BYU–Pathway Worldwide, TESDA Sign Agreement to Expand Access to Affordable Education for Filipinos

BYU–Pathway Worldwide signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on March 16, 2026, to expand access to flexible, affordable, and career-focused education for Filipinos.

BYU–Pathway Worldwide is a global education organization of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that offers online certificates and degrees in partnership with accredited institutions. Designed to be flexible and affordable, it helps students develop practical, job-ready skills while balancing work, family, and other responsibilities.

Expanding Pathways for Skills Development

The agreement reflects a shared commitment to strengthen pathways for skills development, employment, and entrepreneurship. The collaboration complements the country’s technical and vocational education and training system by providing access to associate degrees and certificate programs in business, information technology, and other in-demand fields.

BYU–Pathway Worldwide President Brian K. Ashton and TESDA Secretary Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez led the signing. Elder Carlos G. Revillo Jr., Philippines Area President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and Congressman Jude Acidre of Tingog Party-List and Co-Chair of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), witnessed the event along with other distinguished guests.

“As we look forward, we are confident that this partnership will open doors for many Filipinos, helping them gain practical skills, pursue meaningful work, and build brighter futures for themselves and their families,” Elder Revillo said.

He mentioned that the MOU formalizes a shared effort to expand access to practical, career-focused learning that enables individuals to acquire job-ready skills, improve economic stability, and create brighter futures.

Supporting Learners Through Global Education Centers

Elder Revillo also highlighted the growing impact of BYU–Pathway’s Global Education Centers in the Philippines, noting that the Cebu center already supports students by providing reliable internet, mentoring, academic guidance, and a supportive environment for online learning.

The BYU–Pathway Worldwide Global Education Center in Cebu City officially opened on February 8, 2025, as the first of its kind in the Philippines, serving as a hub for students enrolled in the program.

Located within the Cebu Philippines Temple Complex, the center offers hands-on training, career-preparation resources, interview-practice rooms, collaborative study spaces, high-speed internet, and nearly 100 computers to help students succeed in online education.

Elder Revillo added that these efforts are rooted in the desire to follow the teachings and example of Jesus Christ by loving and serving others, blessing lives, strengthening families, and helping individuals reach their God-given potential.

Strengthening Opportunities for Filipino Learners

In a post on TESDA’s official Facebook page, the agency said the agreement is expected to expand access to learning and skills training for Filipinos.

“This partnership is designed to give learners new opportunities to develop their skills through online education, access to learning facilities, and other valuable resources that can help them grow professionally and personally,” the post said.

In 2025, BYU–Pathway Worldwide served nearly 90,000 students in more than 180 countries, including about 3,800 students from the Philippines.