March 31, 2026
Repatriated Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) from the Middle East get a chance for a fresh start with free Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) training programs designed to help them rebuild their livelihoods, gain new skills, and secure employment opportunities at home or abroad.
As part of its reintegration support, TESDA has already endorsed an initial 2,234 Certificates of Scholarship Grant Commitment to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), of which 413 have been distributed. An additional 6,000 slots are also in tow to accommodate more OFWs that may be affected by the conflict in the Middle East.
Aligned with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.'s directive to provide comprehensive assistance to displaced OFWs, TESDA is offering a wide range of skills training, assessment and certification programs to enhance employability, and open opportunities for local and overseas re-employment.
TESDA Secretary Kiko Benitez highlighted that the agency is working closely with the DMW and other government partners to ensure a whole-of-government approach in assisting affected OFWs, from repatriation to reintegration.
The TESDA chief added that the agency’s support for repatriated OFWs goes beyond immediate intervention and seeks to create long-term opportunities for employment and livelihood.
“Hindi biro ang sakripisyo ng ating OFWs para alagaan ang kani-kanilang mga pamilya. Itong free skills training at certification na ito ay isang paraan para tayo naman ang mag-alaga sa kanila, at tumulong sa kanilang makabangon at magsimula uli ngayong panahon ng krisis," Sec. Kiko said.
Repatriated OFWs may avail of training in various sectors such as construction, hospitality, caregiving and information technology, among others. TESDA is also facilitating entrepreneurship training to help returning workers start their own businesses and achieve financial independence.
Repatriated OFWs may present their Certificates of Scholarship Grant Commitment to any TESDA office nationwide to access free training programs and other related services, ensuring faster and more seamless enrollment.
Repatriated OFWs are encouraged to visit the nearest TESDA regional or provincial office to inquire about available programs and enrollment procedures.
Additionally, TESDA is also strengthening digital access for OFWs through the TESDA Skills Passport mobile app, which allows users to record skills and credentials, search for jobs, access learning pathways, browse scholarship opportunities, locate nearby training and assessment centers, and enroll in TESDA Online Program courses. The platform also features job matching, dashboard stories, an AI chatbot, and a job aggregator that consolidates listings from multiple job search sites.
As the government continues to monitor developments in the Middle East, TESDA reaffirms its commitment to empower Filipino workers through skills development, ensuring that no Filipino is left behind in times of crisis.
Share this page
