The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has signed a memorandum of agreement with Daikin on Thursday, July 15, with the goal of upskilling the country's air conditioning industry.
"By upskilling our countrymen, the higher quality of work in both installation and servicing will be guaranteed. Increasing the number of capable installers is also the key to serve the untapped market. We can also take advantage of the latest energy-efficient technology," TESDA Secretary Isidro Lapeña said.
Daikin President Takayoshi Miki described the MOA signing as a big step forward for Daikin having TESDA as its partner.
"From now on, we will work with TESDA to develop the latest installation training program and make it mandatory national certification, and also renovate TESDA training facilities as well as provide trainees with high-quality installation tools," he said.
TESDA, as part of the agreement, will provide a building inside the TESDA complex in Taguig that Daikin will transform into a state-of-the-art Heating, Ventilation, and Air conditioning (HVAC) Center through developing and implementing higher-level qualification training programs to produce individuals who are skilled in air-condition installation and servicing.
TESDA said the Japanese company allotted a maximum of four months to convert the building into an innovation site.
"After the renovation, the public can expect a new Training Regulation in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, as well as the modernized venue for training, not just for new learners, but also for professionals who want to upgrade their existing skills," it said.
Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Kazuhiko Koshikawa, who witnessed the signing, congratulated TESDA and Daikin for the partnership.
"The establishment of this joint training program for Filipino air condition installers and technicians comes at a very opportuned time. It will aid in retooling of many Filipino workers and serve to fill in the gap in the labor market. I sincerely congratulate TESDA and Daikin Philippines on successfully forging this partnership," he said.
TESDA said the project of the TESDA Regional Training Center - NCR with Daikin will soon be adapted by other regions.