CITY OF MALOLOS — Sen. Joel Villanueva encouraged graduates of Bulacan State University (BulSU) on Thursday to continue learning beyond the classroom.

The Bulakeño senator reminded the new graduates that emerging technologies are reshaping industries, creating new jobs and transforming existing roles.

This was the core message of Villanueva’s address to approximately 873 graduates from BulSU’s College of Information Communications Technology and College of Science, along with their respective faculty members.

Villanueva explained that automation through artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics is redefining the job landscape.

“Graduation is only the beginning for you. Never stop learning because life never stops teaching,” Villanueva said in his keynote speech. “What you learned here at BulSU is ‘Volume 1.’ What you will learn in the real world is ‘Volume 2.’ Reskilling, upskilling, and new skilling are the key.”

Citing data from the World Economic Forum (WEF), Villanueva noted that while an estimated 85 million jobs may be lost globally by 2025 due to automation, around 97 million new roles are expected to emerge because of technological advancements.

“By 2029 in the Philippines, there will be job growth most significantly for Data Analysts and Scientists with about 95% net growth, and AI and Machine Learning Specialists with around 60% net growth,” the lawmaker continued.

Villanueva also highlighted his legislative efforts to promote lifelong learning, including Senate Bill 2960, which he authored and sponsored. The bill, designed to serve as a framework for continuous education and skills development, is currently awaiting the President’s signature.

He emphasized the importance of developing credentials, urging universities to adopt systems for “microcompetencies, microcredentials, or digital certificates.”

“Hindi po ito imposible o unrealistic dahil ginagawa na po ito sa maraming bansa. The laws that we have passed will serve as building blocks of our vision for Philippine education in the age of AI – a Supermarket of Competencies,” Villanueva said.

The senator underscored the value of education for Bulakenyos, recalling a historic moment when 20 young women from Malolos petitioned Governor General Valeriano Weyler to establish a night school so they could study Spanish.

“Noon, kailangang manikluhod at makipaglaban ng mga Bulakenyo para matuto at makapag-aral. Ngayon, malawak na ang access n’yo sa education at training,” he said. “Graduates, tulad ng pinakita ng 20 kababaihan ng Malolos noon, manatili rin sana kayong uhaw at gutom sa kaalaman. Stay hungry for knowledge.”

Villanueva also cited his contributions to BulSU, including the establishment of the first publicly funded School of Medicine in Region III through the Doktor para sa Bayan law, which he principally authored and sponsored during the 18th Congress. He also facilitated the construction of additional facilities to support the university’s growing needs.

He concluded his speech with a heartfelt appeal to the graduates:

“Graduates, ang inyong edukasyon ay hindi lang para sa inyong sarili, kundi para sa inyong pamilya, kapwa, at higit sa lahat sa ating minamahal na bayan,” Villanueva said.

Olivia Caunan