Laoag city: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced that the government has allocated nearly PHP19 billion for the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority's (TESDA) scholarship programs this year, marking the largest budget in the agency's history. This announcement was made during the TESDA Ilocos Norte National Certification (NC) II mass graduation ceremony at the Ilocos Norte National High School.

According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos emphasized that the record funding aims to expand access to skills training, thereby creating better employment opportunities for more Filipinos. He reiterated a point from his previous State of the Nation Address, stating that the country's most valuable resource is its people. Marcos highlighted that investing in the capacities of Filipinos is an investment in stronger families, a more vibrant economy, and a better future for the nation. This year's historic budget allocation for TESDA underscores this commitment.

Marcos noted that TESDA is continuing to expand its upskilling initiatives, including the Enterprise-Based Education and Training program, to better prepare graduates for employment. He also highlighted the government's efforts to increase funding for the Tulong Trabaho Scholarship Program and expand the TESDA Online Program. These efforts aim to benefit students who face challenges in attending in-person training sessions.

The President further elaborated on TESDA's efforts to strengthen its Technical and Vocational Education and Training programs through micro-credentialing. This initiative is designed to accelerate skills training and certification, ensuring that Filipino workers meet global standards. Marcos expressed that these programs are part of a broader goal to open up more opportunities for every Filipino willing to work hard to improve their lives.

During the ceremony, a total of 1,150 TESDA scholars completed NC II training in dressmaking and bartending. The NC II certification is an acknowledgment of intermediate-level competencies in various trades, enhancing the graduates' competitiveness in the job market.