Pinoy workers globally competitive - TESDA

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LEGAZPI CITY — Filipino workers are world class, according to Technical Education and Skills Development Authority(TESDA) Director-General Joel Villanueva.

Villanueva has been in Bicol recently to visit various TESDA projects and attend the graduation of TESDA scholars in various technical and vocational skills training like single unit plumbing installation and repair maintenance work, dressmaking, maintenance and repair of electronically-controlled domestic appliances, manicure and pedicure services, ignition system servicing, and small engine servicing.

Villanueva said in an interview that the TESDA has played an important role in developing the skills of Filipino workers to make them globally competitive.

"In TESDA, the career path of young Filipino worker is assured as TESDA is the college of work because those who graduate from TESDA are assured of work," he said. The TESDA official also said that it is not bad to enroll in formal college education but, adding that in TESDA, one is given a choice of whether to pursue college education or technical vocational courses.

Villanueva said his office has been partnering with industry players to upgrade the courses the TESDA offers. He said much in demand are courses related to tourism like in Albay province under Governor Joey Sarte Salceda where the tourism industry is progressive. Also in demand are courses in automotive servicing, electronics, dressmaking and beauty care.

The TESDA, he said, has partnered with more than 500 companies in the country under the public-private partnership scheme. Villanueva said the TESDA has 4,500 technical and vocational schools in the country. He also called on the Bicolanos to patronize the TESDA online programs. - PNA