President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday vowed continued support for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and skills training programs to create more job opportunities for Filipinos.
Speaking during the launch of Trabaho at Negosyo, Marcos said the government continues to expand employment initiatives, including job fairs and programs, to help workers adapt to a changing world where industries are reshaped by digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI).
“Today, we live in a very uncertain world. What many of us have studied and developed a decade—or even just a couple of years ago— are sometimes no longer relevant,” Marcos said.
“Traditional jobs are transforming. The skills that were once optional, now they are essential,” he added.
Marcos noted that many successful entrepreneurs started with small ventures such as food carts, market stalls, or online stalls and faced challenges because of limited capital, market access, and rapid technological advancement.
He expressed confidence that Filipinos can adapt to change, citing their resilience and resourcefulness.
“Naniniwala ako kayang makasabay naman ang mga Pilipino. Alam naman natin na sa kabila ng mga hamon, maabilidad at madiskarte ang ating mga kababayan (I believe Filipinos can keep up. We know that despite the challenges, our people are resourceful and resilient),” he said.
Marcos also emphasized the crucial role of the private sector in helping address employment gaps, particularly through partnerships that promote entrepreneurship and skills development.
He lauded Go Negosyo founder Jose Ma. “Joey” Concepcion III for championing MSMEs development in the country.
Marcos said his administration is expanding programs on reskilling, upskilling, and enterprise-based training to help employers train potential workers based on industry needs.
“We equip our people not only to survive, but to succeed in this changing world,” he said. “Through the advocacy of Go Negosyo, we promote a positive mindset towards business—not as a last resort, but as a strong complement to our collective role in nation-building.”
He noted that over 74,000 jobseekers were able to secure employment when the government conducted more than 2,300 job fairs nationwide in 2025.
He added that in January 2026 alone, around 47 job fairs were organized, with more than 2,400 applicants hired on the spot.
Marcos said government services for entrepreneurs are being streamlined through Negosyo Centers, which provide mentorship, advisory services, and assistance in expanding market access.
He encouraged participants to take advantage of the learning sessions and opportunities offered through the Trabaho at Negosyo program to strengthen their skills and businesses.
“Because when we build skills, we build confidence. When we create jobs, we restore the dignity of our people. And when we strengthen our economic foundations, we build a stronger nation for tomorrow,” Marcos said.
The Trabaho at Negosyo program, organized by Go Negosyo, features learning sessions with industry experts and thought leaders on business development.
The event also includes a job fair that connects jobseekers with employers across various sectors.
Government agencies such as the Department of Trade and Industry, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, and Bureau of Internal Revenue are providing one-stop services and pre-employment assistance. (PNA)
