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The Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP), in partnership with the Asian Productivity Organization (APO), held the LIFT Inclusive Productivity Conference 2025 at Novotel Araneta Center, Cubao Quezon City, showcasing how inclusive productivity drive sustainable and equitable growth across the country. The conference gathered 150 participants from the government, academe, civil society, private sector, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), youth groups, and persons with disabilities (PWD) associations.

Participants of the LIFT Inclusive Productivity Conference 2025 held at Novotel Araneta Center, Quezon City.

The DAP President and CEO Dr. Leocadio S. Sebastian, in his opening message, affirmed that  inclusive productivity as an instrumental tool in national development. “Inclusive productivity is not just an aspiration, it is a collective responsibility,” he emphasized.

The APO Secretary-General Dr. Indra Pradana Singawinata and Senator Risa Hontiveros, in recorded messages, stressed that people-centered leadership and equitable access to opportunities are key drivers to inclusive progress.

Throughout the day, the sessions showcased inclusive approaches that underscored underserved and marginalized groups as key partners in driving productivity. The program featured interactive sessions, keynote messages, panel discussions, and presentations anchored on the four LIFT pillars: Learn, Innovate, Flourish, and Thrive.

Together We Learn

Dr. Cristina L. Santos presents community-based initiatives on breast cancer awareness and early detection.

Dr. Cristina L. Santos, President of Gift2Life Inc.,  presented on breast cancer awareness,  highlighting  the importance of early detection and family support. She emphasized breast cancer’s impact on productivity and well-being, noting the high burden in the Philippines and the consequences of stigma and delayed diagnosis. In her presentation, she also discussed the role of lifestyle, environmental factors, and mental health in cancer risk, highlighting how Gift2Life’s grassroots initiatives help improve early detection and reduce preventable deaths.

Together We Innovate

Ms. MK Bertulfo shares how digital platforms expand livelihood opportunities for Filipina mothers.

Ms. Maria Korina “MK” Bertulfo, Founder and CEO of Filipina Home-Based Moms (FHMoms), showcased how digital tools and online livelihood opportunities expand women’s economic participation. Aimed to uplift mothers who balance work and caregiving, FHMoms equip Filipina mothers with digital skills, income opportunities, and supportive networks. Bertulfo also shared her journey in building FHMoms into a 525,000-strong global community, highlighting adversities and its social impact. She encouraged Filipinas to own their growth by embracing digital work and continuous upskilling.

Together We Flourish

Ms. Ana Maria D. Dizon highlights trauma-informed and inclusive approaches for children and youth.

In uplifting vulnerable children, Ms. Ana Maria D. Dizon, Executive Director of My Children’s House of Hope (Bahay Bata 127 Inc.), emphasized the importance of trauma-informed care, psychosocial support, and strong partnerships. She highlighted that families, communities, and institutions in nurturing children and youth are critical foundations of an inclusive and productive society. Dizon also emphasized Bahay Bata 127’s commitment to child welfare and education, demonstrating how supportive and inclusive environments enable young people to reach their full potential, noting that equity-driven strategies, such as inclusive leadership, sound policies, and accessible education are essential for sustainable growth and social cohesion.

Together We Thrive

Ms. Monica D. Saliendres outlines DAP programs that broaden access to skills and technology.

Ms. Monica D. Saliendres, Vice President of the DAP Productivity and Development Center, outlined DAP’s capability-building, productivity diagnostics, and innovation programs that advance inclusive productivity for youth, MSMEs, and the public sector. She emphasized that DAP, as the National Productivity Organization, is committed to expanding access to skills, technology, and opportunities for women, PWDs, MSMEs, and underserved communities. She also presented key initiatives—from leadership development and digital upskilling to MSME support, service quality improvement, and regulatory reforms—that strengthen institutions and broaden participation in productivity gains, underscoring that inclusive productivity is a collective movement that uplifts people and builds thriving communities.

Panelists with their certificates at the conclusion of the Together We LIFT session.

A major highlight of the event was the Together We LIFT Panel Discussion, featuring Dandy C. Victa of the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), Director Jerome P. Yanson of the National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC), Eduardo D. Vargas (Meralco), and Ms. Maria Theresa Niña Espinola-Abogado (Oxfam Pilipinas). The panelists shared how disability inclusion, productivity programs, equitable energy access, and anticipatory action contribute to stronger communities and improved economic performance. Their insights proved that addressing social and economic barriers pave the way for inclusive productivity and national progress.

In his closing message, Armand Tristan R. Suratos,  APO/DAP Secretariat Head highlighted the importance of sustained, purposeful collaboration in advancing inclusive productivity. He expressed appreciation to participants, partners, and the PDC Project Team who were committed to championing productivity to benefit all Filipinos.

To continue the conversation, please join the Productivity Pilipinas Facebook Group, a community dedicated to sharing insights and opportunities on productivity improvement across the country. 

For more information on the DAP programs, training, and upcoming events, visit www.dap.edu.ph. To revisit the discussions and presentations, viewers may access the full conference replay on the DAP YouTube Channel.