Creat8 Stories Inc., in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), and the EduCare Research and Development Foundation, officially announced the launch of INITIATE 2025: The Career & Education Congress. This landmark national event will take place on October 17–19, 2025 at Megatrade Hall 1, SM Megamall.
INITIATE 2025 is designed to bridge the gap between education and industry, bringing together students, educators, employers, and government agencies to foster collaboration and prepare the Filipino workforce for the future of work. The Congress highlights the crucial role of education as a driver of national progress and emphasizes the power of public-private partnerships in building a resilient, future-ready workforce.
“This Congress aligns closely with our Philippine Labor and Employment Plan 2023–2028, which focuses on improving employability, expanding job opportunities, and promoting shared labor market governance,” said Asec. Patrick Patriwirawan Jr., OIC Assistant Secretary of DOLE’s Bureau of Local Employment. “Through INITIATE 2025, we provide a platform where young people and job seekers can gain insights into labor market trends, connect with government programs, and discover career development opportunities.”
Representing the private sector, ECOP Director General Jose Roland Moya highlighted the importance of stronger education-industry alignment. “INITIATE is more than a conference, it is a forward-looking platform that builds an ecosystem of ideas and a dynamic network of changemakers across government, industry, academia, and civil society. The future of work demands a workforce that is agile, adaptable, and equipped not only with technical skills but also with creativity, critical thinking, and resilience.”
Over three days, participants can look forward to:
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INITIATE-ED Talks – Inspiring keynotes from leaders and innovators on the future of work and education.
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INITIATE-ED Circles – Insightful panel discussions tackling skills gaps, workforce readiness, and education-industry collaboration.
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Networking & Exhibits – Showcases from schools, companies, and organizations featuring innovative programs and career pathways.
With thousands of attendees expected, including students, educators, NGOs, business leaders, and industry professionals, INITIATE 2025 aims to spark a national movement that strengthens collaboration between the public and private sectors to uplift the country’s education and employment landscape.
“At its heart, INITIATE 2025 is about connection, between classrooms and workplaces, policies and practice, and students and their aspirations,” said Kayla Cabasal, Program Lead for INITIATE 2025 at Creat8 Stories Inc. “The future is not built by one sector alone, it is created when we work together. That is the spirit of INITIATE, and we invite everyone to be part of it.”
Be part of the movement. Do not miss INITIATE 2025: A Career & Education Congress, happening on October 17–19, 2025 at Megatrade Hall 1, SM Megamall.
For tickets and more information, visit https://bit.ly/InitiateTickets
