The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) announced on Friday, Nov. 22, that it has partnered with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to enhance skills training and boost the employability of Filipinos.

The partnership, TESDA said, aims to create a more integrated approach to employment facilitation, skill development, and labor market information, supporting the goals of the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, the Philippine Labor and Employment Plan 2023-2028, and the National Technical Education and Skills Development Plan 2023-2028.

A joint memorandum circular and data-sharing agreement to strengthen skills training, career guidance, and employment support for workers were signed on Nov. 13.

“The JMC will strengthen and support skills and career development, expand access to employment, and cultivate sustainable livelihood opportunities,” TESDA Secretary Jose Francisco Benitez said.

According to TESDA, the JMC outlines a framework for the two agencies to harmonize such programs as career counseling, soft skills training, technical-vocational education, and job-matching services through PhilJobNet and TESDA’s registry of certified workers.

The integration is expected to enhance workforce readiness, address job-skills mismatch, and improve access to employment opportunities for Filipino job seekers nationwide, it added.

“Recognizing our joint mission in skills development, we welcome the convergence of TESDA and DOLE’s relevant TVET initiatives. By pooling resources and providing targeted training interventions tailored to the needs and preferences of our beneficiaries, we can make a meaningful impact in boosting the skills and competencies of Filipino workers,” Benitez said.*PNA