Taguig city: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) have entered into a memorandum of agreement aimed at supporting Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) households transitioning from the conditional cash transfer program. The agreement was signed on Friday at the TESDA central office in Taguig City, in a ceremony led by DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian and TESDA Director General Jose Francisco Benitez. This partnership marks a significant step in inter-agency efforts to reduce poverty by equipping families with essential livelihood and employment skills.
According to Philippines News Agency, the agreement outlines that TESDA will provide scholarship slots, skills training, and certification opportunities to eligible 4Ps beneficiaries. The DSWD will play a crucial role in identifying and referring participants who meet the criteria. This collaboration underscores the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s dedication to empowering Filipino families through skills-based development, highlighting the impact of government convergence on long-term poverty alleviation.
Gatchalian emphasized the importance of this partnership in moving away from a culture of dependency and towards one that empowers individuals to reach their potential. He noted that by 2026, an estimated 1.8 million households are expected to exit the 4Ps program, including over 1 million Senior High School graduates who will be seeking employment or further training. "Through this MOA, our 4Ps beneficiaries -- especially our senior high school graduates -- will have better access to skills training and certification programs, which are valuable tools that can open more doors to employment, stable income, and a life of dignity," Gatchalian stated.
Benitez highlighted the transformative potential of education in his remarks, stressing the role of the agreement in empowering individuals. "Education is what realizes and extends human potential. It can transform individuals into empowered citizens, and transform empowered citizens with an empowered community and nation. This MOA between TESDA and DSWD is all about giving people a solid chance to steer the course of their own lives with poise and dignity," he said.
