President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has officially kickstarted the nation’s preparations for World Skills (WS) ASEAN 2025 by forming a high-powered inter-agency task force that will oversee all efforts leading up to the regional event, to be held in Pasay City from August 26 to 28, 2025.
Through Administrative Order No. 34, signed on June 19, the President designated the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to lead the task force as chair, with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) serving as co-chair. Together, they will coordinate a nationwide effort to ensure the Philippines stages a world-class event.
World Skills ASEAN 2025 is expected to draw around 300 participants from all 10 ASEAN member countries, who will go head-to-head in 32 skill categories that reflect today’s most critical industries. The competition will take place at the World Trade Center in Pasay City—a venue that will become the epicenter of technical and vocational excellence in Southeast Asia.
The task force includes key figures from across government, ensuring a whole-of-nation approach. Members include the heads of the Departments of Agriculture, Education, Foreign Affairs, Health, Interior and Local Government, Public Works, Trade and Industry, Transportation, and Tourism, as well as the MMDA chair, PNP chief, and commissioners of Customs and Immigration.
TESDA will serve as the Task Force Secretariat, managing the day-to-day coordination and providing technical, operational, and administrative support. Funding for the initiative will be sourced from the existing budgets of participating agencies.
“This competition isn’t just about winning medals,” a TESDA spokesperson said. “It’s about showcasing Filipino talent, strengthening ASEAN unity, and raising the bar for vocational and technical skills across the region.”
The competition will span six major sectors:
Information and Communication Technology
Construction and Building Technology
Creative Arts and Fashion
Manufacturing and Engineering Technology
Social and Personal Services
Transportation and LogisticsWorld Skills ASEAN 2025 will not only spotlight regional talents but also help align ASEAN nations with global standards in vocational education. The event is seen as a catalyst for skills development and youth empowerment across Southeast Asia.
To make the event a true success, the government is calling on local government units and private sector partners to get involved in the preparation and hosting efforts. Their participation is seen as essential in creating a supportive and collaborative environment for this international showcase.
As the countdown begins, the Philippines stands ready to roll out the red carpet—not just for regional guests, but for the future of skills excellence in ASEAN.