Flexible Learning, Protocol Implementation, and Institutional Resilience in Technical and Vocational Education and Training: Evidence from Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines

Abstract

This study examined the implementation of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) arrangements during the COVID-19 “new normal” in Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines, and identified the institutional constraints that shaped flexible training delivery. Using a descriptive-comparative design, the study involved 50 respondents 12 administrators and 38 trainers from 12 public and private technical-vocational institutions. Data were gathered through a survey instrument based on TESDA Circular No. 66, series of 2020, and analyzed using frequency, percentage, weighted mean, t-test, F-test, and thematic ranking of reported challenges. Results showed that blended learning was the dominant delivery mode (66%), while 34% of respondents reported using a combination of distance and face-to-face learning. Overall, enrollment protocols were only partially implemented (M = 2.15), whereas training delivery (M = 2.63), assessment (M = 2.96), and administrative protocols (M = 2.92) were fully implemented. Administrators and trainers generally shared similar assessments of implementation. However, significant differences emerged in enrollment implementation by mode of delivery during MECQ and by institutional years of existence, and in assessment implementation by mode. The most frequently reported challenge was the lack of online learning resources (f = 44), followed by poor internet connectivity (f = 20), limited trainers’ IT skills (f = 10), insufficient administrative support (f = 4), and unavailable tools or facilities (f = 3). The findings suggest that regulatory compliance was strongest in areas supported by explicit monitoring and mandatory protocols, while digital learning capacity remained the principal weakness. The study argues that post-pandemic TVET resilience requires sustained investment in digital learning resources, trainer capability, connectivity, flexible enrollment systems, and hybrid models that preserve hands-on competency development.