Study Room, Malacañan Palace
August 30, 2024

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. administered the oath of office to former Negros Occidental Representative Jose Francisco ‘Kiko’ Bantug Benitez as the new Director General of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in a ceremony at the Study Room in Malacañan Palace.

In his brief remarks, President Marcos Jr. expressed confidence in the incoming TESDA Director General, directing him to strengthen cooperation with the private sector to identify the skills needed to unlock employment opportunities for many Filipinos.

With a doctorate in Philosophy, Director General Benitez is known for promoting social equity, economic growth and sustainability. His focus on digital transformation and education reform is seen as key to aligning TESDA’s programs with the evolving job market, complementing TESDA’s role in nation-building by providing quality education and training, especially to disadvantaged sectors.

Prior to his appointment, incoming TESDA Director General Benitez served as Chairperson of the Committee on Housing and Urban Development in the House of Representatives, bringing with him a wealth of experience in education, development and public service.

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