A powerful alliance has been forged between a leading building materials supplier and the nation’s social welfare department, promising a wave of opportunity for construction workers in the Calabarzon region.
This collaboration directly addresses a core tenet of the national poverty-reduction strategy, enshrined in Republic Act 11310, by prioritizing the development of human capital – the skills and knowledge that empower individuals to thrive.
The initiative will open doors to comprehensive skills training, welcoming anyone aged 18 and above, regardless of prior experience, eager to master the art of construction.
At the heart of this effort lies the Knauf Academy, a dedicated training center established in June 2022, specializing in the precise techniques of gypsum board installation and jointing.
Already, nearly 850 workers have successfully completed the Academy’s programs, gaining valuable expertise in a rapidly evolving industry.
A key focus of the training is the promotion of lightweight construction methods – a crucial adaptation for a country frequently challenged by both tropical climates and seismic activity, offering enhanced flexibility, functionality, and safety.
The goal extends beyond simply improving skillsets; it’s about unlocking career advancement for existing workers and providing a direct pathway to employment for those seeking opportunities.
To facilitate this, a dedicated job-matching platform, “K-Trabaho,” has been launched, directly connecting Academy graduates with contractors actively seeking skilled labor.
The initial phase will concentrate on the Calabarzon region, but the vision is ambitious – a nationwide expansion targeting over 45,000 workers, supported by additional training centers and mobile units to reach even the most remote communities.
This partnership represents a significant investment in the Filipino workforce, aiming to elevate industry standards and build a more resilient, skilled, and prosperous future.
