REGION IV-A (CALABARZON) emerged as the overall champion of WorldSkills Philippines Clark 2026, leading 18 participating regions with an impressive 17-medal haul during the nationwide technical-vocational competition held from September 7 to 11.
Competing in 29 of the 30 skill categories, CALABARZON secured the top spot by bagging seven gold, four silver, and three bronze medals, alongside three Medallions for Excellence (MFE).
Region XI (Davao Region) claimed first runner-up honors with 16 medals (five gold, three silver, five bronze, and three MFE), while the National Capital Region (NCR) finished second runner-up with 15 medals (four gold, three silver, two bronze, and six MFE).
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Director General Secretary Kiko Benitez commended all young participants, highlighting that technical-vocational expertise remains a cornerstone of the country’s workforce and international reputation.
“To every young Filipino who stood at a station this week with steady hands and a racing heart — congratulations. You did not fail. You competed,” Benitez said. “Filipino skill has always been our quiet superpower.”
He emphasized that technical excellence is built through continuous practice and experience, pointing to Filipino seafarers, welders, technicians, hospitality workers, and machinists who drive industries both locally and abroad.
In addition to medals and official certificates, top performers received monetary awards: ₱30,000 for gold medalists, ₱20,000 for silver, and ₱15,000 for bronze.
The event, themed “Your Skills, Your Future,” supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to cultivate globally competitive, industry-aligned labor skills.
The closing ceremony concluded with Region III (Central Luzon) officially handing over hosting duties for WorldSkills Philippines 2027 to Region IX (Zamboanga Peninsula).
Benitez revealed that the 2027 edition will adopt a multi-venue format, expanding participation across high schools, technical-vocational institutions, higher education institutions, and state universities nationwide.
