The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has announced the start Philippine National Skills Competition (PNSC).

In a statement on Monday, March 27,  TESDA said that up to March 31, over 150 competitors will compete in 18 different skill areas such as 3D Digital Game Art, Automobile Technology, Beauty Therapy, Cooking, Electrical Installation, Electronics, Fashion Technology, Hairdressing, and Graphic Design Technology.

Other skill areas are Information Network Cabling, IT Network Systems Administration, IT Software Solutions for Business, Mechanical Engineering CAD, Mechatronics, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, Restaurant Services, Web Technology, and Welding.

The opening program started with the - Skills Village Tour and Parade of competitors who came from various parts of the country.

TESDA Director General Danilo P. Cruz noted that skills competitions such as the PNSC serve as a great opportunity to demonstrate and celebrate excellence and promote the competence and global competitiveness of Filipinos.

“This skills competition is only the beginning of your future success. It is my hope that this opportunity will open doors for you in whatever path you choose, be it in employment, business, or further education,” DG Cruz said, addressing the competitors.

Meanwhile, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma graced the opening ceremony and gave his keynote speech as the guest of honor.

“The Competition will also allow the government and academe to see and evaluate the gaps and where TVET standards and curricula need to be improved,” the Labor Secretary said.

Winners in this year’s national skills competition will have a chance to represent the Philippines in the upcoming ASEAN Skills Competition in Singapore. Likewise, all medalists will receive certificates and cash incentives.

It can be recalled that the Philippines has been consistently joining international competitions and has received awards. In 2019, the country participated in the WorldSkills Competition in Russia wherein it received two Medallions for Excellence.

In 2022, it also participated in the WorldSkills Competitions 2022 Special Edition wherein it bagged a Medallion for excellence.

The Medallion for Excellence is granted to competitors whose performance meets the standards set by WorldSkills International.

As stated in the TESDA Act of 1994, the conduct of skills competitions aims to promote quality skills development in the country in view of participating in international skills competitions.