Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic and Technological Changes
- Lockdowns and quarantine measures severely disrupted global and local labor markets.
- Rapid adoption of new technologies (mobile internet, AI, sensors) may displace certain jobs, especially clerical and low-skilled positions.
Need for a Comprehensive National Employment Strategy
- Emphasizes a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach.
- Aims to revitalize the economy and implement job-generating programs responsive to pandemic-induced challenges and technological shifts.
- Promotes social dialogue and labor protections aligned with International Labour Organization principles.
Adoption of National Employment Recovery Strategy (NERS) 2021-2022
- Expands previous initiatives like "Trabaho, Negosyo, Kabuhayan" considering labor market changes.
- Focuses on:
a) Creating a policy environment to increase employment opportunities and access to livelihood and training.
b) Enhancing employability, wellness, and productivity in the new normal.
c) Supporting businesses and preserving jobs.
Establishment and Composition of the NERS Task Force
- Task Force created to implement NERS 2021-2022 addressing COVID-19 and technological impacts.
- Chaired by the Secretary of Trade and Industry with co-chairs from DOLE and TESDA.
- Members include key cabinet secretaries and heads from relevant agencies across various sectors.
- Members may appoint authorized representatives to act on their behalf.
- DOLE serves as Secretariat providing support to the Task Force.
Powers and Functions of the NERS Task Force
- Formulate, update, and implement the NERS Action Plan focusing on labor market recovery.
- Harmonize government employment, livelihood, and training programs.
- Foster partnerships for sustained employment recovery, engaging private sector and international partners.
- Identify and integrate existing agency programs with the NERS framework.
- Conduct promotional activities to broaden employment campaigns.
- Monitor implementation and recommend solutions to address gaps.
- Execute additional functions as directed by the President.
Monitoring, Reporting, and Evaluation Mechanisms
- Joint evaluations by member-agencies every three months from effectivity.
- Periodic reporting to the Office of the President on implementation and policy effectiveness.
Funding Provisions
- Initial funding sourced from existing appropriations of Task Force agencies.
- Subsequent funding incorporated in regular agency budgets through standard processes.
Repeal, Separability, and Effectivity Clauses
- All inconsistent issuances or regulations repealed or amended.
- If any provision is invalidated, remaining provisions remain effective.
- Immediate effectivity upon publication in the Official Gazette or general circulation newspaper.