Finland is actively seeking skilled workers from the Philippines to address critical labor shortages in sectors such as healthcare, information technology, green jobs, and other skilled professions, according to Finland’s newly appointed Ambassador to the Philippines, Saija Nurminen.
Ambassador Nurminen held a meeting with local stakeholders in Cebu recently to discuss Finland’s strategy to enhance bilateral engagement with the Philippines.
Highlighting the strategic reopening of the Finnish embassy in the Philippines four years ago, Nurminen emphasized Finland’s commitment to strengthening economic ties and leveraging the Philippines’ growing role in the region’s development.
“Jurisdictional expansion is a strategic move to be part of the region’s growth,” she noted.
Finland faces an aging population and a pressing need for specialized talent, prompting the Nordic nation to tap into the Philippines’ highly adaptable and multilingual workforce.
Nurminen pointed out that Filipinos’ proficiency in multiple languages, including the ability to learn Finnish, makes them ideal candidates for Finland’s labor market needs.
“Our experience of Filipino workers and their ability to learn the language is very good,” she said. “Most of you speak at least two languages, making it easier to learn additional languages.”
The ambassador’s visit underscores the potential for increased Filipino participation in Finland’s workforce, reinforcing the two countries’ deepening diplomatic and economic ties.
Jose Franco Soberano, Honorary Consul of Finland in the Visayas, welcomed Ambassador Nurminen in Cebu and stated that “her extensive experience and strategic vision will be instrumental in building stronger connections and fostering new partnerships.”
Ambassador Nurminen, who took office in September 2024, brings significant expertise in international diplomacy from her previous role as Director of the Personnel Unit at Finland’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs.
Her appointment marks a pivotal step in enhancing Finland-Philippines relations, aiming to create mutually beneficial opportunities for both nations.
Business News Asia
