Negros Occidental Rep. Jose Francisco Benitez is new Tesda chief

Newly-appointed Tesda head and Negros Occidental Rep. Jose Francisco Benitez. (File photo from the official website of  Rep. Benitez)

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday named Negros Occidental Rep. Jose Francisco “Kiko” Bantug Benitez as the new director general of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda).

Marcos named the lawmaker as the new Tesda chief after the resignation of Suharto Mangudadatu in July.

Malacañang cited Benitez’ experience as the chair of the House committee on housing and urban development, which gives him a “wealth of experience in education, development and public service.”

“His extensive academic background and commitment to sustainable development make him a well-suited head of Tesda,” the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said in a statement.

According to the PCO, Benitez has a doctorate in philosophy and is a known champion for promoting the legislation of new development paradigms balancing social equity, economic growth, and ecological sustainability.

“His advocacy for digital transformation, education reform, and technological innovation will be crucial in steering Tesda’s programs to meet the demands of the evolving job market and the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” the PCO noted.

“He will continue the administration’s commitment to upholding the vision of Tesda as a key player in nation-building by providing high-quality education and training to Filipino workers, particularly those in the most disadvantaged sectors of society,” it added.

Benitez, who will assume his new role immediately, is expected to outline his strategic priorities for Tesda in the coming weeks.

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Meanwhile, the Office of the President thanked Mangudadatu for his dedicated service and contributions to TESDA during his tenure.

Mangudadatu stepped down as Tesda chief to participate in the first parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao in 2025.