PEZA Partners with Dualtech to Upskill Ecozone Workers

THE Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) said it signed a partnership with the Dualtech Training Center Foundation, Inc. (Dualtech) to training workers employed in PEZA-registered economic zones (ecozones). In a statement on Monday, PEZA said the memorandum of understanding (MoU) seeks to improve the technical skills of workers employed by PEZA-registered business enterprises (RBEs). The partnership seeks to establish an industry-academia framework with Dualtech to deliver customized technical training, micro-credential programs, competency-based assessments, and TESDA (Technical Education and Skills Development Authority)-recognized certifications that cater to the needs of PEZA locators. PEZA said it will facilitate RBE participation, coordinate implementation across its ecozones, and help identify priority skills requirements. The MoU also covers skills mapping, industry consultations, career development initiatives, workforce planning, and learning forums to upskill workers for roles in high-value manufacturing, electronics, information technology (IT), logistics, and other strategic industries. Established in 1972, Dualtech is a private vocational school based in Carmelray Industrial Park I in Canlubang, Calamba City, Laguna. Dualtech said it pioneered the German Dual Training System in the Philippines. The system blends classroom and industry learning. “This partnership with Dualtech ensures that our workforce continuously develops the technical skills and industry competencies that investors need today and in the future,” PEZA Director-General Tereso O. Panga was quoted as saying. He cited the 2025 ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office assessment, which noted that the Philippines must focus on boosting productivity and upskilling its workforce to ensure long-term growth. Philippine workers are under pressure to meet the evolving demands of strategic industries like IT, logistics, and high-value manufacturing. “The partnership is expected to further strengthen the country’s position as a preferred investment destination anchored on skilled human capital,” PEZA said. — Beatriz Marie D. Cruz