THE TECHNICAL  Education and Skills Development Authority is one of the most trusted government agencies, according to the latest survey of PUBLiCUS Asia.

According to the 2021 PAHAYAG Fourth Quarter Survey, TESDA was the second most trusted government agency with 46.1 percent trust ratings. It was behind the Armed Forces of the Philippines with 52.6 percent.

TESDA was followed by the Philippine Air Force with 45.7 percent trust rating.

The agency also ranked second in approval ratings with 67.7 percent. The AFP and PAF ranked first and third with approval ratings of 69.7 percent and 64.5 percent respectively.

The non-commissioned survey was conducted nationwide covering 1,500 respondents during the period of December 6-10, 2021.

TESDA has consistently been in the top of the surveys conducted by PUBLiCUS Asia. In the first quarter survey this year, the agency had the highest approval rating among government agencies — 62.1 percent. It had the second highest trust rating of 42.8 percent.

In the second and third quarter surveys, TESDA placed second in both approval and trust ratings.

This year, TESDA continued to provide skills training programs and interventions, especially to overseas Filipino workers and members of the marginalized sector.

As of December 2021, 26,989 OFWs and their dependents have enrolled in different TESDA courses, of which 25,579 finished their respective trainings.

Likewise, TESDA continues  to expand its online training program as more courses are now available in the platform.

As of November 2021, there were 115 courses in the TESDA Online Program.

TESDA chief Isidro Lapeña reiterated the agency’s commitment to provide quality and relevant skills training to Filipinos. He also vowed to improve services to reach more Filipinos.

“We have been consistent in the top of the surveys conducted by PUBLiCUS. I thank Filipinos for their continued support to TESDA as we continue to remain committed in delivering the services you needed amid the pandemic,” Lapeña said.