Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has called for the strengthening of training and upskilling programs for Child Development Workers (CDWs) to improve the delivery of early childhood care and development (ECCD) services nationwide.

Gatchalian emphasized the need for high-quality training following a ceremonial graduation of CDWs and the launch of ECCD e-learning courses by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in Naga City.

“Mahalaga ang papel ng ating mga Child Development Workers, lalo na’t sila ang nagbibigay kalinga at nagpapatatag ng pundasyon ng mga batang wala pang limang taong gulang,” Gatchalian said.

The senator, principal sponsor of the Early Childhood Care and Development System Act (Republic Act No. 12199), highlighted that the law aims to ensure universal access to ECCD programs for children below five years old.

It also mandates competency assessments, certification, reskilling, and upskilling programs for CDWs, as well as scholarships for their continuing education.

Gatchalian also noted that the proposed 2026 national budget includes ₱226.9 million allocated for scholarships benefiting incumbent CDWs under TESDA’s Quality Technical Education and Skills Development Programs.

The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to professionalize early childhood educators and strengthen foundational learning across the country.