The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) have officially convened to bridge the gap between vocational training and market success. In a strategic planning session held recently, the two agencies outlined a roadmap to feature the outputs of TESDA trainees and graduates in DTI-led national trade fairs.
This collaboration marks a significant shift toward transforming technical-vocational graduates from skilled workers into thriving entrepreneurs. By providing a high-visibility platform for their products and services, the DTI and TESDA aim to ensure that Filipino craftsmanship reaches a broader, more diverse consumer base.
The meeting was anchored by key leaders from both agencies, focusing on the synergy between workforce development and market access:
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DTI Representation: Led by Nylah Rizza D. Bautista, Supervising Head of the Competitiveness and Innovation Group (CIG), alongside Director Lilian G. Salonga and Assistant Director Jo-Dann N. Darong of the Bureau of Market Development.
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TESDA Representation: Led by Deputy Director General Nelly Nita N. Dillera and Director Gio Franco Gomez, Executive Director of the Partnerships and Linkages Office.
The Bureau of Market Development, a core arm of the DTI, underscored its mandate to align workforce development with competitive industrial growth. By integrating TESDA graduates into the national trade fair circuit, the DTI provides a “laboratory for commerce” where trainees can test their products, gather market feedback, and build sustainable livelihoods.
The partnership seeks to address the “last mile” of vocational education: commercialization. While TESDA provides the technical expertise, the DTI provides the gateway to the economy.
“Our goal is to create stronger pathways where skills training doesn’t just end with a certificate, but translates directly into enterprise development and tangible market access for every Filipino,” stated the CIG leadership.
Key objectives of the collaboration:
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Market Exposure: Showcasing high-quality furniture, garments, processed food, and creative crafts produced by TESDA scholars.
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Livelihood Generation: Transitioning graduates from employment-seeking to business-owning roles.
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Quality Benchmarking: Helping trainees align their outputs with national quality standards and consumer trends.
The DTI and TESDA are currently identifying specific regional and national trade fairs for the 2026-2027 calendar year that will feature dedicated “TESDA Pavilions.” These exhibits will not only display products but also serve as a testament to the world-class skills of the Filipino workforce.
The CIG is dedicated to enhancing the Philippine business environment by fostering innovation, supporting MSMEs, and ensuring the Filipino workforce is equipped for the future of production.
