TESDA Online Programs: Free Software Development Training

Acquiring new skills is crucial for career advancement and personal growth in today's fast-evolving job market. In response to this need, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, more commonly known as TESDA, has made learning more accessible through its TESDA Online Programs. By leveraging this initiative, Filipinos can gain industry-relevant expertise from the comfort of their homes. Whether you're looking to upskill, switch careers, or enhance your qualifications, TESDA's virtual training provides a flexible and cost-free solution.

To address the increasing demand for tech talent, Armada Logics has partnered with TESDA to offer online coding training programs that help Filipinos build strong technical foundations. One such program is the Programming (Java) NC III course, designed to equip learners with essential programming skills. For those interested, enrollment is easy—simply visit tesda.armadalogics.com and register today to take the first step toward a future in tech.

But before diving into the details of these programs, what exactly is TESDA, how does its online learning system work, and what makes it a valuable tool for skill development? Let’s explore how this initiative empowers individuals across various industries.

What is TESDA?

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is a government agency in the Philippines dedicated to technical vocational education and training (TVET). With a clear mission in mind, it equips Filipino citizens with job-ready skills and certification through accessible, high-quality training programs that align with local and international industry needs, help individuals secure jobs, and support their growth.

A Brief History of TESDA

TESDA was established on August 25, 1994, through Republic Act No. 7796 to address the growing demand for skilled workers across various industries. Prior to its formation, there was no centralized agency for technical education, leading to gaps and inefficiencies in the skills development of the Filipino workforce.

TESDA was formed by merging several government bodies, including:

• National Manpower and Youth Council (NMYC) – under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)
• Bureau of Technical and Vocational Education (BTVE) – under the Department of Education, Culture, and Sports (DECS)
• Apprenticeship Program of the Bureau of Local Employment – under DOLE

By combining these functions, TESDA created a more coordinated and effective skills training system to support national workforce development.

TESDA's Early Focus for Skill Development

In its early years, TESDA established a national network of training centers to provide hands-on vocational education. Initially, these centers focused on industries vital to the economy, such as construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture. They offered short courses and technical-vocational certifications in fields like welding, carpentry, construction, automotive repair, electrical installation, healthcare, agriculture, and service management. These programs were designed to equip learners with the knowledge and practical experience necessary to excel in their chosen careers.

As demand for skilled workers grew, TESDA partnered with LGUs and private companies to align programs with industry standards. This collaboration not only made TESDA's training programs more relevant but also helped graduates become job-ready to meet employers' needs.

Enhancing Education with TESDA Online Courses

Over time, TESDA expanded its training offerings to include more specialized courses. As a key initiative, in 2011, TESDA allocated ₱20 million to support training programs focusing on high-demand industries like BPO and IT.

Specifically, this initiative worked in collaboration with the Business Process Outsourcing Association of the Philippines (BPAP). The goal was clear: to train 2,200 students in BPO skills. Building on this success, TESDA now offers online courses that provide certifications in healthcare, including Caregiving NC II and Health Care Services NC II.

Recognizing the growing influence of digital industries, TESDA expanded into emerging sectors, with online programs marking a turning point in Philippine workforce development. Through these offerings, learners can now access the courses and receive training in IT support, medical transcription, and caregiving, preparing them for local and international job opportunities. As a result, many workers have earned certifications that helped them secure higher-paying, more stable jobs.

The Launch of the TESDA Online Program

A significant milestone in TESDA's history was the launch of the TESDA Online Platform in 2012. Recognizing that many Filipinos, especially in rural areas, face challenges accessing traditional training centers, TESDA developed this web-based platform that offers free courses to make technical education more accessible to all.

The TESDA Online Program provides free, self-paced training across various fields, enabling individuals to develop valuable skills from the comfort of their homes. Designed with accessibility in mind, the platform supports learners with limited internet access or formal education. Among its wide range of courses, it offers training in computer programming, caregiving, digital marketing, business management, and more.

This innovation has opened doors for many, particularly individuals in remote areas. By offering flexibility, the program is especially beneficial for working professionals and those with family responsibilities, allowing them to finish the courses at their own pace without committing to a full-time, in-person program.

By providing free and inclusive training, TESDA has made technical education more accessible and affordable for all Filipinos. As the program continues to expand, helping learners balance work, family, and education while gaining industry-relevant expertise.

Exploring TESDA Online Programs

Expanding on its commitment to accessibility, TESDA has significantly broadened its offerings through the TESDA Online Program (TOP). With a diverse range of courses, learners can now develop valuable skills across multiple industries. TESDA specifically designs these programs to align with sector needs, helping students succeed in today's competitive job market.

As of December 2023, the TESDA Online Program offers 167 free courses across various fields. Here's a list of available courses:

• 21st Century Skills
• Agriculture
• Automotive and Land Transport
• Construction
• Electrical and Electronics
• Entrepreneurship
• Gender and Development (GAD)
• Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Technology
• Human Health/Health Care
• Information and Communication Technology
• Lifelong Learning Skills
• Maritime
• Process Food and Beverages
• Social, Community Development, and Others
• Technical and Vocational Education and Training
• Tourism

Boosting Employment and Career Growth Through TESDA Online Programs

TESDA’s impact on employment and skills development is evident in its latest findings. According to the 2022 Study on Employment of TVET Graduates (SETG), eight out of 10 technical vocational education and training graduates found employment, reflecting an impressive 84.72% employment rate. This annual study evaluates the effectiveness of TESDA’s programs in preparing Filipinos for the workforce.

Key Initiatives Driving This Success

• In-Demand Skills: Industry practitioners develop TESDA programs to ensure graduates possess competencies aligned with current market requirements.
• Scholarship Opportunities: The Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) focuses on key areas. These areas include ICT-BPO, electronics, tourism, health, agriculture, and construction.
• Job Placement Support: Graduates can meet potential employers at Jobs Bridging Events. They can also explore self-employment through the TESDA Specialista Technopreneurship Program.

The Continued Evolution of TESDA and TESDA Online Programs

As technology and industry change, TESDA dedicates itself to updating its training, both traditional and online programs. This will help meet the challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0).

The rise of automation, artificial intelligence (AI), data science, and other cutting-edge technologies presents challenges and opportunities for the Philippine workforce. In response, TESDA has introduced courses focused on digital skills, programming, cyber security, and data analysis. They also provide courses that help graduates gain the skills needed for future jobs.

TESDA demonstrates its dedication to staying ahead of industry trends through strong collaboration with various industries. At the 4th International Conference on Automation, Mechatronics, and Robotics (ICAMEROB 2022), TESDA stressed the need to cooperate with education and industries. This partnership will help create graduates with skills that fit the industry.

TESDA ensures its training programs align with real-world industry needs by working closely with the private sector. This partnership enables the agency to develop relevant and effective training programs, including online software development programs. These programs address the skills gap in the workforce and enhance the skills of graduates. Additionally, TESDA's initiatives to upskill the existing workforce help businesses boost productivity and efficiency, making the workforce adaptable to the changing technological landscape.

Support from Armada Logics

Recognizing the importance of tech education, Armada Logics aims to improve access to quality education by supporting TESDA’s online programs, including Programming (JAVA) NC III. Through this collaboration, resources, expertise, and training opportunities are provided to help learners develop essential skills for success in the tech industry.

To start, the partnership kicks off in Region 1, Philippines, with plans to expand to Regions 2, 3, and the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). In addition to the existing courses offered, Armada Logics will introduce specialized training in emerging fields, covering areas such as:

These upcoming offerings will equip learners with industry-ready skills in high-demand fields. Through this partnership, Armada Logics is helping more individuals complete TESDA’s online programs and gain valuable expertise to thrive in the digital economy.

TESDA and Armada Logics: Partnering to Build a Skilled Workforce

TESDA’s online program has transformed skills training in the Philippines, making quality education more accessible to Filipino citizens nationwide.

By eliminating the barriers of traditional classroom learning, TESDA provides an effective and efficient way for individuals—whether in cities or remote areas— to upskill or reskill at their own pace, opening doors to new career opportunities.

As part of its continued evolution, TESDA has partnered with Armada Logics, a tech company known for its real-world projects and industry expertise. Armada Logics offers a curriculum aligned with US software development standards.

Through this initiative, more Filipinos can build stable careers in high-demand industries, further strengthening the country’s workforce.

Armada Logics' Journey and Vision

Armada Logics was founded by experienced developers who played a key role in the success of Coding Dojo, one of the longest-running coding bootcamps in the U.S. 

In 2011, IT graduates John Supsupin, Mark Abi Guillen, Jandreu "Jadee" Ganggangan, and Christopher Padua trained under Michael Choi, founder of Village 88, a startup incubator focused on software development.

John, Mark, Jadee, and Chris underwent intensive training and gained real-world experience under Michael's mentorship. Before coding bootcamps became mainstream, they mastered building enterprise-level web applications using the latest MVC frameworks, Systems Design, Database Design, and Cloud Server and Infrastructure setup and management. They went the extra mile by spending 12 to 16 hours daily to speed up their learning and meet U.S. standards. 

Village 88's offshore engineering team in the Philippines started with just four engineers and grew into a powerhouse of over 50. As a team, they played a pivotal role in building Coding Dojo’s technological foundation, developing key systems such as the Learning Management System (LMS), Customer Relationship Management (CRM), and other critical software infrastructure. Their collective expertise also shaped Coding Dojo’s original coding curriculum, helping to train thousands of developers worldwide.

As Coding Dojo continued to grow, Village 88 launched its free online coding training in 2020. This initiative provided thousands of Filipino CS/IT students, graduates, and career shifters with a world-class curriculum.

Recognizing Coding Dojo's success in the tech education industry, Perdoceo Education Corporation, a publicly traded company, acquired Coding Dojo in 2022. Village 88 engineers continued supporting Coding Dojo even after its acquisition. Following Coding Dojo's acquisition, John and the Village 88 engineers founded Armada Logics, a software company for U.S. businesses. Armada Logics founders remained committed to their mission of nurturing talent. Armada Logics expanded the Village 88 Online Training through Armada Logics Online Training, ensuring aspiring developers can still access world-class learning opportunities for free.

A Partnership for a Bigger Impact

TESDA and Armada Logics share the same goal: empowering Filipinos with in-demand skills that unlock better career opportunities. This shared mission combines TESDA's extensive reach with Armada Logics' proven training methods to create a powerful initiative.

Starting in Region I, this initiative will equip participants to face real-world challenges and reach their career goals. These TESDA Online Training will soon be available in Regions II, III, CAR, and others, offering Filipinos valuable training.

Conclusion

TESDA's journey since its founding in 1994 highlights its commitment to building a skilled and competitive Filipino workforce. Through the TESDA Online Program, Filipinos can access technical education and skills training that fit their needs and career goals.

The partnership with Armada Logics supports this mission by offering specialized IT and tech training. Armada Logics Online Training makes this possible. This collaboration expands TESDA's reach and helps prepare learners for high-demand industries. It also opens doors to exciting career opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I enroll in a TESDA Online Program offered by Armada Logics?

To enroll in the Programming (Java) NC III course, visit tesda.armadalogics.com, choose the course you wish to apply for and follow the simple steps to complete your registration. You will receive an email with the details of the training schedule.

Which TESDA course does Armada Logics offer?

Armada Logics offers the Programming (Java) NC III course, designed to teach foundational Java programming skills. To help learners transition smoothly into Java, we also cover essential web development fundamentals, ensuring a strong programming foundation. This course equips students with the necessary knowledge to pursue entry-level roles in software development.

Upcoming classes will include Mobile App Development, Python Programming, Software QA Engineering, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence, providing even more opportunities for skill development.

Do I need to pay for the course?

No. The Programming (Java) NC III course is offered entirely free of charge. We aim to make quality education accessible to everyone, including unemployed individuals, career switchers, and recent or upcoming graduates. Please note that slots are limited and subject to availability. Interested individuals are encouraged to apply early to secure their spot.

Who is eligible to enroll?

The Programming (Java) NC III course is open to:

• Individuals with 10 years of education or an ALS certificate
• Professionals from any industry
• Career shifters
• Recent graduates with no prior work experience
• Graduating students preparing for their on-the-job training (OJT) or internships

We are currently accepting applications from Region I, with plans to expand to Regions II, III, and CAR in the future. Interested applicants may visit tesda.armadalogics.com to apply. For those in other regions, please sign up for the waitlist. The course requires no coding background, making it accessible to individuals eager to learn.

Will I receive a TESDA-certified certificate after completing the course?

Yes. Upon completing the Programming (Java) NC III course, you will receive a TESDA Certificate of Completion. To receive a National Certificate (NC), you must pass an online competency assessment through Oracle. Armada Logics will help prepare you and ensure you're ready for the Oracle certification.

Summary:

Unlock Career Potential in 2025 with TESDA Online Programs

• TESDA was established by the Philippine government in 1994.
• It addresses the need for skilled workers in the Philippines.
• By merging multiple government agencies, TESDA developed a streamlined framework for technical-vocational education and training.
• TESDA offers accessible programs and industry-aligned certifications, enhancing Filipinos' employment in local and global markets.

Key Milestones and Programs

Early Initiatives

• Focused on industries like construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture.
• Offered certifications in welding, carpentry, automotive repair, and service management.

Expansion into Emerging Sectors

• Introduced IT and BPO-focused programs in 2011.
• Expanded healthcare training and emphasized soft skills like communication and teamwork.

TESDA Online Program (2012)

• Made training accessible to Filipinos in remote areas.
• Offered flexible, self-paced courses in programming, caregiving, and digital marketing.

Adapting to Industry 4.0

• TESDA introduced courses in automation, AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics to empower and drive the development of the Filipino workforce in emerging technologies.

TESDA's Global Alignment

• Consistently ensured programs meet international standards, making Filipino workers competitive worldwide.
• Filipino certifications and skills have earned recognition in regions like Japan, the Middle East, and other parts of Asia.

Impact

High Employment Rates 

• Over 84% of graduates secure jobs or livelihood opportunities.

Global Recognition 

• Certifications meet international standards, benefiting workers seeking overseas employment.

Industry Partnerships 

• Collaborations ensure training aligns with market needs, preparing individuals for impactful careers.

Partnership with Armada Logics

Armada Logics, led by Silicon Valley-caliber engineers, partnered with TESDA to achieve a shared goal: equipping Filipinos with top-notch technical skills.

Their partnership brings together TESDA's broad reach and Armada's skills in IT training. This helps prepare participants for in-demand jobs. Starting in Region I, the initiative will expand nationwide, providing training that bridges education and career opportunities.

Conclusion

TESDA focuses on innovation, equality, and forming strategic partnerships. They offer online programs with companies like Armada Logics. These initiatives help Filipinos gain skills for successful careers and improve the country's global job market standing.