SENATOR PUSHES FOR TESDA MODERNIZATION TO BOOST WORKFORCE COMPETITVENESS
/ 15 November 2025
SENATOR Joel Villanueva has introduced a bill seeking to modernize the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority to better meet the demands of today’s rapidly evolving labor market.
Villanueva’s Senate Bill 1449, also known as the TESDA Modernization Act, proposes repealing Republic Act 7796, the original TESDA law enacted in 1994.
“More than 30 years after its enactment, TESDA’s charter no longer fully addresses the needs of the modern workforce,” Villanueva said. “As underscored by the Second Congressional Commission on Education, it is crucial to revamp TESDA’s framework to effectively respond to current and emerging workforce challenges.”
The legislation aims to bridge gaps in technical education and skills development while aligning programs with national development objectives and international standards. It underscores the need for a high-quality, efficient, and accessible technical education system to cultivate a competent and globally competitive Filipino workforce.
According to Villanueva, modernizing TESDA will enhance technical training programs, ensure compliance with international best practices, and strengthen the country’s workforce competitiveness on the global stage.