CEBU CITY, Philippines – In order for the Philippines to remain globally competitive in the human resource sector, both the government and private sector are being urged to invest in education, particularly in boosting more post-graduate programs.

“There is a need for the Philippines to prepare for changes in human resource competitiveness trends in the next few years. Global companies are now factoring in post-graduate degree holders as more competitive than college graduates,” said renowned international strategist Brian To.

To, who is a senior Fellow at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, and works in various Fortune 500 corporations as management adviser for over 25 years, said that if the Philippines will not capitalize on investing in more post-graduate programs, the country may lose global employment opportunities in the next few years.

“There is no doubt that Filipinos are the most in-demand human resource in the world because of their work ethics and quick adaptability to culture, working environment, strong collaboration attitude, and cheerful disposition. Still college graduates now are encouraged to take up post-raduate studies and boost their competitiveness,” To stressed.

The trend in the future, he said, will see competition in the workforce as not only gauged by skills and attitude, but also by strong academic credentials and advanced educational backgrounds.

He said he understands that due to financial constraints, Filipino college graduates usually immediately pursue a career instead of enrolling in post-graduate courses. In the Philippines, taking up post-graduate studies are deemed expensive for many.

However, To noted that countries like India and China are now beefing up efforts to improve their educational system by introducing more post-graduate programs. “These countries are preparing their next generation workforce to compete globally,” he added.

He said he is “optimistic” that the Filipino workforce will continue to be considered the “crème of the crop” since Filipinos are also known as innovators and creative designers and excel highly in the medical profession business.

To was in Cebu recently to promote the upcoming charitable business workshop to be held in March, 3012, called “Strategy Formulation Seminar: A Charity Event.”