TESDA Anticipates Expanded Scholarships Amid Record Education Budget for 2026

BACOLod CITY – The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is preparing to offer more scholarships in 2026, supported by a landmark increase in the national government's education budget for the upcoming year.

TESDA Director General Jose Francisco Benitez highlighted that the enhanced funding will enable the agency to broaden access to quality training programs aligned with industry needs. Speaking during the Terra Madre Asia and Pacific event at the Provincial Capitol Lagoon, Benitez remarked, "The effect is, the TESDA budget will also increase, particularly for scholarships. I hope there will be more scholarships next year. It's still a proposal. If it happens, it will also give TESDA quite a large increase."

The Senate's version of the 2026 national budget allocates 4.5 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to education, marking the first time this figure has exceeded the 4 percent target. Senate Finance Committee Chair Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian announced this significant milestone as part of the PHP1.38 trillion budget for the education sector.

The proposed allocations include PHP25.3 billion for TESDA, PHP992.7 billion for the Department of Education, PHP48.2 billion for the Commission on Higher Education, and PHP140.3 billion for state universities and colleges.

Benitez emphasized the importance of sustained investment in education, stating, "Every peso we invest in education is an investment in our people's future. The additional budget for TESDA, combined with this record-high education budget, allows us to reach more Filipinos and help them gain practical skills, find decent work, and build better lives. Through TESDA, we'll make sure that this investment truly changes lives on the ground."

In a separate announcement on Thursday, Benitez invited the public to explore the 11 exhibits featured at the Terra Madre Asia and Pacific gathering, a global event spearheaded by the slow food movement. The displays showcase food prepared by TESDA trainees, refreshing beverages, and locally produced items crafted at TESDA schools.

"Discover how TESDA continues to uplift local livelihoods and champion a more sustainable food future," he added.