’Build Build Build’ to create 2 million more construction jobs – DTI

The infrastructure projects under the government's Build Build Build program, which will cost P8-P9 trillion from 2017 to 2022,  would likely create two million more construction jobs, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez said on Tuesday.

"All of these will create more jobs and we need more jobs. The training can be provided to all the kinds of construction skills that will be needed," Lopez said on GMA News TV program "State of the Nation with Jessica Soho".

"We have the construction manpower development foundation, and together with TESDA (Technical Education and Skills Development Authority), combined 'yang tumutulong sa mga skills training," he added.

Those interested in training were advised to apply at the nearest office of the DTI or at the Construction Industry Authority of the Philippines.

Furthermore, given the need for more labor, Lopez also invited overseas Filipino workers in the construction industry to take advantage of the local opportunities.

"Kasama din dito ang pag-imbita sa mga OFW na nasa construction industry may opportunity na sa Pilipinas," Lopez said.

Foreign support

The Trade Secretary also said that the infrastructure program would also increase the demand for construction companies.

"Mayroon tayong over 10,000 na contractors. Ngayon kung pag malalalaman naman 'yan kung mayu-utilize 'yang lahat, natural tendency naman talaga is open naman 'yung bidding eh so it will be open now to other contractors, as well," Lopez said.

The government had vowed to prioritize local companies in the "Golden Age of Infrastructure", but would nevertheless remain open to foreign investors.

Regardless, the massive infrastructure program could also expect support from countries such as Japan.

"We have collaboration with Japan, the Japanese government thru the MLIT (Japan's The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism). They will assist us in training as well as improving our training facilities," Trade Undersecretary Ruth Castelo added.

Meanwhile, President Rodrigo Duterte reminded government officials and the construction industry not to engage in corrupt practices that would compromise the quality of the Build Build Build projects.

"I want you to work hand-in-hand with government. I want you to get rich. For all I care, I want to make huge profits. Go ahead, go to the big ones but do not corrupt," the president said at an anti-corruption summit in Pasay City.— Margaret Claire Layug/DVM, GMA News