Increasing Participation in Enterprise-Based Education and Training: A Systems Thinking Approach to Reducing Job-Skills Mismatch

Pamela Manalo
Atty. Margarita Alias
Atty. Levy Ordoñez
Albert Basa

Senate of the Philippines and House of Representatives
Senior Leaders Track
Course on Systems Thinking
2025

The job-skills mismatch remains a persistent challenge in the Philippines. This paper examines the low participation of employers in enterprise-based training (EBT) which is intended to bridge the gap between workforce capabilities and industry needs. An analysis based on the EBT experience was intended to draw up practical interventions that will support the implementation of a recently enacted Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) Framework Act.

Using systems tools such as behavior-over-time graphs, connection circles, and feedback loop diagrams, the paper maps key structural and behavioral drivers of low EBT uptake, including limited awareness among employers and prospective trainees, weak multi- stakeholder coordination, unattractive or poorly accessed incentives, and the lingering perception that technical-vocational pathways are inferior to college degrees. The study draws on recent national statistics, policy reports, and evaluations of Technical-Vocational Education Training (TVET) programs, and integrates stakeholder perspectives primarily from employers, trainees, and TESDA as the government arm for TVET.

The proposed intervention plan identifies three main leverage points: (1) an aggressive, multi-channel information and advocacy campaign that highlights success stories, and deepens awareness of EBET; (2) more attractive incentives, paired with a streamlined, digital one-stop-shop for employers availing tax and non-tax benefits; and (3) stronger, mutually beneficial tie-ups between enterprises and education institutions to align curricula, training design, and assessment standards. Together, these interventions aim to bring more employers into the EBET ecosystem, improve the employability and mobility of workers, and support a more inclusive, responsive, and future-ready labor market that better reflects the needs of both industry and Filipino workers.