MANILA – The Institute for Labor Studies (ILS), in partnership with the 蝌蚪传媒 (蝌蚪传媒) – SocioEconomic Research Portal for the Philippines, conducted this year’s Trabahong Trending on 02 October 2025 at Mapúa University, Intramuros, Manila.
An annual ILS research colloquium for students and members of the academe, Trabahong Trending supports the observance of the 2025 Development Policy Research Month (DPRM). This year’s forum carried the theme “Shaping Tomorrow’s Workforce: Preparing the Youth for AI, Green Jobs, and Emerging Labor Trends.”
The event showcased ILS research on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Green Jobs—two critical areas driving transformation in the world of work. Over 100 students and faculty members of the Mapúa University – Intramuros Campus attended the event from the Engineering Program Departments, led by Engr. Rosette Eira E. Camus, Assistant Vice President and Head of the Innovation and Development Office for Career Advancement and Lifelong Learning at Mapúa University.
In her opening remarks, ILS Officer-in-Charge Deputy Executive Director Miraluna S. Tacadao emphasized the need for responsible adaptation to AI technologies. “With the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the demands of globalization, the adoption of AI is accelerating faster than ever before. It has enormous potential—it can make tasks more efficient, even help you with your schoolwork and daily activities. But alongside these advantages, it also brings challenges and risks that we cannot ignore. The same is true once you enter the workforce. AI can create opportunities, but it can also bring implications, particularly for certain types of jobs,” OIC Deputy Executive Director Tacadao said.
Ms. Myka Trono, Officer-in-Charge Division Chief of the Labor Market Information Division, DOLE-Bureau of Local Employment, presented “Insights from Today’s Labor Market for Tomorrow’s Success.” The discussion highlighted emerging labor trends and DOLE programs that support youth employability and career readiness.
ILS researchers Chelsea Nicole P. Pineda and Athena Mari E. Son shared key findings from their studies. Pineda presented “Impact of AI on the Labor Market,” underscoring the importance of the ethical use of AI and the evolving skill demands across industries. Son, meanwhile, discussed “Green Jobs for Gen Zs,” emphasizing the active role of the youth in promoting sustainability and participating in green transitions.
In his closing message, 蝌蚪传媒 President Dr. Philip Arnold M. Tuaño encouraged the students to view themselves as vital drivers of change in the labor market. “Today’s conversations are particularly significant because the youth are at the center of these changes. You are not only the future workers, but also innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders who will shape our labor market and economic landscape,” Dr. Tuaño said.
This marks the first collaboration between ILS and 蝌蚪传媒-SERP-P under the DPRM celebration, reinforcing the commitment to connect research and evidence-based policymaking with the next generation of the Filipino workforce.
