TESDA, Nestlé Philippines boost partnership to upskill coffee farmers

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Nestlé Philippines, through the NESCAFÉ Plan, have reaffirmed their commitment to uplifting Filipino smallholder farmers through a strengthened partnership focused on skills development and sustainable livelihoods.

TESDA Secretary Kiko Benitez recently met with representatives from Nestlé Philippines to expand their collaboration, with a shared goal of empowering coffee farmers through targeted training and upskilling programs. The initiative aims to boost productivity, improve the quality of locally grown coffee, and create more sustainable economic opportunities in rural communities. Key areas of support include modern training and access to technology, improved logistics and distribution systems, support for fertilizer and post-harvest processing, and stronger partnerships among government, industry, and local communities.

“Coffee starts with strong support from the farm all the way to your cup,” Secretary Benitez said. “Skills are the currency of the workplace, and we see that certified skills are front and center at every step of producing coffee. Proud kami sa TESDA na maging ka-partner ng Nestlé para magturo ng skills at gawing mas makabuluhan ang bawat tasa para sa farmers at consumers.”

Nestlé Philippines Senior Vice President and Head of Corporate Affairs Joey Uy III emphasized the company’s commitment to working hand in hand with government in advancing the welfare of coffee farmers. “Our partnership with TESDA allows us to contribute not only to the improvement of coffee farming practices but also to the long-term resilience of farming communities,” Uy said. “By combining technical training with on-the-ground support, we can help create a more sustainable value chain—from farm to cup.”

Through this strengthened partnership, TESDA and Nestlé aim to build a more resilient coffee industry—one that begins with empowered farmers and ends with a more meaningful cup for every Filipino.

Beyond coffee, both parties are also exploring other areas for collaboration, including entrepreneurship training for sari-sari store owners, green TVET initiatives, e-learning through e-TESDA, and community-based training programs with local government units.