SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian expressed disappointment over the low completion rate of Technical Vocational Education and Training programs in the National Capital Region, where only 20 students completed the course out of 2,000 available scholarship slots.

“It’s unfortunate because we gave them the scholarship and invested time in teaching, yet they didn’t finish,” Gatchalian said.

TESDA’s budget is set at ₱18.7 billion, with ₱10.6 billion allocated for scholarships.

TESDA Director General Kiko Benitez stressed the need to look beyond pandemic-related issues.

“We need to understand the full picture. Some students may intend to complete the program but opt for employment after receiving certain certifications in the first year,” Benitez explained.

In response, TESDA plans to ensure tech-voc institutions offer high-quality, targeted training programs aligned with local industry needs.

“We are requiring all registered TVIs to re-register their programs every five years. In 2022, many providers failed to comply because they didn’t integrate 21st-century skills into their curriculum,” said Deputy Director General Rosanna Urdaneta.

Despite a decline in TVET providers, TESDA remains committed to encouraging institutions to offer higher-level qualifications that meet local market demands, according to Benitez.

This approach aligns with recommendations from the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2), which advocates for expanding National Certification (NC) III and NC IV courses to provide more advanced skills training, thereby improving student employability and retention.

EDCOM 2 Commissioner Joel Villanueva echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that TESDA’s scholarship programs aim to equip young people with skills that lead directly to employment.