoons Manuel V. Pangilinan (First Pacific), Lourdes Josephine Gotianum (Filinvest Development), Roberto Ongpin (Alphaland Corporation), Alfredo Ramos (National Bookstore), and Tomas Alcantara (Alson Consolidated Resources), to name a few. Young alumni like (Reese Fernandez-Ruiz (Rags2Riches), Mark Ruiz (Hapinoy) and Eleanor Pinugu (Mano Amiga Philippines) are also doing their part in addressing developmental problems through their social enterprises. Fernandez-Ruiz was, in fact, included in Forbes' 30 under 30 Social Entrepreneurs for 2015.

The Ateneo is committed to help rebuild the nation and has scaled up efforts through various initiatives. Among such programs are Gawad Kalinga (which helps build homes and communities in depressed areas); Pathways to Higher Education (assists academically-gifted but underprivileged youth from the public school system complete college education); the Ateneo Center for Educational Development (helps improve public basic education through programs); and the Disaster Response and Management team (assists in helping victims of natural calamities).

One hundred forty-four years after our national hero Jose Rizal became an Atenean, the Ateneo de Manila University continues to form men and women who will build knowledge, inspire and empower others, but most especially, use their gifts and talents for the greater glory of God.

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Career Development in the Philippines: A Rough Sketch of June 2014 to February 2015

by Carmen Siojo


Individual and group Career Counseling/Consultation (face-to-face and/or online) as well as on-campus recruitment initiatives (e.g. recruitment presentations, pre-employment testing) with Students and Alumni typically take place throughout the year at most universities and colleges in the tertiary level in the Philippines. Most institutions resume classes in June and begin career orientation programs for juniors and seniors in July. Mid-year conventions for the two major career professional organizations take place in August.

APPCU is committed to assist in the establishment, growth, and development of functional placement programs of its member schools. More specifically, it seeks to:

  1. enhance the knowledge, competencies, and opportunities for professional development of each member;
  2. make resources and information available to its member schools for the effective and efficient delivery of their placement services;
  3. strengthen linkages among member schools and with partners in the four employment sectors.

In September, employers start doing university roadshows for their flagship recruitment programs. And from fall through December, a series of career panel discussions and networking sessions are scheduled and organized by career field/ industry. The fall, specifically October, also finds employers conducting rounds at the many higher education institutions to filter top teams as university representatives for international marketing competitions. And in December, plans get underway for based career fairs. These fairs are scheduled as week-long events in January. And in February, week-long events include on-campus mock interviews..

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