The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said the Philippines can harness its demographic dividend by strategically investing in lifelong learning, fostering job creation, and enhancing employability. During a high-level meeting for this year’s World Population Day (WPD), NEDA Undersecretary Rosemarie G. Edillon said such initiatives are crucial for achieving the objectives outlined in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028. Edillon, who took part in a panel discussion during the event last July 11, discussed ways in which stakeholders can collectively contribute to maximizing the demographic dividend of the Philippines. She said NEDA has outlined a comprehensive range of plans, programs, and policies in the PDP to effectively synchronize national and local development plans with the ongoing demographic transition. Edillon said these initiatives are designed to guarantee equitable access to essential social services, enhance employability prospects, and provide robust social protection for all Filipinos. The NEDA official also mentioned that this framework has been cascaded to the regional level. Furthermore, it is crucial to address the various challenges arising from the demographic transition at the municipal and city levels. During the keynote address, delivered by Edillon on behalf of NEDA Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan, a strong emphasis was placed on the government's commitment to key priorities. These include the eradication of poverty, the promotion of lifelong learning and transformative education, the provision of accessible healthcare, the pursuit of gender equality, and the fostering of sustainable economic growth. During the event, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) released its annual report, the State of the World Population, to commemorate the milestone of the global population surpassing the eight billion mark. “As the world’s population surpasses 8 billion, it is essential that we take on the complexities of our changing reality and approach these concerns with depth, empathy, and evidence-based solutions,” Balisacan said in his statement. The WPD celebration was led by the Commission on Population and Development, in partnership with the Philippine Legislators’ Committee on Population and Development, and the UNFPA.