TESDA, Diageo launch 'bartending masterclass' to boost premium tourism skills

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Diageo Philippines have partnered to provide Filipino bartenders with globally recognized training, as the country seeks to strengthen its hospitality workforce amid growing demand for premium tourism experiences.

The two organizations recently signed a memorandum of agreement launching the “Diageo Masterclass Series,” a bartending development program that will supplement TESDA’s Bartending NC II curriculum with international training modules from the Diageo Bar Academy.

Under the partnership, aspiring bartenders will receive additional instruction on global mixology trends, spirits education, and modern bar management practices aimed at preparing them for careers in high-end bars, hotels, luxury resorts, and other hospitality establishments in the Philippines and abroad.

The initiative comes as the Philippines positions itself to attract higher-spending travelers seeking premium food, beverage, and hospitality experiences.

Citing research by Oxford Economics, Diageo Philippines said travelers are willing to spend more in destinations that offer exceptional hospitality experiences, underscoring the need for a highly skilled workforce in the sector.

The agreement was signed at the TESDA Administration Building in Taguig City and attended by TESDA Secretary Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez and Diageo Philippines General Manager Rachanatorn "Nok" Laohaphan.

“TESDA is proud to partner with Diageo Philippines in equipping Filipino bartenders with globally recognized skills that will enhance their competitiveness and open up more opportunities in the hospitality industry,” Benitez said.

“When the government and the private sector work together, we can better provide up-to-date training that leads to jobs,” he added.

According to Diageo Philippines, the program also forms part of its broader efforts to improve employability and skills development in the hospitality sector through initiatives such as Learning for Life and the Diageo Bar Academy.

The company said the collaboration supports efforts to elevate service standards in the country’s hospitality industry while creating additional opportunities for Filipino workers.—MCG, GMA News