TESDA Zamboanga Peninsula - PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

TESDA IX Zamboanga Peninsula

PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

TVET Program Management

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Regional Office IX – Zamboanga Peninsula is the government agency mandated to plan, implement, coordinate, and monitor Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs across the provinces of Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga Sibugay, and the Cities of Zamboanga and Isabela (located in Basilan but administratively under Region IX) .

As the regional arm of TESDA Central Office, TESDA IX delivers responsive and inclusive skills development services that support local industries, empower communities, and enhance employment opportunities. The office identifies regional skills priorities based on labor market demand and ensures alignment with national development policies such as the Philippine Development Plan and the National Technical Education and Skills Development Plan (NTESDP).

TESDA IX is responsible for the registration, supervision, monitoring, and evaluation of technical training programs in the region. It provides scholarship support, competency assessment, and national certification services to learners and workers, ensuring the relevance and quality of training delivery. The office also supervises Provincial Offices, Public and Private Technical Vocational Institutions (TVI) and Assessment Centers, ensuring compliance with national standards and effective operation under an ISO 9001:2015-certified Quality Management System.

With a strong commitment to accessibility, quality, and innovation, TESDA IX actively engages industry partners, local government units (LGUs), and other stakeholders to ensure TVET programs are demand-driven and future-ready. Special attention is given to priority sectors such as Indigenous Peoples (IPs), Out-of-School Youth (OSY), women, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), and returning OFWs.

As the lead agency for technical education in the region, TESDA IX plays a vital role in developing a skilled, globally competitive, and productive workforce that contributes to the inclusive growth and sustainable development of the Zamboanga Peninsula and surrounding areas.

CORE TECHNICAL-VACATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING (TVET) PROGRAMS

Program Registration (UTPRAS)

Through the Unified TVET Program Registration and Accreditation System (UTPRAS), TESDA IX evaluates and approves training programs offered by public and private Technical Vocational Institutions (TVIs) to ensure they meet minimum requirements. These requirements include having a competency-based curriculum, qualified trainers, appropriate training facilities, and sufficient equipment. Only UTPRAS-registered programs are authorized to operate and issue training certificates recognized by TESDA.

Enterprise-Based Training Programs

The regional office facilities enterprise-based training modalities such as the Dual Training System (DTS), Apprenticeship, and Learnership, which allow trainees to gain practical, on-the-job experience while learning theoretical knowledge in schools or training centers. TESDA IX accredits partner companies and ensures that workplace training is structured, supervised, and competency-based. These programs help bridge the gap between school and employment, making learners more job-ready.

TESDA Online Program

The TESDA Online Program (TOP) is an e-learning platform that offers free technical training and skills development courses to Filipinos anytime and anywhere. TESDA IX promotes this platform across the region, especially in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. The office conducts orientations, provides technical support, and encourages blended learning models to maximize reach and flexibility in skills development.

Assessment & Certification

TESDA IX overseas the implementation of competency assessment for individuals who want to validate their skills based on national competency standards. Assessment are conducted through accredited assessment centers and administered by certified assessors. Those who meet the required level of competence are issued a National Certificate (NC) or Certificate of Competency (COC). These certifications enhance employability locally and internationally and ensure that Filipino workforce meets global standards.

Compliance Audit

TESDA IX conducts regular compliance audit of both registered TVET programs and accredited competency assessment centers to ensure continued adherence to TESDA standards. For training programs, audits examine curriculum implementation, trainer qualification, learning resources, training plans, and student records. For assessment centers, the audit ensures compliance with assessment procedures, availability of tools and equipment, and the qualifications of assessors. The audit helps maintain the integrity if TVET delivery and the credibility of national certification.

Scholarship Program Management

TESDA IX administers several scholarship programs including the Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP), Special Training for Employment Program (STEP), Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA), and the Tulong Trrabaho Scholarship Program (TTSP), The office handles the allocation of scholarship slots to schools and centers, screening of beneficiaries, disbursement of funds, and monitoring of implementaion. These programs aim to provide access to free training and support for priority groups such as low-income individuals, youth, and displaced workers.

Inclusive and Special Training Programs

The TESDA IX prioritizes the inclusion of disadvantaged groups in all training initiatives. Special programs are developed for Indigenous Peoples (IPs), Out-of-School Youths (OSYs), Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), women, solo parents, and returning OFWs. The office also implements community-based and humanitarian training interventions.

INSTITUTIONAL AND REGULATORY SUPPORT SERVICES

Monitoring and Evaluation

TESDA IX regularly monitors the performance of TVIs, TTIs, scholarship projects, and assessment centers to ensure compliance with training standards and program objectives. Monitoring activities include site inspections, interviews with trainees, reviews of training documentation, and submission of accomplishment reports. Evaluation results are used to improve training delivery, Infor policy, and measure the effectiveness and impact of programs.

Industry Partnership & Advocacy

The regional office forges partnerships with industries, business groups, and employer organizations to ensure that TVET programs remain relevant to labor market demands. TESDA IX facilitates industry consultations, supports the establishment of enterprise-based training and promotes job placements for graduates. Advocacy campaigns are also conducted to raise public awareness of TVET opportunities and benefits.

Planning & Research

We conduct data-driven research and planning to guide skills development initiatives in the region. This includes labor market intelligence (LMI), training needs assessment (TNA), graduate tracer studies, and evaluation of economic trends. The office uses research findings to draft regional and provincial TVET plans, recommend priority qualifications, and align training delivery with industry demand.

Support to TESDA Technology Institutions (TTIs)

TESDA IX provides technical, financial, and administrative support to TESDA-administered schools knows as TESDA Technology Institutions (TTIs), which include Regional and Provincial Training Centers, as well as TESDA-Administered Schools such as the Dipolog School of Fisheries and the Zamboanga Sibugay Polytechnic Institute (ZSPI). The office ensures that TTIs are well-equipped, adequately staffed, and compliant with TESDA standards. It also monitors their performance and assists them in improving training quality and expanding program offerings.

ICT & Systems Support

Client Services and Frontline Support

TESDA IX delivers direct public services including the issuance of certificates, authentication of documents, and response to inquiries from clients, students, and institutions. The office handles walk-in and online requests and coordinates the implementation of Mobile Training Programs (MTPs), in remote communities expanding access to skills training for underserved populations.