Unpacking the Struggles of Young Filipinos in the Post-COVID Job Market
The dream of landing a good job after years of dedicated study is a cornerstone of aspirations for many Filipino families. However, for a growing number of recent graduates, particularly those who completed their degrees during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, that dream is proving elusive. The label “tambay with a degree” has emerged, a stark reflection of the disconnect between educational attainment and employment opportunities. This phenomenon, explored in detail by GMA News Online’s “Stand For Truth,” raises critical questions about the preparedness of our workforce and the responsiveness of the job market to a new generation of educated but underemployed Filipinos.
The Shadow of the Pandemic on New Entrants
The “Stand For Truth” report highlights how the pandemic fundamentally altered the landscape for graduates. Traditional hiring practices were disrupted, internships were canceled, and many companies downsized or froze hiring altogether. For those who navigated online classes and remote learning, the lack of practical experience and networking opportunities, often gained through physical internships and career fairs, has left them at a disadvantage. The report points to a generation that entered the job market during an unprecedented global crisis, facing a vastly different economic environment than their predecessors.
“According to GMA News Online’s ‘Stand For Truth’ report, pandemic graduates often lack crucial on-the-job training and industry exposure,” stated the video metadata. This lack of hands-on experience is a significant hurdle, as many employers prioritize candidates who can immediately contribute without extensive training periods.
Skills Mismatch: A Persistent Challenge Amplified
Beyond the pandemic’s immediate impact, the “tambay with a degree” phenomenon is also a symptom of a more enduring issue: the skills mismatch. Reports from various labor and education sector analyses have consistently pointed to a gap between the skills taught in academic institutions and the demands of the current job market. This divergence is particularly acute in rapidly evolving fields. While graduates may possess theoretical knowledge, they may not have the practical, in-demand skills that employers are actively seeking.
The “Stand For Truth” report implicitly touches upon this by showcasing the experiences of graduates. While the report focuses on the pandemic’s direct impact, the underlying reality of a skills gap makes it harder for graduates to transition, even in a healthier economy. This includes a need for upskilling in areas like digital literacy, data analytics, and specialized technical proficiencies, which may not be adequately covered in traditional curricula.
Tradeoffs in the Modern Job Search
For these graduates, the path forward often involves difficult choices and a recalibration of expectations. Many are forced to consider jobs that are below their educational level, accept lower starting salaries, or engage in temporary or freelance work to gain experience. This can lead to a sense of disillusionment and underutilization of their hard-earned degrees.
Furthermore, the pressure to gain experience can lead to exploitative internships or unpaid work, which, while offering exposure, can also perpetuate a cycle of low wages and limited career progression. The economic reality for these graduates often involves significant tradeoffs between immediate employment and long-term career satisfaction and financial stability.
Implications for the Future Workforce and Economy
The prolonged underemployment of a significant portion of the educated workforce has far-reaching implications. It can lead to a “brain drain” if talented individuals seek opportunities abroad, or a demotivated workforce domestically. This not only affects individual economic well-being but also hinders national productivity and innovation.
A key concern highlighted by the “Stand For Truth” report is the potential for this cohort to become a “lost generation” in terms of career development. If they struggle to find meaningful employment early in their careers, their earning potential and contribution to the economy could be significantly curtailed over their lifetimes.
Navigating the Job Market: Practical Advice and Cautions
For graduates facing these challenges, proactive steps are crucial. The “Stand For Truth” report, while a narrative exploration, implicitly underscores the need for continuous learning and adaptability. Graduates should actively seek out short courses, online certifications, and workshops that enhance their skills in areas identified as high-demand by industry. Networking, even virtually, remains vital; connecting with professionals in desired fields can provide insights and potential opportunities.
It is also advisable for graduates to research current job market trends and tailor their resumes and cover letters to specific roles, highlighting transferable skills and any relevant projects or volunteer work. Be realistic about entry-level positions, but do not settle indefinitely. Look for roles that offer growth potential and opportunities to acquire new skills.
A cautionary note: be wary of job offers that seem too good to be true or require upfront payment, as these can be scams. Always verify the legitimacy of potential employers.
Key Takeaways for Pandemic Graduates and Stakeholders
- The COVID-19 pandemic created unique challenges for graduates, impacting their ability to secure employment due to disrupted hiring and lack of practical experience.
- A persistent skills mismatch between academic training and industry needs exacerbates the difficulties faced by new entrants into the job market.
- Graduates often face difficult tradeoffs, including accepting lower-paying jobs or roles below their qualification level to gain experience.
- Prolonged underemployment can have negative consequences for individual career progression and the national economy.
- Proactive upskilling, continuous learning, and strategic networking are essential for graduates navigating the current job landscape.
A Call for a More Responsive Educational and Economic Ecosystem
The “tambay with a degree” narrative is more than just individual misfortune; it’s a signal for systemic reform. Educational institutions must work more closely with industries to align curricula with current and future job demands. Government agencies and private sector entities should collaborate on initiatives that provide more accessible and relevant internships, skills training programs, and job placement assistance specifically for recent graduates. Addressing this challenge requires a concerted effort to ensure that the investment in education translates into meaningful opportunities and a robust future workforce for the Philippines.
References
- Stand For Truth: Tambay with a Degree – Bakit hirap makahanap ng trabaho ang pandemic graduates? – GMA News Online. This article and video explores the difficulties faced by recent graduates in the Philippine job market, particularly those who finished their studies during the COVID-19 pandemic.