BENGUET Rep. Eric Yap has filed a measure aimed at institutionalizing and enhancing the Skills Certificate Equivalency Program to expand opportunities for technically skilled workers in government service.

Under House Bill 8639, Yap proposes granting civil service eligibility to holders of National Certificates issued by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), addressing long-standing barriers faced by certified workers seeking government employment.

The lawmaker noted that while the Constitution mandates that civil service appointments be based on merit and fitness, many competent and technically trained individuals remain ineligible for regular government positions due to the lack of formal civil service credentials.

Yap said this gap creates a disconnect between proven technical competence and access to public sector roles.

The proposed measure aims to bridge this divide by recognizing TESDA-issued National Certificates as a valid basis for civil service eligibility, subject to standards that will be jointly set by the Civil Service Commission and TESDA.

The bill also mandates both agencies to identify and regularly update government positions that may require eligibility through relevant TESDA certifications, ensuring that qualification standards keep pace with evolving workforce demands.

Yap said the measure promotes equal opportunities for graduates of technical-vocational education and training, uplifts the dignity of middle-skilled workers, and strengthens the professionalization of the civil service.

“At the same time, it enhances the government’s capacity to recruit competent, industry-certified individuals in technical positions, thereby improving the efficiency and quality of public service delivery,” he added.