SEN. Erwin Tulfo sought clarification from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) regarding reports of Filipino workers allegedly being denied employment overseas due to the non-recognition of their qualifications.

During a Senate hearing, Tulfo asked TESDA officials whether the agency has data on Filipinos who were not accepted for jobs abroad because their certifications—particularly those obtained through TESDA training—were not recognized overseas.

“Do we have data on Filipinos who were not accepted to work abroad because their qualifications were not recognized, especially those who underwent training with TESDA?” Tulfo inquired.

TESDA officials responded that, as of now, the agency has not received any reported cases of its certifications being rejected abroad.

They told the panel that no reports have been submitted regarding the non-recognition of TESDA-issued credentials, emphasizing that TESDA certifications are generally recognized in other countries.

Director Reynaldo Lorenzo likewise affirmed that, to his knowledge, TESDA certificates—particularly those used by workers in caregiving, hotel, and restaurant industries—are acknowledged overseas.

He added that foreign employers and relevant authorities verify the authenticity of TESDA-issued credentials, and so far, no confirmed cases of non-recognition have been reported to the agency.

Tulfo welcomed the update, describing it as good news for Filipino workers seeking employment abroad.

“That’s good news. So far, I also haven’t heard of any problems. Once they pass the tests, they are accepted,” the senator said, before thanking TESDA officials for their clarification.