CLARK FREEPORT — The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) has underscored the importance of skills development in strengthening workforce readiness and sustaining investor confidence as the WorldSkills Philippines Clark 2026 opened at the SMX Convention Center Ballroom.
CDC President and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera said technical-vocational training complements education by ensuring that graduates possess the practical skills needed by industry.
“Investing in human capital shows sincerity in governance. Skills are the real currency of opportunity,” Devanadera said.
She noted that Clark hosts more than 1,200 locators and 151,000 workers, making workforce development essential to the Freeport’s continued growth.
Devanadera said the programs of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) help align industry requirements with workforce capabilities.
“We must have the right skilled workers, the right skilled employees. That is the importance of what TESDA is doing, and the importance of this competition,” she added.
The opening ceremony highlighted the role of practical skills alongside academic credentials in preparing workers for employment and supporting business operations in Clark and beyond.
It also underscored the Philippines’ competitiveness as an investment destination, with the availability of disciplined and English-proficient workers, while pointing to the forthcoming TESDA Innovation Center in Clark as a potential source of accessible training and opportunities for local residents.
TESDA Secretary and Director General Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez said the competition adopts the branding, format and standards of WorldSkills International, providing Filipino competitors with a clearer pathway from local competitions to the ASEAN, Asian and global stages.
“When we compete, we push the envelope further than we have ever done before. We blur the line between the possible and the impossible,” Benitez said.
He described WorldSkills as a showcase of the country’s first-class technical-vocational talent and “the skills and the hands that build the nation.”
The ceremony featured the parade of regions, oathtaking of competitors and experts, and cultural performances.
WorldSkills Philippines Clark 2026 brings together 298 top regional qualifiers from 18 regions competing in 30 skill areas across six major sectors: Information and Communication Technology; Manufacturing and Engineering Technology; Construction and Building Technology; Social and Personal Services; Creative Arts and Fashion; and Transportation and Logistics.
Formerly known as the Philippine National Skills Competition, the event now follows the standards and framework of WorldSkills International to prepare Filipino talent for regional and global competitions.
Devanadera closed by saluting TESDA leaders, employees and competitors, emphasizing that skills development is central to human capital growth and national progress.
“You have shown the Philippines how it is to value human development and human capital. I give my salute to TESDA, the TESDA family, and our competitors. Good luck to everyone,” she said.