Last November 13, TESDA Director General, Secretary Jose Francisco “Kiko” B. Benitez and DOLE Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma signed the said agreements as part of the TESDA Board Meeting in Taguig City.
The collaboration 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.
The JMC outlines a framework for DOLE and TESDA to harmonize programs such 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.
In his message, Secretary Benitez emphasized that the JMC will strengthen and support skills and career development, expand access to employment, and cultivate sustainable livelihood opportunities.
The TESDA chief also expressed the agency’s commitment to deepening TESDA’s partnership with DOLE specifically on labor market intelligence and skills needs forecasting, which includes data collection analysis, and harmonization of information systems.
“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,” Secretary Benitez said.
Meanwhile, Secretary Laguesma expressed his gratitude to TESDA highlighting that the partnerships bridge the gap between technical training and employment, and align the government’s efforts to equip Filipinos with the skills needed in a competitive global economy.
“This JMC bridges the gap between technical training and employment, enhancing the career development, training, and livelihood programs provided by DOLE and TESDA. Together, we align with the objectives of the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, the Philippine Labor and Employment Plan 2023-2028, and NTESDP 2023-2028,” Secretary Laguesma said.
Also present during the signing ceremony were TESDA Deputy Directors General Vidal D. Villanueva III and Nelly Nita N. Dillera, Labor Undersecretary Carmela I. Torres, other TESDA and DOLE key officials, and members of the TESDA Board.
