New Tesda chief to create ‘future-proof’ labor force

Rep. Jose Francisco Benitez. | PHOTO: Official website of Cong. Kiko Benitez / kikobenitez.com

BACOLOD CITY — The new director of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) has expressed hopes to create a “future-proof” labor force that can adapt to the current and emerging trends in the labor market.

Francisco “Kiko” Benitez, who officially assumed his post during the 30th anniversary rites of Tesda at the World Trade Center in Pasay City on Aug. 19, stressed the need to promote agility and ensure that our workforce would be flexible, adaptable, and responsive to changes in technology, industries, and economic conditions.

“By equipping our workforce with skills that can compete in the global market, we ensure their success in the fields of employment and entrepreneurship,” he said in his speech.

“We need to reskill and upskill our youth and workforce to take on new jobs. We need to develop new skill sets to match the requirements of the job market,” he added.

Benitez, who represented Negros Occidental’s third district at the House of Representatives prior to his appointment as Tesda chief, said President Marcos Jr. saw the importance of TVET (technical and vocational education and training) in enhancing the employability of the workforce.

“Our TVET system must continue to evolve – because our information and skills needs are evolving and the job market is changing,” he said.

Throughout its 30 years of existence, Benitez said Tesda has empowered millions of Filipinos through quality technical-vocational education and training.

He said Tesda would further strengthen its partnerships with the private sector, training and education sector, and government agencies “to provide innovative and comprehensive services for our workforce.”

“We will create clearer pathways and opportunities for career development and continuing education programs,” he said.

“Together, we will build a stronger nation, where every Filipino has the opportunity to reach their full potential and contribute to our country’s progress,” he added.

President Marcos appointed Benitez as the new director general of the Tesda on Aug. 16 following the resignation of Suharto Mangudadatu.

Benitez, who has a doctorate in Philosophy, is known for championing legislation that promotes new development paradigms.

In a statement, Malacañang said Benitez’s advocacy for digital transformation, education reform, and technological innovation would be crucial in steering Tesda’s programs to meet the demands of the evolving job market and the Fourth Industrial Revolution.