Manila: The Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) on Monday welcomed the signing of a joint memorandum circular (JMC) between the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), calling it a first step toward building a ‘working’ education system that responds to industry needs.
According to Philippines News Agency, EDCOM 2 Executive Director Karol Mark Yee stated that the joint agreement reflects the Commission’s recommendations to harmonize higher education and technical-vocational training in order to address persistent skills mismatches. Yee emphasized that the agreements are a significant milestone in creating an integrated and future-ready Philippine education system.
The JMC establishes a Board for Curriculum Standards and Discipline and Sector Skills Councils for six priority industry clusters. These clusters include advanced manufacturing, digital technology, healthcare, financial services, tourism, and the creative economy. EDCOM 2 had earlier identified these sectors as having high growth potential but facing significant workforce supply gaps.
Yee described the agreement as a policy breakthrough, attributing its success to the leadership of TESDA Director General Francisco Benitez and CHED chairperson Shirley Agrupis. The collaboration is seen as foundational for the education sector in addressing the supply gaps and fulfilling industry needs.