TACLOBAN CITY – The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA-8) reported an impressive employment rate of 80% among its 57,706 graduates the region for this year, showcasing the impact of its industry-driven technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programs.
Speaking during the weekly ‘Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas’, Vivian Abueva, TESDA assistant regional director, highlighted that the certification rate of their graduates reached an exceptional 96.32%, with eight out of ten now employed both within and outside the region.
“These graduates are now contributing to the productivity, quality, and global competitiveness of the country’s middle-level skilled workforce. This underscores the quality of education and training we provide in the region,” she said.
TESDA-8 also noted the significant contribution of its 26,896 scholarship program graduates in 2024, which further enhanced access to TVET and encouraged more individuals to pursue technical education and skills development.
Abueva emphasized the necessity for the local workforce to adapt to the evolving demands of the labor market, particularly in the context of the ongoing digital shift.
She stressed the importance of upskilling and reskilling programs tailored to the needs of industries and local government units.
“The upskilling, reskilling, and retooling programs based on industry demand are vital to addressing job-skills mismatches and helping individuals secure employment,” Abueva added.
TVET programs aim to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills required for specific trades or professions, positioning them as a viable alternative to traditional academic paths like universities or colleges.
In a related development, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act No. 12063 in November, institutionalizing the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) Framework Act.
This legislation strengthens apprenticeship programs across the country, ensuring the educational system aligns with the dynamic demands of the labor market and helps bridge existing skills gaps in various industries.
TESDA-8’s initiatives reflect its commitment to building a skilled, adaptable workforce that meets the needs of the modern economy while providing opportunities for Filipinos to thrive in competitive job markets, Abueva said.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
