By Brian Campued
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday called on the youth to continue enhancing their skills, stressing that their abilities are “more valuable than oil, more enduring than gold, and more transformative than any technology.”
During the opening ceremony of the 14th WorldSkills Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Manila in Pasay City, Marcos noted the value of skills as the “new global currency”.
“They are the foundation of innovation and the engine of industry,” he said.
“In a heavily interconnected and changing world, true success depends on the skills, the knowledge, and the creativity of our people,” he added.
The President noted that holding events such as the WorldSkills competition—which is the largest showcase of professional and technical skills among the youth in Southeast Asia—helps nurture the younger generation’s skills and talents in various fields of expertise.
Close to 300 participants from ASEAN member states, including first-time joiner Timor-Leste, will compete across 32 skill areas under six sectors: Manufacturing and Engineering Technology; Information and Communication Technology; Construction and Building Technology; Social and Personal Service; Creative Arts and Fashion; and Transportation and Logistics.
“As a gateway for learning, collaboration, and cultural exchange, the WorldSkills ASEAN serves as the stage where young people push their limits, competing not only for medals but for the pride of their nations,” Marcos said.
This is in support of his goal of developing a multi-skilled and globally competitive Filipino workforce through continuous improvement and aligning the country’s technical-vocational education and training (TVET) programs with international standards.
The WorldSkills ASEAN Manila 2025 will run until Aug. 30, with the main competition slated at the World Trade Center and the Philippine Trade Training Center from Aug. 26–28.
The Philippines first hosted the biennial competition in 1996.
-jpv
