President Marcos Signs the EBET Framework Act: A Humorous Look at Serious Intent
NEW LAW. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signs the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) Framework Act in a ceremony in Malacañang on Thursday (Nov. 7, 2024). This law aims to tackle job-skills mismatch in a uniquely Filipino way—through a framework that promises to set us up for a future filled with opportunities. (PNA photo by Darryl John Esguerra)
So, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has popped up with yet another charming nugget of legislation—the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) Framework Act. It’s like a gift that keeps on giving, wrapped in a delightful bow of governmental intervention aimed at solving the nagging problem of underemployment.
In breezy, bureaucratic lingo, this law is determined to seal the gaping chasm between the skills our workers possess and the skills that industries are crying out for, potentially solving a job-skills mismatch so severe it could make any job-seeker weep more than a tearful rom-com finale.
“I’m happy to say our employment figures are looking peachy,” chirped Marcos during the ceremonial signing at Malacañang. Honestly, talking about employment figures is a bit like discussing your diet plan over a slice of chocolate cake—ironic, yet somehow motivational. We’re all hoping those numbers keep trending upwards, right? Well, almost all of us—there’s that one friend who loves to argue about the benefits of a 24-hour work week…
The President enthused about the law opening up pathways for “professional growth and quality employment.” Now, if only “quality employment” came with a side of free Wi-Fi and stress-free mornings, we’d really be on to something!
Oh, but the real kicker? The new law promises to forge tighter bonds with the private sector. That’s right! Picture it: big corporations cozying up to training programs like a couple on a Netflix binge. The goal? Making sure that the workers of tomorrow are equipped with skills relevant to what’s hot in the job market today. Talk about ‘speed-dating’ for skills!
Senator Joel Villanueva expressed his certitude that this legal framework would empower Filipinos, making skill development as accessible as your local delivery app. And let’s face it, if we could only download skills as easily as food, we might just solve underemployment overnight. “Why yes, I’d like a side of interpersonal skills and a dash of digital marketing!”
Meanwhile, other lawmakers are standing at the sidelines, cheering like parents at a graduation ceremony. Baguio City Rep. Mark Go declared, “Through the EBET Act, we’re giving our workers the tools they need!” But where’s the manual that explains the benefits of combing one’s hair in the morning? That’s just as vital, right?
And let’s not forget EDCOM II executive director Karol Mark Yee, who noted that aligning EBET policies with industry needs is key—as if we’re all playing a giant game of “Simon Says” when it comes to education and employment.
So, as we embrace the EBET Framework Act with open arms and a smirk, let’s hope it indeed paves the way for a more skilled, adaptable, and globally competitive Filipino workforce. Remember, folks, it’s not just about finding jobs; it’s about finding the right jobs in the right places while sporting an impressive skill set that has us all feeling like LinkedIn superstars!
In conclusion, let’s keep our fingers crossed, our resumes freshly polished, and perhaps our sense of humor sharp—because if there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that a bit of laughter might just be the best skill of all.
This engaging blend of humor and insightful commentary aims to entertain while providing an informative take on the EBET Framework Act.
NEW LAW. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. officially signed the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) Framework Act during a significant ceremony at Malacañang on Thursday, November 7, 2024. This pivotal legislation seeks to institutionalize and enhance apprenticeship programs across the nation, addressing the pressing issue of jobs-skills mismatch, while fostering the development of a highly skilled and globally competitive Filipino workforce. (PNA photo by Darryl John Esguerra)
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has enacted the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) Framework Act, a vital piece of legislation aimed at mitigating the critical issue of underemployment that has plagued the nation for years.
Republic Act 12063, popularly known as the EBET Framework Act, stands as a priority initiative within the Marcos administration, designed to clearly institutionalize and fortify the country’s apprenticeship programs, thereby effectively addressing the prevalent jobs-skills mismatch.
Marcos emphasized that this transformational law will serve to improve the country’s employment metrics by placing a significant focus on upskilling and workforce development to encourage greater employability.
“I’m happy to note that our employment and unemployment rates improved in the past three months. With this law, I’m confident that we will be able to sustain and further improve these numbers,” he asserted during the ceremonial signing at Malacañang, underscoring the administration’s commitment to employment growth.
“By establishing a framework on career advancement and industry-relevant skills, this law directly addresses the issues of the lack of formal training and skill mismatches, ensuring that every Filipino can contribute and benefit from our nation’s growth,” Marcos added, highlighting the inclusivity of the new law.
The President detailed that the EBET will significantly enhance accessibility to relevant skills training, equipping Filipino workers with practical skills that facilitate immediate employment opportunities in foundational and mid-level skill areas.
“By opening pathways for professional advancement, employment prospects, and entrepreneurship, we are effectively responding to the demand for quality employment and cultivating a globally competitive workforce,” he asserted, indicating a broad vision for the nation’s labor market.
Furthermore, the President outlined plans to strengthen collaborative partnerships with the private sector, stating, “to align our training programs with real-world industry needs,” a move aimed at ensuring that educational initiatives meet the exact demands of various industries.
He elaborated that the EBET Framework Act seeks to harmonize diverse training approaches—such as apprenticeship, leadership development, and dual training systems—into one cohesive and inclusive structure crafted to meet the needs of modern education and labor markets.
In support of this significant legislation, Senator Joel Villanueva, a principal author and sponsor, expressed confidence that the EBET Act will empower Filipinos to excel within an evolving economy. “This law will bring real benefits, making skill development more accessible and targeted,” he stated, emphasizing its importance in providing better employment opportunities.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian echoed these sentiments, asserting that the EBET Act will ensure that graduates of technical-vocational education and training programs are better prepared for the labor market, a critical factor in enhancing job readiness across various sectors.
Baguio City Representative Mark Go, who heads the House Committee on Higher and Technical Education, reaffirmed that the EBET Act is pivotal in equipping the Filipino workforce with essential skills for securing suitable employment in a competitive job market.
“At the end of the day, what we want is an employable workforce. Through the passage of the EBET Act, we can address job-skills mismatches. We are giving our workers the tools they need to thrive in today’s competitive job market,” Go articulated, celebrating the legislative achievement.
Meanwhile, Executive Director of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), Karol Mark Yee, highlighted that the EBET Act aims to align EBET policies seamlessly with industry requirements, ensuring adaptability to the ever-evolving job landscape.
“EBET has been one of EDCOM2’s key priorities, given the critical role it plays in preparing our workforce for the labor market,” Yee concluded, emphasizing the law’s role in creating a robust link between education and employment. (with Wilnard Bacelonia/PNA)
He relevant job training systems for our workers,” he stated, highlighting the importance of inclusivity within the framework to ensure no one is left behind.
Baguio City Rep. Mark Go also supported the initiative, praising the EBET Act for equipping Filipino workers with essential tools needed for their professional journeys. “We’re finally giving our workers the resources and guidance they need to thrive in this fast-paced job market,” he remarked.
The enthusiasm surrounding the EBET Framework Act signals a collective hope for a brighter future where skill development is not just a luxury but a basic right accessible to every Filipino. Employment stakeholders are cautiously optimistic, viewing the law as a potential game changer in addressing underemployment and mismatched skill sets.
As President Marcos Jr. embarks on this legislative venture, the focus remains clear: bridge the gap between available jobs and skilled workers while fostering a competitive workforce poised to thrive in a global marketplace. If successful, the EBET Framework Act may very well become a landmark achievement in the ongoing quest for better employment opportunities and workforce readiness in the Philippines.
the EBET Framework Act is a multifaceted approach aimed at aligning education with industry needs, enhancing apprenticeship programs, and developing a more skilled Filipino workforce. All eyes will be on how this act unfolds in practice, as many hope for a tangible impact on employment levels and economic growth in the archipelago.
