Filipinos can now enroll in free artificial intelligence (AI) and digital skills courses through the government’s technical training agency, with no degree or work experience required.
The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has integrated more than 30 courses from the HP LIFE Program into its online learning platform, e-tesda.gov.ph, following a partnership with the HP Foundation and UNESCO-UNEVOC. The catalog covers AI fundamentals, responsible AI use, entrepreneurship, digital marketing, finance, and business operations.
The program is open to students, fresh graduates, job seekers, overseas Filipino workers, career shifters, and working professionals. Most courses carry no educational prerequisites.
TESDA Secretary Kiko Benitez said the initiative addresses the accelerating adoption of technology across industries.
“As industries continue to transform through technology and innovation, it is important that Filipinos are equipped with the skills needed to remain competitive and adaptable in the future of work. Using e-TESDA, we can further expand access to quality training,” Benitez said.
All courses are self-paced. Learners study on their own schedule and may complete modules using a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer. A stable Internet connection and a valid email address are the only technical requirements.
Participants who finish the required modules, quizzes, and assessments receive a digital Certificate of Completion. TESDA clarified that this certificate is distinct from its National Certificate or Certificate of Competency, both of which still require a face-to-face competency assessment at an accredited testing center.
How to enroll in free AI courses
Interested learners may visit e-tesda.gov.ph, create a free account, and verify their registration through an email activation link. Once confirmed, they can browse available courses and enroll directly on the platform.
AI-related job postings in the Philippines have grown steadily as BPO companies expand into AI-adjacent roles and freelancers compete globally for automation and prompt engineering work. Private AI training courses can cost hundreds to several thousand pesos, with inconsistent quality. HP LIFE’s curriculum is globally used and standardized, giving the partnership added credibility.
The 30-plus course catalog also addresses a gap in regions outside Metro Manila, where private training providers are limited.
