Strategic Local Development in Rodriguez, Rizal: Enhancing Local Industries and Educational Institutions for Sustainable Employment

Abstract

Rodriguez, Rizal—historically a relocation hub for informal settlers—has become increasingly residential but lacks corresponding employment growth, resulting in widespread commuter labor. Residents face long travel times, social strain, and limited access to local employment due to mismatches between labor skills and local job availability. This study explores how local industries and educational institutions can be strategically developed to foster sustainable employment and reduce commuter dependency. Using a qualitative-descriptive research design, the study employed thematic analysis of responses from 10 purposively selected stakeholders, including local business owners, local government officials, and academic administrators. Data were collected through open-ended questionnaires and analyzed using Braun and Clarke's six-phase framework to identify recurring themes related to employment generation and educational alignment with labor market needs. Findings revealed key strategies for local industry development, including the utilization of agricultural resources, support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and the establishment of local economic zones. On the educational side, stakeholders emphasized industry-academe collaboration, contextualized curricula, and community-based technical-vocational education. These approaches align with the Four Pillars of Sustainability—economic, environmental, social, and human—and highlight the potential for place-based development to improve job accessibility and community resilience. The study concludes that strategic local development in Rodriguez requires coordinated actions from the government, industry, and educational sectors. Enhanced infrastructure, policy support for entrepreneurship, and responsive education systems are essential to address labor-market mismatches. When institutionalized through policy and community participation, these efforts can foster sustainable, inclusive growth within the municipality.