The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) recognized its outstanding partners in technical vocational education and training (TVET) during the 2025 Kabalikat Awards, honoring organizations, local government units (LGUs), legislators, and development partners whose support has helped strengthen the country’s TVET sector.
The Kabalikat Awards highlight entities that have gone beyond collaboration, playing a significant role in strengthening workforce development and skills training nationwide. This year’s awardees represent a diverse range of sectors, reflecting TESDA’s holistic approach to technical education and inclusive workforce development.
Among the industry partners honored were the Piazza Zicarelli Hotel and Restaurant in Region II; Nueva Ecija Convention and Visitors Association in Region III; Malampaya Foundation, Inc. in Region IV-A; Therma South Inc. – Aboitiz Power in Region XI; Agata Mining Ventures, Inc. in CARAGA; Daikin Airconditioning Philippines, Inc. in NCR; and, Samsung Electronics Philippines Corporation through the TESDA Women’s Center.
Several LGUs were recognized for their critical role in advancing TESDA’s mission including: the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte; Municipal Government of Sanchez Mira in Cagayan; City Government of Calamba in Laguna; Provincial Government of Albay; City Government of Tagbilaran in Bohol; Municipal Government of Dumingag in Zamboanga del Sur; City Government of Iligan in Lanao del Norte; Municipal Government of President Roxas in Cotabato; City Government of Mandaluyong in NCR; and Provincial Government of Agusan Del Norte.
Legislative partners honored were: the Office of the Lone District of Romblon in MIMAROPA: 2nd Congressional District of Iloilo in Region VI; Tingog Partylist in Region VIII; 1st Congressional Office of Davao de Oro in Region XI; and, the Office of the Lone District of Mountain Province in CAR.
Development partners recognized include the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority in Region III.
Meanwhile, Special Kabalikat Awardees included: the Philippine Constructors Association, Inc.; Migrant Workers Office in Riyadh; and, Representatives Jude Acidre of Tingog Partylist, Rommel Rico Angara of Aurora Lone District, and Angela “Gila” Garcia of the 3rd District of Bataan.
In his message, during the awarding ceremony held in Pasay City, TESDA Secretary Kiko Benitez extended his gratitude to the recognized partners for their efforts in strengthening the country’s technical vocational education and training (TVET), and encouraged them to continue offering services and opportunities to the Filipino people.
“Taon-taon, napapatunayan natin na it takes collaboration to really make the change that we want to see. So, today is a chance for us to once again show that when we work together — that is, the government, the industry, and academe — we shape a better future for every Filipino,” Sec. Kiko said.
“Kayong mga Kabalikat Awardees, you help provide necessary tools and infrastructure, and you facilitate employment and enrichment of our TVET graduates. Kaya hindi maitatanggi na malaki ang contribution ninyo sa socio-economic development ng bansa,” added the Secretary.
Each Kabalikat awardee received a plaque of recognition from TESDA.
The TESDA Kabalikat Award aligns with several key directives of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. including boosting private sector participation; ensuring globally competitive skills development, strengthening legal frameworks, and, linking education, innovation, and employment. (PIA)
TOP 📸: Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Acting Deputy Administrator for Legal Atty. Melvin L. Varias (center) received the National Kabalikat Award under the Development Partner Category by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) at the Philippine Trade & Training Center, Pasay City. The award is a testament of the SBMA’s exemplary contribution to the advancement of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in the country. (SBMA – Labor Center)
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