The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) is joining forces with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to enhance construction workers’ skills amid the anticipated high demand for housing workers.
DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar said in an interview that he is expecting a higher demand for construction workers with the Marcos administration’s “Pambansang Pabahay” program.
“Isa po sa nakikita naming problema sa ngayon ang kakulangan sa manggagawa kapag nag-full blast na ang ating construction. We have a problem with availability of skilled workers,” he said.
“Nakikipag-ugnayan na po kami sa TESDA para sa training… ng mga skilled workers – karpentero, plumber, electrician at para sa finishing touches ng mga mason,” he added.
The DHSUD said talks have begun with TESDA Director General Danilo Cruz in October of last year to improve the housing industry’s workforce and skill set for the timely construction and turn over of houses to beneficiaries.
“Right now, we are looking at all angles and aspects to prepare for the beginning of actual implementation of the Pambansang Pabahay on the ground. We are fast-tracking construction so that we can adjust with the projected increase in cost,” Acuzar said.
The DHSUD noted that 1.7 million jobs will be generated annually under the government’s housing program.
To date, groundbreaking ceremonies have been conducted by the department for 17 housing programs, while 70 memorandum of understanding for the program have been inked. AG – gb
