PMAP-Cebu notes key trends in HR for 2025

CEBU CITY – People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP)-Cebu Chapter noted some key trends in human resource (HR) management as it transitions from “Rehumanize IT” in 2024 to “Enablement” in 2025.

Human resource (HR) theme in 2024 was “rehumanizing IT” with emphasis on the need to balance technological advancements with empathy and emotional intelligence. The pandemic accelerated technology, raising questions about maintaining human connections in the workplace and the focus was on balancing innovation with the human aspect of work to ensure meaningful human connections, Nilda Ravina, PMAP immediate Past president shared these insights, in her presentation at the PMAP 1^st General Membership Meeting (GMM) and Induction of 2025 Officers on February 1 at Seda Ayala, Business Park in Cebu City.

“In 2025, the theme shifts to "enablement," focusing on equipping individuals and organizations to face future challenges.  The concept of enablement evolved from “rehumanizing IT” that aims to ensure individuals and organizations are skilled, agile, and prepared for the future,” Ravina said.

The focus is on enabling people to thrive in a world where technology plays a central role but humanity remains the guiding force and the power of transformation lies in humanizing every decision and innovation in a landscape of constant technological disruption, she added.

The shift towards “enablement” is about creating meaningful, long-lasting change that impacts every individual in the organization because true success is measured by the positive impact of decisions on people's lives, enriching communities, and fostering a sense of purpose and belonging.

Organizations should embed human-centered values into their strategies to build workplaces that prioritize well-being, inclusivity, and sustainability and HR plays a pivotal role in driving enablement, focusing on key trends in 2025, Ravina noted.

Jan Mark Gellez, PMAP-Cebu president, in his opening message shared this year’s PMAP theme, “Enablement: Innovation, Resilience, and Growth in a Fast-Changing Environment” which captures the organization’s behavior towards the emerging key trends in HR for 2025.

“In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, organizations must not only adapt but also lead with agility, creativity, and strength.  As leaders, our role is to enable our people giving them the tools, knowledge, and support to navigate change with confidence. Innovation will drive us forward, helping us rethink traditional approaches and embrace new possibilities,” Gellez said.

Key Trends in HR for 2025

In Ravina’s presentation, she listed several key trends that include AI and automation; remote and hybrid work models; mental health support and stress reduction programs; diversity, equity and inclusion; skills development and lifelong learning, among others.

She said that Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation will continue to be integral to streamlining HR functions, making HR teams more efficient, data-driven, and agile. Automation will help eliminate administrative tasks, freeing up time for HR professionals to focus on strategic priorities like talent development and employee engagement.

HR professionals need to be well-versed in AI and automation tools to harness these technologies for organizational efficiency and proactively equipping the workforce with the knowledge and skills to stay ahead of technological threats is crucial.

Remote and Hybrid Work Models. The hybrid work model is here to stay, Ravina said, with employees having the option to work from home for activities that can be done remotely. HR leaders need to ensure remote and hybrid teams remain engaged, productive, and collaborative.

"Managing a dispersed workforce requires new approaches to communication, performance management, and team building.  HR's role is to foster a sense of connection and belonging despite geographical distances, ensuring employees feel supported, valued, and empowered,” she added.

Employee Well-being and Mental Health. Mental health support and stress reduction programs are becoming top priorities for organizations to foster a sustainable, productive workforce. HR needs to champion a holistic approach to well-being, offering employees tools and resources for mental, physical, and emotional health, Ravina continued.

She noted that investing in comprehensive wellness programs, including counseling, stress management workshops, and flexible work options, is essential, ensuring employees have access to resources to thrive both personally and professionally is crucial.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Diversity, equity, and inclusion also remain a focus in 2025, with organizations implementing comprehensive DEI strategies beyond recruitment and HR's role in DEI involves not just attracting diverse talent but also fostering an inclusive culture where all employees feel valued and empowered.

Implementing policies that promote fairness, equal opportunities for advancement, and support for marginalized groups is necessary and organizations must ensure that DEI efforts are integrated into all aspects of the workplace, from talent acquisition to leadership opportunities.

Skills development and Lifelong Learning. “In today's fast-paced business environment, job roles are continuously evolving, requiring continuous learning, reskilling, and upskilling.  Organizations must focus on ongoing employee development to ensure their workforce has the skills needed to meet future demands,” Ravina added.

Ravina said that HR should prioritize learning and development programs that empower employees to grow alongside technological advancements. Personalized learning and development programs that address growing needs in the organization are essential for success.

“By embracing innovation, nurturing resilience, and fostering continuous growth, organizations can create environments where people excel both personally and professionally.  In 2025, the focus is on technology and people working in tandem, prioritizing human-centered strategies. HR can enable organizations to navigate complexities and lead with purpose and impact. Together, organizations can embrace the journey of enablement, ensuring they are equipped for future transformation,” JM Gellez concluded. (Photos: MBCNewman)