TESDA opens new robotics, CNC facilities in Cordillera

February 11, 2026

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority has opened its Robotics and Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Manufacturing Areas at the Cordillera State Institute of Technical Education (CSITE), strengthening advanced manufacturing and Industry 4.0–ready training in the region. TESDA Secretary Kiko Benitez led the facility’s launch at the CSITE Main Campus in Baguio City, marking a major step in expanding access to high-level technical skills aligned with current and emerging industry needs. In his message, Sec. Kiko emphasized the importance of industry-driven training to ensure that technical and vocational education and training (TVET) lead to real employment outcomes. “Our goal is simple but urgent: training that leads to real jobs. Strong partnerships with industry ensure that the skills we develop are the skills employers actually need,” Sec. Kiko said. “A bigger investment comes with bigger responsibility. Every peso must translate to meaningful skills, better employment outcomes, and long-term opportunities for our learners,” the TESDA chief added, highlighting the agency’s 2026 budget. The opening coincided with the 7th Founding Anniversary celebration of CSITE, themed “Building Competence, Shaping Futures,” which brought together national and local government officials, industry partners, educators, and stakeholders to mark seven years of institutional growth and collaboration in the Cordillera. During the event, Sec. Kiko led TESDA’s signing of its Memoranda of Understanding with John Hay Management Corporation, MOOG Controls Corporation, and Baguio City Country Club. The partnerships aim to strengthen enterprise-based education and training, micro-credential programs, apprenticeships, and the development of industry-aligned curricula. The program also featured the awarding of enterprise-based education and training, and micro-credential course certifications to partner institutions, the official introduction of the new CSITE Hymn, and the launch of the Connect, Secure, Involve, Train, and Employ (C.S.I.T.E.) Project. The opening of CSITE’s Robotics and CNC Manufacturing Areas aligns with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to expand TVET in the country, especially by modernizing training facilities, enhancing skills development, and ensuring workforce readiness for industry demands under his administration’s Bagong Pilipinas agenda. The TESDA chief was joined by Deputy Directors General Vidal Villanueva III, Nelly Nita Dillera and Felizardo Colambo, other TESDA officials, and partners from the private sector in the Cordillera Administrative Region during the event.