President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. administered the oath of office to newly-appointed Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Director General Jose Francisco Benitez, in a ceremony at Malacañan Palace Aug. 30.
Several photos of Benitez’s oath-taking were posted on Marcos’ official Facebook page.
Marcos expressed confidence that Benitez, as the new TESDA head, will make sure that the Filipino workforce continues to receive the technical skills and training they need.
“I am confident that Kiko Benitez, with his strong background in education and public service, is the right person to lead the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority,” Marcos posted on Facebook.
“We will make sure Filipinos are prepared for the jobs of tomorrow, helping to build a stronger and more prosperous Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines),” he added.
Benitez served as Negros Occidental 3rd District representative prior to his new post.
He replaced Suharto Mangudadatu, who resigned to prepare for the 2025 local elections.
As a lawmaker, Benitez chaired the Committee on Housing and Urban Development in the House of Representatives.
Benitez, who has a doctorate in Philosophy, is known for championing legislation that promotes new development paradigms balancing social equity, economic growth, and ecological sustainability. | PNA
