Labor Market Assessment on Skills and ‎Demand Matching in Batangas City, Philippines

Abstract

This study conducted a labor market assessment aimed at identifying the alignment between industry skill demands and the available skills ‎within a local urban community. The research sought to improve employment opportunities by analyzing labor market trends and identifying gaps between workforce competencies and job requirements. Utilizing both quantitative data and qualitative insights from focus group ‎discussions, the study examined current and emerging skill needs in key sectors, particularly in skilled labor and engineering-related fields. ‎Results showed that industries commonly require competencies in welding, scaffolding, pipefitting, instrumentation, and other technical ‎areas, with emphasis on both hard and soft skills. In contrast, community members indicated a preference for skilled, professional, and ‎entrepreneurial job roles, while also highlighting challenges such as unmet qualifications, adaptability issues, and limited access to train‎ing. A mismatch was identified between the community’s existing skills and market demands. The study recommends implementing targeted ‎skill development programs, fostering collaboration between training providers and industries, and establishing a mechanism for ongoing ‎labor market monitoring. These findings are expected to inform the design of livelihood interventions that address employment gaps and ‎contribute to sustainable socio-economic development in the local context‎.