THE Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing an accessible, future-ready skills training system following President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s recognition of technical vocational education and training (TVET) during his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA).
In his address, President Marcos highlighted the strong employment outcomes of TVET graduates, noting an impressive 81 percent placement rate.
He also emphasized progressive, ladderized learning pathways—such as integrating tech-voc programs into Senior High School (SHS)—which enable learners to acquire job-ready skills while retaining the option to pursue higher education.
“Mabisang pambato rin sa buhay ang mga programa natin sa tech-voc o TVET,” President Marcos stated, pointing out that national certificates earned by graduates can serve as a foundation toward achieving a full college degree.
TESDA Secretary Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez noted that the President’s vision aligns with the administration’s “One Education” initiative.
The strategy promotes tighter collaboration among the Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and TESDA to build flexible, interconnected pathways from basic education to vocational training and university degrees.
“Ang tech-voc ay daan patungo sa iba’t ibang oportunidad. Trabaho, negosyo, continuing education—lahat yan posibleng magsimula sa TESDA,” Benitez said, envisioning a transformative era for Philippine education reform.
To support this direction, TESDA continues to offer free competency assessments and certifications for SHS learners.
Since launching the initiative in 2024, more than 369,000 SHS graduates have earned formal National Certificates, significantly improving their employability.
The agency also supports the TechPro track, designed to equip students with industry-relevant skills for workforce entry, entrepreneurship, or further studies.
Additionally, President Marcos commended the TESDA Skills Passport, a digital platform that allows Filipinos to access training credentials, discover scholarship opportunities, and connect with employment services.
Through ongoing partnerships with agencies like the Department of Labor and Employment, TESDA aims to make TVET information widely accessible, ensuring technical education remains a powerful pathway toward lifelong learning and inclusive economic development.
