The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is eyeing more scholarships for 2026 as the national government allocates a record-high budget for education next year.

TESDA Director General Jose Francisco Benitez said the increased allocation will allow TESDA to continue to expand access to quality and industry-relevant training programs.

“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,” Benitez said in an interview on the sidelines of the Terra Madre Asia and Pacific at the Provincial Capitol Lagoon here Wednesday.

In the Senate version of the proposed 2026 national budget, Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian, chairperson of the committee on finance, said 4.5 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has been allocated for education.

“It’s the first time we have exceeded 4 percent, which was the original target. Now, it’s at 4.5 percent. It’s the first time the education budget has reached that percent of the GDP. It’s in accordance also with international benchmarks for amount spent on education,” Benitez said.

The Senate has proposed a budget of PHP1.38 trillion for the education sector, of which TESDA has been allocated PHP25.3 billion; Department of Education, PHP992.7 billion; Commission on Higher Education, PHP48.2 billion; and state universities and colleges, PHP140.3 billion.

“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,” Benitez said.

In a separate statement on Thursday, Benitez invited the public to visit the 11 booths at the Terra Madre Asia and Pacific, a global gathering of food communities, initiated by the slow food movement.

“The booths feature delicious food prepared by trainees, refreshing drinks, and locally made products from TESDA schools,” he said.

“Discover how TESDA continues to uplift local livelihoods and champion a more sustainable food future.” (PNA)