TESDA leads multi-sector discussions on EBET law implementation

January 23, 2025

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) recently concluded a series of consultations with key stakeholders in the drafting of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) Framework Act (Republic Act 12063).

From January 14-20, TESDA gathered representatives from partner government agencies, industry, labor, academe, regional, and international development partners at the TESDA Women’s Center in Taguig City.

It can be recalled that last November 7, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. signed the EBET Law to consolidate existing enterprise-based training programs to address job-skills mismatches.

The law streamlines various EBET delivery modalities and enhances tax incentives for participating enterprises, encouraging more businesses to provide general EBET programs (on-the-job training leading to NC II certification), apprenticeships (for NC III certifications and above), and workforce upskilling opportunities.

It also underscores the importance of collaboration between TESDA and industry, acknowledging the critical role of enterprises in developing training programs tailored to the workforce requirements of key sectors, including IT-BPM, construction, manufacturing, transportation and logistics, creative industries, healthcare, energy, and tourism.

According to TESDA Director General, Secretary Jose Francisco “Kiko” B. Benitez, the consultation is a crucial step to ensure that the EBET Framework Act's IRR will be both practical and inclusive, reflecting the needs and inputs of all stakeholders.

“The EBET Act provides an opportunity to further strengthen our technical-vocational education system, particularly for senior high school students. By engaging our stakeholders, we ensure that the policies we implement align with industry standards, labor market demands, and the aspirations of our youth,” he said.

One of the key outcomes of the consultations was a shared commitment to foster innovation and agility within the TVET sector. Stakeholders expressed their support for TESDA’s vision of repositioning TVET to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing economic and technological landscape.

TESDA will consolidate the inputs from these consultations. The agency likewise remains steadfast in its mission to uplift the quality of education and training in the country, thereby empowering Filipinos to achieve gainful employment and contribute to nation-building.