President Marcos has named Negros Occidental Third District Representative Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez as the new director-general of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) following the resignation of Suharto Mangudadatu.

According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), Benitez, who chairs the House Committee on Housing and Urban Development, brings a wealth of experience in education, development, and public service.

"His extensive academic background and commitment to sustainable development make him a well-suited head of TESDA," it said on Friday, Aug. 16.

The PCO said the Marcos administration is confident in Benitez’s ability to lead TESDA toward achieving its goals of enhancing the technical skills of the Filipino workforce, promoting lifelong learning opportunities, and driving economic growth through education and skills development.

Benitez, who has a doctorate in Philosophy, is known for championing legislation that promotes new development paradigms balancing social equity, economic growth, and ecological sustainability.

"His advocacy for digital transformation, education reform, and technological innovation will be crucial in steering TESDA’s programs to meet the demands of the evolving job market and the Fourth Industrial Revolution," the PCO said.

"He will continue the administration’s commitment to upholding the vision of TESDA as a key player in nation-building by providing high-quality education and training to Filipino workers, particularly those in the most disadvantaged sectors of society," it added.

Benitez is expected to assume his new role immediately and will outline his strategic priorities for TESDA in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, the Office of the President thanked outgoing Director-General Suharto Mangudadatu for his dedicated service and contributions to TESDA during his tenure. Mangudadatu stepped down on July 31 to prepare for his candidacy in the 2025 Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) elections.