Villanueva: Uplift the dignity of blue-collar workers

Senator Joel Villanueva underscored on Saturday the need to uplift the dignity of blue-collar workers, lamenting current perception that technical-vocational (tech-voc) remains a “second-rate” profession.

In a statement, Villanueva recognized skilled workers as the country commemorates National Tech-Voc Day in accordance with Republic Act No. 10970.

“Today, we give recognition to our tech-voc graduates and skilled workers who are living proof that there is hope and success in the field of tech-voc,” Villanueva said

“Our Filipino skilled workers have consistently shown themselves that we are employable, competitive, and world-class,” he added.

Villanueva, who is also the author and sponsor of the law declaring August 25 as national tech-voc day, lamented however the perception that blue-collar jobs were “second-rate” profession.

“It is possible to change this perception because more and more Filipinos see that blue-collar jobs offer some real advantages, there are jobs available for tech-voc graduates and oftentimes the pay is even greater than white collar work,” Villanueva said.

The senator said that through effective information dissemination, this perception against tech-voc workers could still be changed.

He also suggested that expansion of scholarship programs, private sector engagement, and quality assurance systems, would help in changing the outlook on graduates of tech-voc.

“It is very clear to us that tech-voc plays a key role in realizing both universal right to education and to work, people-oriented and socially responsible community, and the full potential to deliver more and better jobs. However, many challenges will persist if the “tech-voc lang” mentality remains,” Villanueva noted.

“We are one with the tech-voc sector in celebrating a special day that recognizes the hard work, challenges, and successes of our Filipino skilled workers and graduates. Thank you for being our source of pride and inspiration. Mabuhay po kayo!” he said.  /muf