When Senate Resolution 97 ratified the GATT-Uruguay Round Agreement and the Philippines’ accession to the World Trade Organization in December 1994, the Department of Labor and employment was mandated to implement a social adjustment measures program for workers and industries perceived to be adversely affected by globalization and trade liberalization.

Thus, a DOLE-GATT Adjustment Measures Program was formulated, which was initially supported by a P500 million appropriation.  The program intervention was designed to respond to two main concerns: provision of safety nets, and enhancing competitiveness of local industries and workers. To attain these objectives, a two-prolonged strategy was adopted.  One was the conduct of training and re-training programs to enable displaced workers to be absorbed in secure jobs in competitive industries.

The other strategy involved the institutionalization of a labor market information system, worker- and enterprise-based productivity programs, and industry tripartite councils to provide an enabling environment toward competitiveness.

This paper provides an indication of the changes in the employment and income status to beneficiaries after undergoing the training programs.  The findings of the study shall serve as basis for recommendations to improve the utility of the program to its intended beneficiaries.