THE PHILIPPINES is seeking a $250-million package from the World Bank (WB) to upgrade Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
The project, to be implemented by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), aims to improve access, completion rates, and labor market relevance of TVET programs in targeted sectors and regions, according to a document uploaded on World Bank’s website.
The project is expected to be approved by March 23, 2026.
Other objectives of the project are imposing system-level reforms to strengthen the overall TVET framework, and targeted support in regions and sectors with growth potential and high need, such as those with high jobless rates, youth not in education, employment, or training, and Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program graduates.
“It will enhance trainee learning experiences and generate labor market-relevant skills, aligned with the project’s Theory of Change,” it said.
It also noted that TESDA only got about 0.32% of the P6.352-trillion government budget in 2025, with 60% going to scholarships for disadvantaged groups.
“Persistent underinvestment in skills training and constraints on employment opportunities limit the country’s potential and weaken its demographic advantage,” according to the document.
TVET is overseen primarily by TESDA, which was established under Republic Act. No. 7796 or Technical Education and Skills Development Act of 1994. — Justine Irish D. Tabile
