SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian underscored the need to equip Child Development Workers (CDWs) with quality training and upskilling opportunities to strengthen early childhood care and development programs nationwide.

Gatchalian made the statement following the ceremonial graduation of CDWs and the launch of Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) e-learning courses by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority in Naga.

The senator is the sponsor of the Early Childhood Care and Development System Act, or Republic Act No. 12199.

“Mahalaga ang papel ng ating mga Child Development Workers, lalo na’t sila ang nagbibigay kalinga at nagpapatatag ng pundasyon ng mga batang wala pang limang taong gulang,” Gatchalian said.

The ECCD law, which aims to ensure universal access to early childhood care for children below five years old, also provides for the national competency assessment, certification, reskilling, and upskilling of incumbent CDWs, as well as scholarships for their continuing education.

Gatchalian also noted that the 2026 national budget allocates PHP226.9 million for a scholarship program for incumbent CDWs.

The amount is included under TESDA’s Quality Technical Education and Skills Development Programs