Manila: Young workers now prefer jobs that offer flexible arrangements and digitally-driven roles, a Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) official said Thursday. DOLE Undersecretary Carmela Torres noted a noticeable shift in employment preferences among the youth workforce in the country.

According to Philippines News Agency, Torres described this change as a "dynamic shift" towards meaningful work aligned with global demands. She highlighted this trend during her keynote address at the launch of the "Advancing Digital and Green Skills for Youth in ASEAN" project in Manila. Young people are increasingly interested in flexible work arrangements, roles driven by digital innovation, and opportunities to contribute to sustainable practices.

To address these evolving preferences, Torres emphasized that the government is continuously adapting its training and employment strategies. These efforts aim to align with the ambitions and capabilities of young workers, ensuring they are prepared for future jobs, particularly in emerging green and digital sectors.

DOLE's data from April 2025 indicates a youth labor force of 6.415 million, with a youth employment rate of 88.5 percent. The "Advancing Digital and Green Skills for Youth in ASEAN" project seeks to accelerate Southeast Asia's construction sector transition towards sustainability while equipping youth with skills to enhance their employability. The project is supported by the ILO/Korea Partnership Programme.

Khalid Hassan, director of the ILO Country Office for the Philippines, emphasized the importance of investing in young people's skills to foster a sustainable and inclusive future for the construction industry across the region.