Manila: The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in Negros Oriental is urging technical-vocational (tech-voc) graduates to register for the TESDA Skills Passport. The digital platform is designed to help job seekers find employment opportunities and training programs suited to their skills.

According to Philippines News Agency, TESDA Negros Oriental provincial chief Fletcher Gumahad made the call during a forum Wednesday. He emphasized that the Skills Passport is a useful tool for tech-voc students and graduates seeking jobs that match their qualifications. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. launched the Skills Passport registration in February to make information on available training programs and employment opportunities more accessible.

Gumahad highlighted the benefits of the Skills Passport, mentioning the government's investment to simplify the process through mobile phones. More information about the Skills Passport will be provided during the World Caf© of Opportunities on August 25, in celebration of National Tech-Voc Day. This event, featuring a job fair for local and overseas employment, will be held at Robinsons mall in Dumaguete.

Blanche Utzurrum, president of the Negros Oriental Association of TVET Institutions (NOATI) Inc., announced that scholars have already been informed about the event and were advised to bring their national certifications when applying for jobs. With 41 technical-vocational institutions in Negros Oriental, Utzurrum expects many graduates to participate in the World Caf© of Opportunities.

A career guidance desk will also be available during the event, featuring the TESDA Skills Compass for career orientation, skills matching, professional advancement, and support services. Meanwhile, Gumahad noted that some institutions in the province have begun implementing TESDA's diploma program, including Foundation University, Team Skills, and Metro Dumaguete College. The diploma program is a three-year course designed to lead to baccalaureate degrees.