By Cristina Arayata
MANILA – The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on Tuesday vowed to widen access to skills training, as the agency scored top trust and approval ratings in the recent PUBLiCUS survey.
“Patuloy naming palalawakin ang access sa de-kalidad na skills training, palalakasin ang ugnayan sa industriya, at sisiguraduhing mas maraming Pilipino ang magkakaroon ng pagkakataong matuto, makakuha ng sertipikasyon, at magkaroon ng mas magandang oportunidad sa trabaho at kabuhayan (We will continue strengthening access to quality skills training and boost industry partnerships to ensure more Filipinos will get the opportunity to learn, get certified and land a good job and livelihood options),” TESDA Secretary Jose Francisco Benitez was quoted in a news release.
PUBLiCUS Asia Inc.’s PAHAYAG survey, conducted from Oct. 1-4, 2026, showed TESDA registered a 59 percent approval rating and 41 percent trust rating, the most approved and trusted government agency for 16 consecutive quarters.
Benitez said the results reinforce the agency’s responsibility to deliver accessible, relevant and quality technical-vocational education and training.
TESDA, according to Benitez, is pursuing reforms that connect skills training with employment opportunities while making learning more accessible to Filipinos.
Under his leadership, TESDA has strengthened skills development and expanded access to industry-relevant training through innovative initiatives like the Skills Passport, digital and artificial intelligence courses, the Train LOKAL (localized opportunities for knowledge access and lifelong learning) program, and multi-industry partnerships.
“It is also strengthening education pathways through the One Education initiative with DepEd (Department of Education) and CHED (Commission on Higher Education) to strengthen coordination across the education and training sectors and establish clearer pathways from learning to employment,” the news release said. (PNA)
