In his speech Benitez further stressed the need to “promote workforce agility and ensure that our workforce will be flexible, adaptable, and responsive to changes in technology, industries, and economic conditions”.

We need “to reskill and upskill our youth and workforce to take on new jobs. We need to develop new skill sets to match the requirements of the job market”, he said.

Benitez pointed out that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. highlighted in his State of the Nation Address the importance of TVET (technical and vocational education and training) in enhancing the employability of the workforce.

Throughout its 30 years TESDA has empowered millions of Filipinos through quality technical-vocational education and training, Benitez said.

“Our TVET system must continue to evolve – because our information and skills needs are evolving and the job market is changing,” he said.

Benitez also stressed that TESDA will further strengthen its partnerships with the private sector, training and education sector, and government agencies “to provide innovative and comprehensive services for our workforce”.

“We will create clearer pathways and opportunities for career development and continuing education programs,” he said.

“Together, we will build a stronger nation, where every Filipino has the opportunity to reach their full potential and contribute to our country’s progress,” he said.*