TESDA National Certification and Job Placement of UM-CHE Graduates: A Correlation Analysis

Abstract

The tourism and hospitality industry requires professionals who are competent and job-ready. This study examined the perceived significance and contribution of TESDA National Certification (NC) to the job placement of graduates from the University of Mindanao–College of Hospitality Education (UM-CHE). TESDA NCs aim to validate competencies in food and beverage services, front office operations, and tour guiding. Using a descriptive-correlational design, data were collected from 103 UM-CHE graduates from 2016 to 2020 to determine the role of NCs in employability. Results indicated that NCs are moderately beneficial, particularly in securing entry-level positions aligned with graduates’ qualifications. The highest perceived benefit was competency validation and job positioning, while lower impact was observed on long-term outcomes such as promotion, salary growth, and regularization. Correlation analysis revealed a significant relationship between perceived importance and employment contribution. Overall, TESDA NCs serve as valuable but non-exclusive tools for employability, emphasizing the need to strengthen curricula and instructional strategies aligned with industry-demand certifications.