SENATE President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda on Tuesday shared her vision for the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority as it nears its third decade of existence.

The senator praised the agency for being at the forefront of web-based education through the TESDA Online Program, which has produced 3,220,912 course completions in 2022 alone.

“I want to envision TESDA expanding even further — where every Filipino has the opportunity to acquire the skills and tools they need to pursue their dreams and contribute to national progress,” Legarda said.

“Upskilling and reskilling must be an option that is available to all. We must transform lives beyond the limitations of social and economic boundaries. TESDA has a large role to play in answering the demands of the labor sector and in shaping a labor force that is responsive, fit, and adaptive,” she added.

Legarda sought the passage of Senate Bill No. 6, which will create the Department of Technical Education, Training and Certification.

She said the bill will strengthen the role of the TESDA to serve as a leading partner in the development of the Filipino workforce.

“The world is changing at a rapid pace — technology, automation, and digitalization are reshaping industries and demanding new skill sets,” the senator said.

“TESDA must be at the center of this. Our businesses and industries must connect with our educational institutions to assess, plan, and strategize our approach to providing quality technical-vocational education,” she added.