August 06, 2025
As the WorldSkills ASEAN Manila 2025 skills competition draws near, more leaders from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are stepping forward to voice their strong support for the event.
Officials from ASEAN member states have reaffirmed their confidence in the Philippines’ hosting of the international competition, and underscored the growing importance of technical vocational education and training (TVET) in building a future-ready ASEAN workforce.
“WorldSkills is more than just a competition. It is a powerful platform that celebrates dedication, hard work, creativity, and lifelong learning. It is a place where youth are empowered to rise to their full potential, and open doors to new aspirations and global connections,” said Hajah Norazlina Othman, Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Academic) of Brunei Darussalam’s Institute of Technical Education.
Isabel De Lima, Director of the National Institute of Workforce Development of Timor-Leste, highlighted the regional value of the competition: “We reaffirm our dedication to the shared ASEAN values of inclusivity, unity, and professional advancement. This competition serves as a critical avenue for promoting skills mobility, cultural exchange, and regional solidarity.”
Chan Vichet, Deputy Director of Cambodia’s Department of Technical Vocational Education and Training, described the event as central to national development: “Our support and participation in the WorldSkills ASEAN Competition is a key strategy in our reform program. Collaboration with the ASEAN College is a crucial factor in both our national success and the overall success of the region.”
Further, Zuleah Binti Darsong, Director General of the Department of Skills Development at Malaysia’s Ministry of Human Resources, echoed this optimism: “We believe in the Philippines' capability to host a successful and inspiring event. Together, we are shaping a skilled and resilient ASEAN.”
The WorldSkills ASEAN Manila 2025 will gather hundreds of young skilled professionals, experts, and officials from 10 ASEAN member states to compete in 32 skill areas such as Mechatronics, Web Development, Cooking, Welding, and more. The event will also serve as a platform to promote innovation, boost awareness of the value of skills, and strengthen regional partnerships in workforce development.
Additionally, this is the second time the Philippines is hosting the regional skills competition since 1996, and this year’s event underscores the country’s commitment to championing TVET and showcasing Filipino hospitality, excellence, and leadership on the ASEAN stage.
As preparations move full steam ahead, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), together with its partners and the ASEAN community, is set to deliver a competition that not only celebrates excellence but also inspires a generation of skilled professionals.
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