Cotabato City – The Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education – Technical Education and Skills Development (MBHTE-TESD) launched the World Skills Bangsamoro Region competition on February 2, 2026, at Cotabato State University (CotSU). The week-long event showcases the talents of young technical-vocational learners from across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Skills Development and Regional Competition
The competition, which runs until February 6, aims to empower youth through skills development and identify regional champions who will then compete at the national level. Participants are demonstrating their expertise in a range of fields, including ICT network infrastructure, IT system administration, electrical installation, carpentry, and cooking.
MBHTE-TESD Director General Ruby Andong affirmed the BARMM government’s commitment to supporting technical-vocational education and training (TVET) learners. “The BARMM government is fully committed to support our TVET learners. We will continue to provide skills training within our capacity to empower Bangsamoro youth,” Andong stated.
Regional champions will receive intensive training in preparation for the national competition, with the goal of securing a gold medal for the BARMM. The competition features 20 participants representing Maguindanao del Norte and del Sur, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, and Cotabato City.
Real-World Impact
For some participants, the skills acquired are already yielding tangible benefits. Bai Shahara Lumanggal, a 21-year-old participant from Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte, specializing in IT network cabling, shared that her training has “not only enhanced my abilities, but it also given me opportunities to earn additional income.”
The winners of the regional competition will advance to compete against top delegates from across the Philippines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the World Skills Bangsamoro Region competition?
The competition aims to empower youth through skills development and select regional champions to compete at the national level.
What skills are being showcased at the competition?
Participants are showcasing their expertise in ICT network infrastructure, IT system administration, electrical installation, carpentry, and cooking.
Who is eligible to participate in the competition?
The competition features 20 participants from Maguindanao del Norte and del Sur, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, and Cotabato City.
As the regional competition concludes, what impact will this event have on the future career paths of the participating youth?
