DFA Assists TESDA in Preparing for WorldSkills ASEAN Manila 2025 through Diplomatic Protocol Training

Acting Director Christian Andrei C. Aguilar and Protocol Officer Mr. Fernando G. Abad provide feedback after each group executed their assigned scenarios

MANILA 17 July 2025 — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) conducted a training on basic diplomatic and government protocol for the personnel of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), which was held on 25 to 26 June 2025 at Tandang Sora Hall, TESDA Complex in Taguig City.

The two-day training, hosted by TESDA, was facilitated by two teams from the DFA - Office of Protocol in view of the Philippine hosting of WorldSkills ASEAN Manila 2025 scheduled on 26-28 August 2025. Acting Director for Ceremonials Division Mr. Christian Andrei C. Aguilar with Protocol Officers Ms. Trisha Erin L. Estaris and Mr. Fernando G. Abad led the training for the first batch of participants, while Acting Director for Socials Division Ms. Frances Louissa C. Cleofas, Ms. Nova L. De Lara, and Mr. Luigi Kyle V. Rosales conducted the training for the second batch of participants. 

In his remarks delivered on the second day, TESDA Deputy Director General for TESD Operations Vidal D. Villanueva III encouraged the participants to learn about diplomatic protocol to provide the foreign dignitaries and guests with proper courtesy and respect. 

On the other hand, TESDA Executive Director for Administrative Services and Programs Sub-committee Lead Juliet O. Orozco underscored the importance of protocol in showcasing the Philippine trademark of hospitality. 

Over 150 participants, composed of personnel from different regions, were briefed on the fundamentals and principles of diplomatic protocol, social  graces, and etiquette over the two-day training. Participants also took part in several simulation exercises to gauge and enhance their knowledge and skills in preparation for the international skills competition. END

TESDA Deputy Director General for TESD Operations Vidal D. Villanueva III encouraged the participants to learn about diplomatic protocol 

Acting Director Frances Louissa C. Cleofas emphasizes the importance of the training and urges the participants to actively engage by asking questions

Participants prepare for their assigned scenarios based on the lectures discussed during the morning

Acting Director Mr. Christian Andrei C. Aguilar, Protocol Officers Ms. Trisha Erin L. Estaris and Mr. Fernando G. Abad, and TESDA Executive Director for Administrative Services and Programs Sub-committee Lead Juliet O. Orozco pose for a photo with the first batch of participants on 25 June 2025

Acting Director Frances Louissa C. Cleofas, Ms. Nova L. De Lara, Mr. Luigi Kyle V. Rosales, TESDA Deputy Director General for TESD Operations Vidal D. Villanueva III, and TESDA Executive Director for Administrative Services and Programs Sub-committee Lead Juliet O. Orozco pose for a photo with the second batch of participants on 26 June 2025