Bacolod eyes first LGU-run TESDA training center

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – The city government is poised to host the first local government unit-managed Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) training center in Western Visayas, marking a significant step toward addressing workforce skill gaps and local labor market demands.

City officials led by Mayor Greg Gasataya and representatives from TESDA met last week to collaborate on the initiative, which will align with the city’s economic development plan.

According to the city government, the proposed center will focus on high-demand sectors such as digital technology, renewable energy, healthcare, and agri-industrial services.

The project is expected to move forward following the creation and institutionalization of a Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council in Bacolod.

The proposed council will play a key role in guiding the training center’s development and ensuring its alignment with local and regional needs.

Highlights of the proposed TVET framework include the following:

• City TVET Council– a planning and advisory body that will help determine training priorities, course offerings, and schedules.
• Dedicated budget– a portion of Bacolod’s annual budget will be allocated to support TVET initiatives.
• Shared governance– TESDA will provide accreditation and technical guidance, while the LGU will oversee operations and facility management.

This initiative supports the National Technical Education and Skills Development Plan (NTESDP) 2023–2028, which promotes industry-relevant, lifelong learning programs to build a globally competitive workforce.

The center is envisioned to benefit not only Bacolod residents but also neighboring communities, with training programs tailored to local employment needs as identified by the Public Employment Service Office and the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office.