TAGUIG CITY – The Philippines, through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) today, December 13, commenced the 2021 Philippine National Skills Competition (PNSC) at TESDA Complex here.
From today up to December 16, over 400 competitors and experts nationwide will gather and compete in different skill areas for this year’s national skills competition.
In his speech, TESDA Secretary Isidro Lapeña noted that skills competitions give technical vocational education and training (TVET) graduates not just a chance to showcase their skills but more importantly, give them the chance to meet world-class standards in skills competition.
“As you go on with the competition this week, I encourage all of you to do your best in your respective skills,” Lapeña said, addressing hundreds of competitors.
The participants will compete in the skills areas such as Electrical Installation, Carpentry, Plumbing and Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, Wall and Floor Tiling, Landscape Gardening, Cabinet making, and Joinery for Construction and Building Technology Sector; Mechanical Engineering CAD, Electronics, Mechatronics, Welding, and Prototype Modelling for Manufacturing and Engineering Technology Sector; and 3D Digital Game Art, Fashion Technology, and Graphics Design Technology for Creative Arts and Fashion Sector.
Other skill areas are Information Network Cabling, IT Network Systems Administration, IT Software Solutions for Business, Cybersecurity, and Web Technologies for Information and Communication Technology; Beauty Therapy, Hairdressing, Cooking, Restaurant Services, Bakery, and Hotel Reception for Social and Personal Services; and Automobile Technologies for Transportation and Logistics Sector.
The opening program started with the NCR Skills Village Tour and Parade of competitors who came from various parts of the country. Further, Lahing Batangan Dance Troupe, the official folk dance company of the Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU)- Batangas performed in the event.
Winners in this year’s national skills competition will represent the Philippines in the 46th WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai, China. The WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai was set in 2021 but got suspended due to the current health crisis.
“I hope to see you showcase your outstanding skills in the WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai next year. It will be an honor and a great privilege for you to represent our beloved country in the international field,” Lapeña said.
Meanwhile, the opening ceremony was also graced by Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss; National Organizing Committee (NOC) for Local Skills Competition Chairperson and Deputy Director General for TESD Operations Lina Sarmiento; and other Regional Directors, Provincial Directors and other officials of TESDA.
During the 45th WorldSkills Competition in Kazan, Russia in 2019, two Filipino delegates were awarded with Medallions for Excellence. Medallion for Excellence is granted to competitors whose performance meet the international standards based on the criteria set by the WorldSkills International.
Section 30 of the Republic Act 7796 (The TESDA Act of 1994) states that TESDA, with the active participation of private industries, shall organize annual skills Olympics to promote quality skills development in the country in view of participating in International Skills Competitions. (TESDA)
