Philippine Construction Board, DMW Ink Deal to Upskill Overseas Workers

THE Philippine Overseas Construction Board (POCB) signed a memorandum of agreement (MoA) with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to help upskill construction workers overseas. The MoA establishes a framework for closer collaboration between the two parties in promoting workforce preparedness, industry development, market access, and international engagement for the construction sector, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said in a statement. POCB Chairman Isidro A. Consunji said the partnership reflects the need to ensure that Filipino construction workers are globally competitive. Under the partnership, POCB and DMW will explore programs to help upskill Filipino construction workers deployed overseas through projects and contracts won by POCB-registered contractors. The global construction landscape is currently shaped by emerging technologies, increasing demand for specialized skills, and growing competition for talent, Mr. Consunji, who is also the president and chairman of DMCI Holdings, Inc., said. He noted the critical role of Filipino construction workers in major projects across the Middle East, Asia, Oceania, and other regions. The MoA was signed by Mr. Consunji and Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac, together with officials and representatives from both organizations. The POCB is an agency focused on initiatives to enhance the global competitiveness of Philippine contractors and construction-related enterprises. It is an implementing arm of the Construction Industry Authority of the Philippines, an arm of the DTI. The global construction market is projected to grow to $16.11 trillion by 2030 from $11.39 trillion in 2024, according to a 2025 report by Deloitte. — Beatriz Marie D. Cruz