SULTAN Kudarat Rep. Princess Rihan Mangudadatu Sakaluran is pushing for a measure creating the Department of Technical Education and Skills Development.

Sakaluran’s House Bill 9903 or the proposed Department of Technical Education and Skills Development Act aims to repeal Republic Act 7796 or the Technical Education And Skills Development Authority or TESDA Act of 1994.

In her explanatory note, the solon said TESDA has aimed to set the direction, promulgate relevant standards, and implement programs geared towards a quality-assured and inclusive technical education and skills development and certification system for the country’s technical-vocational education and training system.

The lawmaker said changes in government priorities due to changes in administration often resulted in disruptions to TESDA’s operations, delays in the implementation of programs, and challenges in maintaining continuity and coherence in policy and programmatic efforts.

The bill aims to provide TESDA with the necessary institutional framework, authority, and resources to effectively carry out its mandate in a sustained and coherent manner.

The creation of DTESD is envisioned to address the ever-changing labor landscape and its frequent transfers between different government offices.

“By consolidating efforts in TVET development under a single department, the bill seeks to streamline governance, enhance coordination, and ensure the continuity and effectiveness of policies and programs aimed at developing a skilled and globally competitive workforce in the Philippines.