SONA 2026: Marcos cites 81% placement rate for tech-voc graduates, pushes ladderized education

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday touted the government’s efforts to strengthen technical-vocational education and training (TVET), saying graduates now have an 81% job placement rate. In his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA), Marcos said the administration is expanding opportunities for learners through programs that link technical education with employment and higher education. “Napakalaki ng papel ng technical-vocational education sa pagbubukas ng oportunidad sa ating mga kababayan. Sa ngayon, umaabot na sa walumpu’t isang porsyento ang placement rate ng ating mga TVET graduates,” he said. (Technical-vocational education plays a vital role in opening opportunities for our fellow Filipinos. At present, the placement rate of our TVET graduates has reached 81%.) The President said the government has integrated the Tech-Pro program into the Senior High School curriculum to give students more flexible learning pathways. “Sa pamamagitan ng Tech-Pro, na isinasama na sa ating Senior High School curriculum, maaari nang ipagpatuloy ng mga mag-aaral ang kanilang pag-aaral, makapagtrabaho, o gawin ang dalawa.” (Through the Tech-Pro program, which is now being integrated into the Senior High School curriculum, students can continue their studies, enter the workforce, or do both.) Marcos also highlighted the rollout of the TESDA Passport, which he said will allow workers to consolidate their training records and certifications in a single digital platform. He said the initiative aims to make it easier for graduates to access employment opportunities and pursue lifelong learning. —LDF, GMA News