President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. today appointed former Sultan Kudarat Governor Suharto Mangudadatu as Director General of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). Mangudadatu has a notable career in public service, including his stint as Representative of both the Lone District (2004-07) and First District (2016-19) of Sultan Kudarat.

Mangudadatu’s leadership abilities and dedication to public service led to his election as the Provincial Governor of the Provincial Government of Sultan Kudarat. He first held this position from July 2007 to June 2016, implementing various initiatives and programs aimed at the development and progress of the province. Recognizing his valuable contributions, he was re-elected as Governor, serving a second term from July 2019 to June 2022.

From July 1998 to June 2004, he served as the Municipal Mayor of the Municipality of Lutayan, Sultan Kudarat, demonstrating his early commitment to public service at the local level.

Building upon his success as a mayor, he was elected as the Congressman of the Lone District of Sultan Kudarat, serving from July 2004 to June 2007. During this time, he actively represented his constituents at the national level, advocating for their interests and working towards their betterment.

He pursued his college education at the South Western University in Cebu, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Therapy. In recognition of his outstanding achievements in his field and his exemplary service to his fellowmen, Mangudadatu was conferred with an honorary Doctor of Philosophy degree from Sultan Kudarat State University.