It was a golden week for the Philippines as the nation proudly bagged 10 gold medals at the WorldSkills ASEAN 2025, held from August 25 to 30 in Pasay City. The victory placed the country among the top performers in Southeast Asia, proving once again the world-class talent and dedication of young Filipino professionals.
The medals came from diverse skill areas, including Graphic Design Technology, Internet-of-Things, CNC Maintenance, Cooking, Hotel Reception, Electrical Installations, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, and three demonstration events—Industrial Control, Carpentry, and Plumbing and Heating.
This is the Philippines’ most historic performance yet, marking the first time since 2004 that the country clinched gold at the biennial skills showdown.
Beyond Medals, A Celebration of Excellence
TESDA Secretary Kiko Benitez praised the competitors for their outstanding achievement, highlighting that their success was not only about winning but also about embodying discipline, collaboration, and courage.
“What we witnessed was bigger than medals. We saw not just skills, but discipline. Not just competition, but collaboration. Not just dreams, but the courage to make them real,” Benitez said during the closing ceremony, inspiring the audience and fellow ASEAN competitors.
His message underscored the importance of investing in the youth and workforce, ensuring that Filipino excellence continues to rise on the global stage.
A Regional Festival of Skills
Hosted by TESDA, WorldSkills ASEAN Manila 2025 gathered hundreds of young professionals from 10 ASEAN countries, who competed across 32 skill categories. The event also featured industry exhibits, cultural performances, and interactive “Try-a-Skill” booths that engaged thousands of students, educators, and industry partners.
The Philippines’ medal haul included seven silvers, eight bronzes, and five Medallions for Excellence, further cementing its position as a strong player in technical-vocational education.
While Malaysia topped the overall medal count with 13 golds, and Indonesia followed with nine, the Philippines’ golden win stands as a proud moment for the nation—showcasing the world-class skills, creativity, and determination of the Filipino youth.
