TESDA cracks down on fly-by-night technical schools

MANILA, Philippines - The Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has began a crackdown on fly-by-night technical schools across the country that produce unskilled workers, a top official said yesterday.

Teodoro Pascua, TESDA deputy secretary general, told reporters during a news forum in Quezon City that at least 10 schools were shut down in various parts of the country.

He said they had sought the help of local governments to prevent the proliferation of unscrupulous technical schools.

“TESDA has no police power to close down schools and training center so we have to ask the help of local city and municipal councils” Pascua said.

The crackdown was initially launched in Valenzuela City, which passed an ordinance requiring technical schools to seek TESDA permit before operating.

Those operating without the proper permit were closed down.

TESDA is the main agency mandated by law to integrate, coordinate and monitor skills development programs. It is also tasked to develop an accreditation system for institutions involved in middle-level manpower development.