THE SECOND Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) reported that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has expressed support for the development of the National Education and Workforce Development Plan (NatPlan).

The NatPlan is a strategic initiative designed to align the nation’s education system and workforce with the rapidly evolving demands of the global economy, announced during yesterday’s Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) meeting.

The plan aims to identify workforce development needs in priority industries and foster coordinated talent development across key education agencies, including DepEd, CHED, TESDA, and DOST.

It will also guide government policies and investments in education, training, and research over the next decade.

The development of NatPlan is in line with the mandate of EDCOM 2 under Republic Act 11899.

To formulate the plan, EDCOM will collaborate with PSAC, other industry leaders, and government agencies such as NEDA, DOLE, and DTI to improve workforce development efficiency and address job-skill mismatches.

EDCOM identified convergence in seven initial sectors, including semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, healthcare, renewable energy, agriculture, maritime, and hospitality and tourism.

However, data shows that the majority of graduates in Senior High School (SHS)-Technical-Vocational-Livelihood (TVL) and Technical-Vocational Education and Training (TVET) focus on Food and Beverage Services, Bread and Pastry Production, and Cookery.

In higher education, top programs remain teacher education, business administration, and criminology.

“We need to strengthen the connection between educational output and labor market demands, ensuring that educational opportunities—whether in SHS, TVET, or college—not only provide relevant skills but also lead to quality job opportunities for graduates,” said EDCOM 2 Executive Director Karol Mark Yee.