Bataan 1st District Representative Tony Roman III has authored House Bill 612, or the Industrial Strategy and Workforce Alignment Act, a measure that seeks to align skills training with the unique economic strengths of every region in the Philippines.

Congressman Roman emphasized that a “one-size-fits-all” approach to job creation does not work, noting that Bicol’s agricultural strengths differ from Cebu’s tourism sector, or Ilocos’ capabilities compared to Davao’s. The bill mandates each region, in partnership with agencies such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), to craft a 10-year industrial roadmap.

The proposal envisions the establishment of Regional Skills Hubs that will provide training programs tailored to local industries, while the government partners with companies to guarantee job opportunities for trainees. Roman said the measure acts as a “blueprint” for livelihood, identifying priority industries, required training, and support from both government and the private sector.

“This ensures the right skills, in the right place, at the right time,” Roman said. “Filipinos should have access to meaningful training and employment without needing to leave their hometowns.”

The bill targets new graduates, women and single mothers, displaced workers, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) seeking to return home, and local workers in provincial industries. It aims to expand training opportunities, improve job matching, strengthen local industries, and build a prepared workforce across all regions.

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