The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) on Friday to strengthen convergence efforts for Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) households who have exited and are transitioning from the conditional cash transfer program.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian and TESDA Director General Jose Francisco Benitez led the ceremonial signing at the TESDA central office in Taguig City, marking a milestone in inter-agency collaboration for sustainable poverty reduction by capacitating poor families with livelihood and employment skills.

Under the agreement, TESDA will offer scholarship slots, skills training and certification to qualified 4Ps beneficiaries, while the DSWD will assist in identifying and referring eligible participants.

The DSWD-TESDA partnership serves as a reaffirmation of the commitment of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s administration to empowering Filipino families through inclusive, skills-based development, underscoring the importance of government convergence in achieving long-term poverty alleviation.

“This partnership is living proof that we are not just committed to stitching off the culture of mendicancy in our programs, but also to building a culture that empowers our beneficiaries to unlock their fullest potential,” Gatchalian said in his message.

He pointed out that by 2026, around 1.8 million households are projected to exit the 4Ps program.

Among them are over 1 million Senior High School graduates expected to either seek employment or pursue further trainings.

“Through this MOA, our 4Ps beneficiaries — especially our senior high school graduates — will have better access to skills training and certification programs, which are valuable tools that can open more doors to employment, stable income, and a life of dignity,” Gatchalian said.

Benitez emphasized the significance of the agreement to prioritize the empowerment of individuals through education.

“Education is what realizes and extends human potential. It can transform individuals into empowered citizens, and transform empowered citizens with an empowered community and nation. This MOA between TESDA and DSWD is all about giving people a solid chance to steer the course of their own lives with poise and dignity,” Benitez said. (PNA)