Manila: The Department of Education (DepEd) on Friday pushed for stronger alignment among educational institutions, training providers, industry partners, and government agencies as it represented the Philippines at the 16th ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Qualifications Reference Framework Committee (AQRFC) Meeting. In a news release, the DepEd emphasized the necessity of a common framework to connect basic education, technical-vocational training, higher education, and employment, ensuring learners can transition more smoothly from school to work.
According to Philippines News Agency, Education Secretary Sonny Angara highlighted that strengthening alignment across sectors remains central to preparing Filipino learners for evolving workforce demands. He pointed out that under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s leadership, the nation envisions a more creative and innovative Filipino learner, which will be beneficial for the industry. This vision is reflected in the ongoing updates to the Philippine Qualifications Framework (PQF), which aims to provide clearer pathways for learners and ensure that skills gained in school and training are recognized and valued across sectors.
The updated PQF now features eight levels aligned with the ASEAN Qualifications Reference Framework, with defined vertical, horizontal, and diagonal pathways between technical-vocational and higher education. Currently, Senior High School is mapped to Level 3, and micro-credentials have been formally integrated to support lifelong learning and offer learners more flexible opportunities to build skills over time.
Angara also underscored the importance of inter-agency collaboration to address employment mismatch and curriculum gaps, as well as the necessity of a unified labor market information system. This involves cooperation with government agencies such as the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
The DepEd reiterated its support for a unified labor market information system and the expansion of enterprise-based training and industry-led upskilling programs. These initiatives, according to Angara, are designed to ensure that learners are better supported throughout their education and training and are more prepared as they transition into technical-vocational programs and, ultimately, into the workforce.
Angara concluded by acknowledging the alignment achieved under President Marcos' leadership, while also noting the challenge of execution. He emphasized the importance of staying the course, aligning budgets and incentives, and holding all parties accountable for learning outcomes.
