PASAY CITY — The Institute for Labor Studies (ILS) conducted a key informant interview with representatives from the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) Foreign National Unit on 14 April 2025 in Pasay City, as part of its ongoing research titled “Technology and Skills Transfer through the Understudy Training Program (UTP) and Skills Development Program: Good Practices and Lessons Learned.”

The study aims to support policy implementation by examining how the UTP and related skills development initiatives facilitate to effective technology and knowledge transfer from foreign nationals to Filipino workers.

During the interview, research project lead Ms. Chelsea Pineda, together with team members Mr. Levie Mariano Jr. and Ms. Gena Francisco, presented the study’s objectives and scope. In turn, PEZA representatives shared valuable insights into the historical and policy context of the UTP, particularly its earlier function as a documentary requirement for the issuance of PEZA-sponsored visas.

This study is one of the 8 ongoing ILS research projects under its 2025 Research Agenda and will be presented at the annual DOLE Research Conference in October this year.

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