Caraga pulse beat august 2013

2 c a r a g a pulse beat * august 2013

18 750 Surigao del Sur youths complete Cash for Training Program

The Cash for Training Program (C4TP) continues to benefit youths in the 1st and 2nd Districts of

Surigao del Sur...

6 Surigao del Sur local officials vow to support TESDA

Local officials of the province of Surigao del Sur have expressed their continuous support to the programs of TESDA as they see the relevance of

tech-voc educattion in nation-building...

14 TESDA-Caraga announces free assessment, certification

To expand clients’ access to assessment and certification program, TESDA-Caraga has

announced its free assessment and certification...

our coverP artners and

stakeholders of TESDA-

Caraga were honored in a ceremony held in time with

the agency’s 19th anniversary celebration. Also, personnel who have rendered 10, 15,

20, 25, 30, and 35 years of service were also given

recognition for their dedication and commitment towards the

attainment of the agency’s mandates and programs.

12 Mining industry & TESDA, partners for

dev’t in Caraga

Augustc o n t e n t s

s t r a i g h t n e w s

TESDA’s 19th Anniversary Celebration

2013

Cover Story on page 4To highlight TESDA’s 19th anniversary celebration, TESDA-Caraga honored partners, stakeholders and personnel who have become instruments of its success!

8 TESDA-Caraga promotes environmental protection

A tree-planting activity was conducted and participated in by TESDA-Caraga to promote

environmental awareness and protection...

n e w s f e a t u r e s

16 Rising up through the storms

s u c c e s s s t o r i e s

Soldier starts career through tech-voc

Tech-voc grad now a radio technician

Success through tech-voc education

Masseur earns income after skills training

10 10

11 11

3c a r a g a pulse beat * august 2013

RD’sMESSAGEEditorial Team

Florencio F. Sunico, Jr., DPARegional Director

Braulio P. Dela Peña, Jr.ROD Chief

Abegail B. EupeñaSenior TESD Specialist

Chiselo Joiada R. BernaldezAdministrative Assistant III

Robert E. RoperosJoey D. Dauz, Jr.Meriam U. Cultura

Consuelo T. DestacamentoMc Franco Zenu J. Franco

Regional and Provincial OfficesDirectory

Regional Office Florencio F. Sunico, Jr., DPARegional DirectorORD - (085) 815-7324ROD - (085) 341-5220Admin - (085) 225-3966

Rodrigo G. De VillaProvincial Director(085) 342-0085

Joventino D. AletaProvincial Director(085) 343-7278

Liza B. BudtanOIC Provincial Director(086) 826-2592

Rey M. CuevaProvincial Director(086) 211-3397

June Elizabeth B. TanquiengOIC Provincial Director

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-

-

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-

-

tesdacaraga.com

tesdacaraga.blogspot.com

facebook.com/tesda.caraga.1

twitter.com/tesdacaraga

web-based contact details:

[email protected]

Managing Director

Technical Adviser

Editor-in-chief

Managing Editor

Contributors

Layout Artists

Agusan del Norte

Agusan del Sur

Surigao del Norte

Surigao del Sur

Dinagat Islands

Delivered by Dr. Florencio F. Sunico Jr., TESDA-Caraga Regional Director, during the 19th TESDA Anniversary Celebration in Caraga Region and Awarding of partners, stakeholders and personnel.

Time and again, we have emphasized that the task o0f developing “Filipino workers with world class competence and positive work values,” as our vision states it, and the challenges attendant to the fulfillment of this mandate, is not the sole responsibility of TESDA, but a collective undertaking of a community of stakeholders. To borrow an old Indian adage, it takes a village to educate and train an individual.

Today, as we celebrate 19 years of TESDA, we formally honor and recognize our employees and partners who have toiled with us in the vineyards of technical vocational education and training. The strides and accomplishments that TESDA-Caraga had achieved over the years would not have been made possible without your unflinching support, commitment and belief that TESD as a national strategy works in empowering our fellow Filipinos to chart the course of their lives.

We celebrate TESDA’s anniversary this year amid the backdrop of new developments and reforms that are changing the landscape of education in the country. The anticipate full implementation of K to 12 in 2016 will effectively mainstream TVET into basic education and will afford senior high

school students the choice of a tech-voc program with job-ready skills. The promulgation of the Philippine Qualifications Framework meanwhile will provide a unified education pathway that will allow the smooth and seamless transition of students from TESD to higher education allowing them to acquire both technical competence and professional degrees. These two policy reforms will drastically shift the focus and thrust of TESDA as the country’s premier post-secondary technical education and training agency.

Indeed, at no other time in its history that TESDA finds more relevance and meaning in the context of national goals than today. This, with the public recognition no less than the President of the Republic accorded to TESDA in his latest State of the Nation Address (SONA), entails tremendous challenges that would test the limits of our organizational resources and capabilities. What lies ahead of these education reforms entails more responsibilities from all of us TESDAns and implies searching for more creative ways of generating support from all our partners and stakeholders.

And so today, we pause to honor our employees who have dedicated long, consistent and committed service to TESDA and its vision. We also give special recognition to one of TESDA Caraga’s pioneers and indisputably the founding father of TESDA-Caraga. Finally, we pay tribute to our institutional awardees, particularly to our strong and committed partners who in their own ways have made all the difference in what we have done.

As you can see, our partners represent an entire spectrum of institutions and individuals lending their resources to the cause of middle level skills development. From public to private sectors, from educational institutions to NGOs, school owners to trainers, local government executives to ordinary government employees, from the uniformed officers to civilians, we have covered the base. This is how wide and expansive the work of TESDA is.

It is said that gratitude is the expression of the heart. We therefore

Turn to page 17...


Cover Story

TESDA-Caraga honors partners, personnel by Robert E. Roperos

In time with its 19th anniversary celebration, Technical

Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Caraga has honored its partners, stakeholders, and personnel in a simple but glamorous and memorable ceremony.

The activity highlighted the agency’s month-long celebrationwhere partners and stakeholders were given recognition for thevaluable support they have given to the agency since its establishment. In his speech, TESDA-Caraga Regional Director Dr. Florencio Sunico,Jr. emphasized that the significant contribution of TESDA-Caraga’s partnersand stakeholders has contributed to the success of the agency in the region. “… Because of this, it is but fitting for our partners and stakeholders to berecognized as a simple way of acknowledging their significant role in the successfulimplementationofplansandprogramsofTESDAhereinCaragaRegion,”Dir.Sunicosaid. Dr.SunicoalsopointedoutthatthroughthededicationandcommitmentshownbypersonnelofTESDA-Caraga,theyhavebecomethepillarsofsuccessforwhateverplanandprogramsimplementedintheregioninasfarastechnical-vocationaleducationisconcerned. “With this exceptional commitment and dedication, they(personnel) must also be given due recognition,” Sunico said. Leading the list of awardees is Regional Development Council (RDC)Chair and Surigao del Norte Gov. Sol F. Matugas who is chosen as this year’sTESDA Kabalikat Regional Winner. The provincial government of Agusandel Sur and AMA-CLC Butuan also received Special Awards as runners-up. Further,2013TESDAidolregionalwinners:AljonAmpointhewage-employedcategoryandBernadetteManuelundertheself-employedcategoryeachreceivedplaquesofrecognitionandP5,000cashprizefromTESDAofficialsintheregion.KremlinVerdeflorandArnoldPanganwhoweredeclaredrunners-upinthewage-employedcategoryalsoreceivedrecognition. In Agusan del Norte, TESDA has recognized its partners such as the PhilippineArmy;sH3SFBN,SFR(A)SouthernCommand,RotaryClubofCentralButuan,andAMACLC. Gov.AdolphEdwardPlazawasalsogivenrecognitiontogetherwithTESDA-Agusandel Sur partners: Engr. Emmanuel Galarse, Divina Lagumbay, and Flordeliza Obani. The provincial government of Surigao del Norte also received a recognition


from TESDA Officials for its remarkable support to TESDA-Surigaodel Norte Provincial Office. Completing the list of awardees in theregion are: Platinum Group Metals Corporation (PGMC), SurigaoEducation Center (SEC), and Regional TESDA Idol Bernadette Manuel. Furthermore, local officials and personalities in Surigao del Surwas also accordedwith recognition for regularly supporting the agency’sprovincialoffice.Theywere:SangguniangPanlalawiganMembersEleanorMomo and Teresita Donasco; Barobo Mayor Felixberto Urbiztondo;Carmen Mayor Antonio Borda Jr.; Hinatuan Mayor Candelario Viola Jr.;Lanuza Mayor Salvacion Azarcon; and Madrid Mayor Jose Arpilleda. Other personalities who were recognized are Efren Rivas Jr., AldyNovo,CharlitoLerog,Engr. JoselitoSegarro,Col.GregoryCayetanoof thePhilippine Army, and Regional TESDA Idol runner-up Kremlin Verdeflor. Moreover, Cagdianao Mayor Marc Adelson Longos andProf. Pacita Orbita of Don Jose Ecleo Memorial Foundation Collegeare among the awardees in the Province of Dinagat Islands. Loyaltyaward isalsobestowedonTESDApersonnel.CirilaManejawas given recognition for her 35 years of service which started in theNationalManpowerandYouthCouncil(NMYC),theformernameofTESDA.TessieAtonandFeManejawerealsorecognizedfortheir30yearsofservice. Personnelwhohaveservedtheagencyfor25yearsareasfollows:DaniloTobias,AgrecioBasul,FloritoAvenido,BenignoBonggot,andMarthaDaleBual. Underthe20yearsServiceAward,fourpersonnelweregivenrecognition:Lilian Bertumen, Ma. Felomina Balois, Dina Sibi, and Victoria Sumayod. Meanwhile, RD Sunico led the awardees, together with SurigaodelSurProvincialDir.ReyCueva,SurigaodelNorteOIC-ProvincialDir.LizaBudtan, andDinagat IslandsOIC-ProvincialDir. June Elizabeth Tanquieng,whohavereceivedthesamerecognitionfor15yearsofdedicatedservice. Otherawardeesinclude:ConsueloDestacamaneto,AbegailEupeña,IsabelitaFuria,FeGomez,RomelNatad,MariaCristinaSoberano,ArnaldoCabañas, Edilberto Tamiok, Armando Anino, Norberto Dorado, ReinoGaballo,JudithAsegurado,RubenCardoza,JoselitoEcoben,EdwinLanquino,CelestinoAres,AllanMillan,JoyDeroca,JulianSalaoJr.,LeliosaMendoza,Gemma Fe Balanay, Florita Uayan, Rollie Arellano, and Jerry Bernadez. Personnel who have rendered 10 years of service alsoreceived their recognition. The awardees are: Ivy Arbas, SherlyCeniza, Ronnie Odtojan, Marie Peña, and Sheryll Paramo. In a related development, former TESDA Executive DirectorJuanito Cueva was also given recognition during the event. Accordingly,Dir.CuevaisamongthepillarsofTESDA-CaragawhohaveledthecreationofskeletalforceinCaragaafterthecreationoftheregionin1997. Thisyear’sTESDAanniversarycelebrationisanchoredonthetheme:“TESDAatManggawangFilipino:MagkasanggasaPatuloynaPag-asenso.”

TESDA-Caraga officials with partner-awardees from Butuan City and Agusan del Norte

TESDA-Caraga officials with partner-awardees from Agusan del Sur

TESDA-Caraga officials with partner-awardees from Surigao del Norte

TESDA-Caraga officials with partner-awardees from Surigao del Sur

TESDA-Caraga officials with one of the partner-awardees from Dinagat Islands Province


Surigao del Sur local officials vow to support TESDA

by Robert E. Roperos

L ocal officials

of Surigao

del Sur have vowed to

continuously support all

undertakings of the Technical

Education and Skills

Development Authority (TESDA).

The development came after the successful implementation of the Cash for Training Program (C4TP) was made where a total of 750 beneficiaries have finished the training and were conferred by TESDA in two separate ceremonies on August 15, 2013. Surigao del Sur Gov. Johnny T. Pimentel said the C4TP has helped in realizing the dreams and aspirations of the Surigaonon youths through delivery of free education. “All scholarship programs of TESDA have remarkably helped in transforming the lives of every individual which prepares him/her for global competition,” Pimentel said. Pimentel added because of the

Tandag City Administrator Alexander T. Pimentel

1st Dist. Cong. Philip A. Pichay

Gov. Johnny T. Pimentel


Surigao del Sur local officials vow to support TESDA

success of the C4TP and other TESDA-initiated scholarship programs, he promised to continuously support all the programs of the agency. “The C4TP opens the doors for the future of the Surigaonons especially the youths, and because of this remarkable success, I am giving my all out support to TESDA until the end of my term in 2016,” Gov. Pimentel said. The chief executive of the province likewise said the C4TP graduates are very fortunate because aside from developing their skills, the government has also provided them with toolkits. With this, he said the graduates are now ready to start earning income. “You are very fortunate because the government has not only developed your skills, you were also provided with toolkits which you can use to immediately look for livelihood, aside from the allowance that you have already received. With all these, I hope you will take care of it and whatever you learned from it, make the best out of it,” Pimentel said. For his part, Tandag City former Mayor and now City Administrator Alexander Pimentel has also signified his support to TESDA. He said more people from Tandag City, in particular were able to succeed in their chosen careers. To encourage the C4TP graduates in the province’s 1st District, Administrator Pimentel shared the success stories of TESDA graduates from the city who are now employed locally and in abroad. Because of the success of these graduates, he expressed his support to TESDA, as he believed that the agency will give brighter future to Tandag City and the entire province of Surigao del Sur. “I believed that TESDA can give brighter future to Tandag City and in Surigao del Sur. Because of this, I also expressed my support to the agency,” he said. In a related development, Surigao del Sur 1st District Congressman Philip Pichay has also committed to provide more TESDA scholarships. He said he believed that skilled manpower can lead to economic development. He also stressed that if there are scholars, more youths will be trained. “If you are trained by TESDA, you are a skilled individual… And if people are trained, they can create sustainable development to their communities,” Pichay said. To be specific, Cong. Pichay has vowed to allocate some P2 million in his Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) for TESDA scholarships in 2014. He added for the remaining months in 2013, he has already allocated some P500,000 for same purpose. April Anne delos Reyes from Surigao Doctors’ College who is a C4TP graduate of Housekeeping NC-II said aside from the skills she acquired during the training, she has also learned values which was imparted to them by their trainers. She added during the period of their training, they have enjoyed what they did which is a contributing factor for them to learn fast. “Aside from learning, we also enjoyed what we’re doing that’s why we learn fast,” delos Reyes said. Underscoring what the government has positively done to his life, John Glaizelle Siman, an NC-II Driving and NC-III Automotive C4TP graduate said he is profoundly grateful and touched by the great perspective of the government in shaping both the aspirations and expectations of the people in the task of nation-building. He added the C4TP becomes the avenue of the youths in developing their skills to become assets of their community, instead of being a liability because they are well trained. Also, Rene Dumanhog, a SMAW NC-II graduate from Bayabas, Surigao del Sur expressed his thanks and gratitude to TESDA and DSWD since he was able to finish the Tech-Voc program. His right foot was amputated months ago before the training started. However, this did not hinder him to finish the program. When asked what difficulties he encountered during the training, he said being differently-abled is not easy, however, because of his determination and with God’s help, he managed to finish the training. “Dili gyud dali ang akong nasinati-an sa dihang nipa-ilawom ko sa pagbansay tungod sa akong kahimtang. Apan tungod sa akong determinasyon nga makalampos sa akong pagtuon ug gibuligan sad sa kahitas-an, nahimo akong magmalampuson” (My experience during the training is not that easy because of my situation. But because I am determined to finish my education with help from God, I have succeeded and conquered everything,” Dumanhog said. C4TP is a joint undertaking of TESDA and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) designed to assist disadvantaged youth by giving them training, and helping them to find work or livelihood. This is in support to the poverty alleviation program of the national government. (RER, TESDA-Caraga)

Bislig City Mayorn Librado Navarro

Surigao del Sur 1st Lady Rosalinda Pimentel


TESDA-Caraga promotes environmental protectionby Robert E. Roperos

In an effort to promote environmental protection,

personnel of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has recently conducted a tree-planting activity.

In an interview with a local broadcaster recently, Mr. Braulio dela Peña, TESDA-Caraga Regional Operations Division (ROD) Chief said the activity is also in line with the 19th anniversary celebration of TESDA. Dela Peña also said this is a contribution of TESDA to the National Greening Program of the present administration for whom TESDA Sec. Joel J. Villanueva is also advocating, which supported the Climate Change Mitigation and Environmental Protection Cluster of the Philippine Development Plan. “This activity is conducted not only

because of the 19th anniversary celebration of TESDA. More importantly, this is our contribution to the national government’s effort in mitigating the impact brought about by climate Change through environmental protection,” dela Peña said. Also, personnel of the Northern Mindanao School of Fisheries (NMSF) in Matabao, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte participated the activity where some 50 narra seedlings were planted in the ground of the said school. Dela Peña recalled this is not the first time that TESDA employees have conducted such activity. He said seedlings


TESDA-Caraga promotes environmental protection

planted during their previous tree planting activity have already grown. The official further elated over the success of the previous activity, saying “it’s a good feeling to know that the seedlings we have planted before are now fully grown into trees… hoping this can help in mitigating the impact brought about by climate change.” In other development, a thanksgiving mass was conducted prior to the Awarding Ceremony which highlighted the 19th TESDA Anniversary Celebration of TESDA in Caraga Region. This year’s TESDA anniversary celebration is anchored on the theme: “TESDA at Manggawang Filipino: Magkasangga sa Patuloy na Pag-asenso” (TESDA and Filipino workers, partners in continuous development). (RER, TESDA-Caraga)

TESDA-Caraga ROD Chief Braulio dela Peña is shown here being interviewed by Leo Fernandez of 103.9 Radyo Trumpeta.

10 c a r a g a pulse beat * july 2013

Olin P. Caduyac, resident of Quezon,Tandag City, Surigao del Sur , High School graduate with post-secondary technical-vocation education in Consumer

Electronics Servicing and Driving .

Sending him to College is quite impossible for his parents with meager income just enough to sustain their daily needs. After his high school years, he made sure to help his parents in his own little way thru “pa extra-extra “job as a construction helper. Truly, his earnings more or less had contributed a lot to his family. Olin did not stop dreaming of making his worth and to be more productive especially during his idle time until finally, he heard through the radio about skills training supported by the Hon. Congressman Philip A. Pichay at the Access for Youth training and Employment Center (AYEC). He opted to enroll in Consumer Electronics Servicing (CES) NC II which aligned to his interest. After completing the CES program, he again enrolled at the Jobs through Tech-Voc Provincial Skills Training Center (JTP-PSTC) for Driving NC II believing the importance of having multi-skills in

the labor market of today. Craving for success in the National Assessment of these two qualifications, he showed his diligence, passion and customer-focused attitude during the training period and exposure to actual work situation that enables him to pass the national assessment both in CES NC II and Driving NC II with flying colors. To obtain more experience in Driving and in doing domestic appliances repair, Olin voluntarily offers his driving skills and electronics services to his relatives and friends. Another opportunity came, when the Philippine Army announces hiring for military men with knowledge/skills in Driving. With God’s blessings, Olin with confidence applied the position. His National Certificates in CES and Driving made him one the priorities from among the applicants. He was enlisted and now he is receiving a salary of

not less than fifteen thousand (P 15,000.00) pesos a month. Aside from his fix monthly income, he also has an extra income derive from his skills in home appliances repair. Olin says “My TESDA National Certificates II in Consumer Electronics Servicing NC II and Driving NC II made me a priority recruit in the Philippine Army.”

Jonniel F. Quezada is a High School Graduate of Jacinto P. Elpa National High School, Tandag City, Surigao del Sur. Given no chance to go to College because of financial quandary, he enrolled at the Access for

Youth training and Employment Center

(AYEC) taking up Consumers E l e c t r o n i c s S e r v i c i n g (CES) NC II and Computer H a r d w a r e Servicing NC II Course as scholar in CES program under the Training for

Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) through the effort of the Hon. Congressman Philip A. Pichay of the first District of the Province of Surigao del Sur. Jonniel has demonstrated his love and commitment to his job during his “On the Job Training” at the Rich’s Electronics Shop that

encourages the proprietor/owner of the shop to recommend him to the DXBB Sure FM, Tandag City as Technician. His recommendation was considered and now Jonniel is receiving a basic salary of Php 6,000.00 per month. He is also earning extra income by accepting repairs of home appliances.According to Jonniel, TESDA courses should not be looked down because those who have the skills are the ones needed not only locally but most especially abroad.Jonniel extends his heartfelt thanks to TESDA, Congressman Philip A. Pichay and City Government of Tandag thru the AYEC his Alma matter for the training opportunities provided to the young individuals who cannot afford to go to college but with a dream to change the wheel of poverty they are experiencing. Jonniel is still looking forward to work abroad in order to help his family especially his siblings.

Tech-voc grad now a radio technician

SUCCESS STORIESSoldier starts career thru tech-voc

11c a r a g a pulse beat * july 2013

A store owner at Madrid, Surigao del Sur, Mr. Marlon T. Ponlaon is a native of Burgos,

Cortes Surigao del Sur.

Mr. Ponlaon had proven that poverty is not a hindrance to his dream of reaching college education. With his positive attitude, he engages various self-help economic activities like vending pork barbecue for him to sustain in college and finally settled as house helper until the time he graduated with a course Bachelor of Science in Finance Administration. With the information he got over the radio about the Training for Work Scholarship Program - a free skills training supported by the Hon. Congressman Philip A. Pichay , out of curiosity Marlon enrolled in Consumer Electronics Servicing NC II at Access for Youth Training and Employment Center (AYEC) Center. He just wanted to experience TVET education by that time.

A f t e r a couple of sessions in the e lec t ron ics laboratory, he found it very exciting. He gave his best during the training and successfully performed the required competencies during the national assessment.Marlon tried his luck at Singapore after the painful tragedy happen to his wife who died due to severe illness but “there is no place like home” after one year, he decided to come home to open a business in Madrid. The MJ Commercial and Cellphone repair shop was established. With his training in

consumer electronics, he was able to run his business efficiently. His shop offered cellphone repair and other services related to electronics servicing. Now he has two employees (sales boy and sales lady). His average monthly income is not less than 20,000.00 pesos. Success in his business goes hand in hand with his success in love life. He found a new love and soon to be wedded. He is planning also to expand and branch out his establishment in other locations in the province.

Masseur earns income after skills training

A rcilla G. Subibi, married, a resident of Mangagoy, Bislig

City, is a Baccalaureate Degree holder, and an NC II holder

Massage Therapist.

Rearing a special child is such a very challenging job for a mother like Arcilla. Indeed, it is one of her reasons to eagerly learn the skills in Massage Therapy aside from her interest of earning out of this skill. The training opportunity came when the Office of Congressman Florencio C. Garay of the 2nd District of Surigao del sur announced the said training for free.

Taking the training seriously, Arcilla successfully made it during the National Competency Assessment level II. For two months

she continued doing the massage therapy to further enhance her skills without asking any amount from her

patients.

Her intense desire to become one of the trainers of the same qualification as well decided her to undergo the Trainer’s Methodology (TM1) and Assessment Methodology (AM1) and luckily passed the requirements of the said training. It was a breakthrough for her, since patients are coming in and so she took the lead in organizing the Bislig Massage Therapists Association (BISMASTA) with its massage

clinic now located at the heart of Bislig City.

At present, Ms. Subibi’s source of income is out of her earnings in the massage clinic they put up aside from her home services with a total minimum amount of one thousand pesos (P 1,000.00) per day. Aside from this, she is also earning a minimum of Five Thousand Pesos (P 5,000.00) honorarium as trainer per training conducted. Truly, it helped augment her family’s income.

Ms. Subibi says “in whatever endeavor, do it with passion and dedication, exercise professionalism and integrity, always strive for quality and excellence, and success is most likely to follow.”

SUCCESS STORIESSuccess through tech-voc education


Mining industry & TESDA, partners for dev’t in Caraga

feature

C araga’s mineral

deposits have

boosted the economy of

the region and in Mindanao. Its fast

emerging mining industries pushed it to become the mining capital of

the Philippines that attracted the local and foreign

investors.

Caraga is located in the Northeastern part of Mindanao where the largest deposits of gold, nickel, chromite, manganese, base metals, and silver ore are found. The region is composed of the five provinces namely: Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte; and Surigao del Sur. The blessed richness of mineral resources in the region is distributed in all the five provinces but Surigao del Norte accounts the bigger share of the pie. Since Caraga became a separate region in 1995, it has been in the list of the poorest regions in the country. It has been consistently ranked among the bottom until the mining boomed in 2006. Former National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Caraga Regional Director Carmencita Conchingco was quoted in a report saying: “Our economy is considered the second fastest growing economy in 2007. We have grown more than 8% primarily because of mining. It is currently driving our economy.” Local governments and potential investors identified the region as the biggest iron deposit in the world and second biggest in terms of nickel deposits. It is said that Caraga’s mineral reserves is valued at US$10 billion. But despite its huge reserve and the presence of 35 mining players, Caraga’s economic footing has not improved and has remained in the list of poorest regions in the country. Host communities of these mining sites said they are deprived of job opportunities as most mining companies hire engineers and geologists from Luzon and Visayas. They said Mindanao lacked enough qualified and highly-skilled manpower to cater the special requirements of the industry. In fact in 2009, the mining industry in Caraga only employed approximately 9,200 workers (excluding small-scale miners), of which more than 6,200 were full-time employees, according to a report by the DENR-MGB. To address the problem of these specialized job requirements of the mining companies, some 51 job titles were identified by the Caraga Chamber of Mines in 2010. In the same year, the local government units particularly, Surigao del Norte, strived to collaborate with the mining companies to plan programs and projects directed to poverty alleviation through livelihood and skills training and employment of the people. One of its significant projects is the establishment of a Provincial Community Training Center in Bad-as, Placer, Surigao del Norte. Sec. 59 of the Mining Act of the Philippines put emphasis on training and development as part of the obligation of the contracting mining operation. A contractor shall maintain an effective program of manpower training and development throughout the term of the mineral agreement and shall encourage and train Filipinos to participate in all aspects of the mining operations, including the management thereof. Subsequently, Sec. 62 of the same Act recognizes the employment of Filipinos in all types of mining

by Elena O. Cacho

Turn to page 15...


VoicesBeneficiaries who have graduated in the different provinces of Caraga shared their impressions on the implementation of the Cash for Training Program. from the heart...

What can you say about C4TP? The Cash for Training Program (C4TP), a joint undertaking of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) was implemented simultaneously nationwide early this year. Did the program helped the beneficiaries in attaining their dreams and aspirations through free technical-vocational education? Following are the impressions of some beneficiaries in Caraga Region.

“Because of C4TP, I am confident that I can compete with the rest of the skilled individuals around the globe. Thanks to TESDA and DSWD.”

Crispiniano Sajor, Jr. Driving NC-II & Automechanic NC-III Malimono, Surigao del Norte

“The Cash for Training Program is a good intervention of the government to alleviate poverty. I was able to develop not only my skills but my personality, as well.”

Joemari D. Solana Commercial Cooking NC-II Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte

“I am very much fortunate to have been chosen as among the recipients of this scholarship program of DSWD and TESDA. This is a big help for me and my family as fulfilling my dreams and aspirations is now within my reach.” James Escaret SMAW NC-II Bislig City, Surigao del Sur

“I am profoundly grateful and touched by the great perspective of the government in shaping both the aspirations and expectations of the people in the task of nation-building.” John Glaizelle Siman Driving NC-II & Automechanic NC-III Tandag City, Surigao del Sur


free assessment,TESDA-Caraga announces

To expand clients’ access to assessment and certification program, the Technical Education and Skills Development A`uthority (TESDA), through its regional and provincial offices in Caraga has announced its free assessment and certification.

During its program launching held recently at the Multi-Media Center (MMC) of Saint Joseph Institute of Technology (SJIT) in this city, TESDA-Caraga Regional Operations Division (ROD) Chief Braulio dela Peña said the activity is being pushed by TESDA Director-General Sec. Joel J. Villanueva “basically to upgrade the qualification of existing workers, trainers and assessors to a higher level of qualification.” Dela Peña also said the project aimed to promote assessment and certification program at the company/enterprise level. Also, TESDA-Caraga Regional Director Dr. Florencio Sunico Jr. stressed that assessment and certification are unique mandates of TESDA which is dedicated to all Filipino workers here and especially in abroad. The conduct of free assessment, Sunico said is the third season which was started in 2010 when Sec. Villanueva assumed the position as TESDA Director-General. Sunico stressed the National TVET

Competency Assessment and Certification (NATCAC) is intended for the self-employed and wage-employed Filipino workers in different industries. Further, the region’s TESDA chief said certification is an important tool or requirement especially when workers want to work abroad. “If workers are already holders of National Certificates (NCs), it matters on the qualification of works, thus they will receive high rate,” Sunico said. Thru NATCAC, Dir. Sunico said TESDA has been extending the assessment and certification to workers to ensure sustainability in their respective fields. “We are dreaming that one day, no workers working in different industries who are not NC holders… In this way, we can be sure that the quality of works and services that these workers offered, have passed the national and international standards,” Dr. Sunico said. NATCAC is a synchronized conduct of

competency assessment and certification in identified key qualifications that are critical, hard to find and with high industry demand. The TESDA Assessment and Certification services will be offered for free at the regional and provincial levels funded by the Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP). Trainers of private and public Technical-Vocational Institutions (TVIs), local government units (LGUs), and other government agencies providing TVET programs and DepEd trainers, Public Utility Vehicle (PUV), Drivers, Workers/ Industry Practitioners/ Professional/ Career shifter, OFWs, Filipino expatriates with relevant experience, industry practitioners who are prospective competency assessors may apply for free assessment and certification. Interested applicants may submit duly accomplished application form, Self-Assessment Guide (SAG), and three (3) passport size pictures in white background with name written at the back to TESDA Accredited Competency Assessment Centers or in TESDA

certificationcertification



Provincial and District Offices. Among the qualifications covered with promulgated training regulations are: Automotive and Land Transport; Construction; Electronics; Information and Communications Technology; Tourism; Agri-Fishery; Metals and Engineering; Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC); and Health and other Social Community Development Services (HSCDS). The schedule and venue for the national assessment per qualification will be determined by the regional and provincial offices and will cover from August 19, 2013 to December 15, 2013. Each Regional Office or Provincial Office will establish a Certificate Issuance Desk to facilitate printing and releasing of NC or Certificate of Competency (COC). These certificates will be issued to the successful candidates on the last day of the assessment week. For further information, visit the TESDA website at www.tesda.gov.ph or visit your nearest TESDA Regional, Provincial, and District Offices. (RER, TESDA-Caraga)

employment within the country insofar as such citizens are qualified to perform the corresponding work with reasonable efficiency and without hazard to the safety of the operations. Relative to these requirements the Chamber of Mines Caraga religiously abide these requirements putting in place training for employment budget of their Social Development Management Program (SDMP) every year. How far has this SDMP reached to the people in the mining communities? In our own experience in Surigao del Norte it is observed that the mining’s community relations managers are the ones coming to the office to tie up their training programs together with other private offices on a possible public –private partnership for the host communities. They see to it that the SDMP shares the part of providing skills training program for employment requirement in the company and livelihood trainings especially for the women. The Social Development Management Program (SDMP) of the mining industry in Caraga has blasted its commitment and advocacy on responsible mining. “Our environmental commitments has been fully implemented with a bang through the environmental protection and enhancement program that includes tree planting for the National Greening Program and the Mechanical dredging for the “Adopt- a- River’ program” said Girlie Jayme, ICE Officer-PGMC. Jayme said Platinum Group Metals Corporation (PGMC)-SDMP heated its maximum

on sustainable livelihood and skills training which are aimed for additional workforce and employment opportunities of the mining communities and the provincial locals. On the other hand, Engr. Jose B. Anievas, Taganito Mining Corporation (TMC) Resident Mine Manager, expressed the need of skilled hands in the mining industry. “The mining engineers can do

little if there is no skilled labor available. The host communities often complained that the residents are not hired to the mines mainly because the local labor are not trained and with no experience.” Among the skills training conducted by TMC in 2010 is the Masonry NC II in partnership with Pacific Cement Corporation (PACEMCO), Chamber of Mines-Caraga and TESDA to certify the labor manpower that

is much needed in the Taganito HPAL Construction projects. Recognizing the value of the masons to its business and the construction industry as a whole, the Pacific Cement Philippines formerly PACEMCO has adopted masonry training as its Corporate Social Responsibility Flagship Program. The program provides basic and advanced masonry skills training

for prospective and uncertified masons. For the local prospective masons, they are taught with the basic properties of cement, masonry tools and equipment, bonds and joints, carpentry, trade mathematics and safety in the workplace. It is the objective of the company to enhance the knowledge and skills of local masons by providing appropriate training and skills recognition. The mining companies did not only provide the livelihood and skills training programs in the different mining communities but they also provided them the community livelihood training centers that are manned by the community technical working group who manages the different training programs. These training centers are established by the TMC, PGMC in their respective premises; and an enterprise development center in Hinatuan

Mining Corporation (HMC) which is presently providing employment among the members of the community. Thus, a sustainable mining is presently experienced in Surigao del Norte and other parts in Caraga Region.

Mining industry... from page 12...


Among the crop of prospective assessment takers, she stood out based on my impression as a lady of keen disposition and strength of character. Though she acted like any other teenager in the company of her classmates, still she appeared much composed and tranquil in comparison with many of them. The momentary meet up was of course swept under the rug as nothing but part of official function on my part. After two months, however, I retraced my footsteps at SMCC in response to an assignment of searching for tech-voc grads that are worthy to be featured. When inquired from Mrs. Luzviminda Loquinte, SMCC’s Head of Technical Department, she suggested that I see Ms. Sabando, the first ever SMCC tech-voc grad of year 2013 who landed a job shortly after graduation. Did I hit bulls’ eye with my impression of her before? Whatever, I vowed to see and interview her one at Wjieska, a community restaurant here, which is owned by a couple living abroad. FOR A SMALL TOWN such as Nasipit, Wjieska stands for a comfy and cozy dining place . . . and it is in this setting that I got to interact with Grecyl again. Indeed, after a lull of not seeing each other for several weeks, I was surprise to note that she still recognized me when I entered her workplace. When the pleasantries toned down, I started quizzing her about her background and what matters most in her life right now. “Actually, I am not a native of this place,” she opened up. “My hometown is in Hinundayan, Southern Leyte where I grew up and matured early in life. I was in 2nd year high school way back in 2008 when my beloved mother took her life due to stress and financial troubles.” When she mentioned it, she paused, took a tissue paper available at the table and requested, “Can I be allowed to cry, sir?” “You may,” I replied, “as it will be a good release for whatever pent up emotions that you got.” Of course, my heart went out with her, who at the tender age of 14 before had to grapple with the grave vicissitudes of life. After a minute or two, we continued in between her wheezing and tear drops. She shared that she lacked the comprehension why, after what had happened, “other students in my school continued to harangue and bully me with put downs and let downs . . . reminding me that my mother was insane.” I felt she was sharing a stuff tailored-fit for Maala-ala Mo Kaya. At times, admittedly, I had to clear my throat also. She could have stopped schooling by then, because her lowly father was just a tenant and had no fixed income to boast. However, it was the timely intervention of her Auntie Marina Capilitan – who promised to support her through thick and thin until she could flap her wings and fly – which gave her the motivation to continue, no matter what. So, while eating some dust, figuratively, from time to time from some of her insensitive school mates, she continued to burn the midnight candle

I first met Grecyl C.

Sabando at the portals

of the Saint Michael College

of Caraga here when I, as a TESDA

Representative, facilitated in

administering the assessment for

Food and Beverage Services NC II for a

group of graduating tech-voc students

under the two-year Hotel and Restaurant Management course.

feature

Rising up through the stormsRising up through the stormsWith the aid of tech-voc education by Joey D. Dauz, Jr.


and vowed to rise up from the gutters, so that someday she will have a stable job and come to the rescue of her younger siblings. At 16 years of age, she graduated from Lungsodaan National High School at her hometown and forthwith migrated to Nasipit where she was taken care of by Mrs. Reynilda Alas, another aunt of hers whom she fondly calls as “mommy” and who is a close sister of her benefactor, Auntie Marina. And how time flew so fast; the sixteener is now 18 years of age and had just graduated from SMCC armed with at least two national certifications. Because she was found to be industrious and diligent during her OJT days, her employer swiftly liked her and in so short a time offered to take her in as a regular employee. Alas, effective 22nd day of April 2013, she signed a contract as a mainstay worker thereby providing her with a PhP150.00 wage per eight hours of work, a free meal, SSS, Pag-IBIG, and PhilHealth, plus some tips of course from appreciative customers. From time to time, she gets to send some money for her two younger siblings who are going to school as a kindergarten and a 3rd year high school respectively. She wiped off some tears from her eyes and began to muse of a better future. “I hope to go abroad someday,” she divulged, “so that I can fully help my siblings, just like what Auntie Marina had done for me. I aim to be financially secured also someday.” She revealed that taking up a tech-voc course was her swiftest way to finish schooling and land a job. “I don’t want to be beholden indefinitely to my aunties; I want to break free in a positive sense, so that I could also be a blessing to my younger siblings.” Still, as an intervening saga, while she thought that everything seems to be going smoothly as she planned, she was pained to hear that her father was eyeing a younger maiden back in their hometown and wanted to take her as his new-found inamorata at the altar of marriage. Feeling that it was a desecration to the memory of her beloved mother, she fought it off furiously like a woman spurned. Her father backed off eventually, and decided to respect her feelings and her dream of making it through someday. Right now, as one made of firmer stuff, she’s intent on cruising through in her attempt to weather the storms of life along her way. For sure, there are still so many challenges to be hurdled along the way. But right now she’s thankful to the Lord for allowing her to collect the broken pieces of her life in order to make a better work of art out of it. Furthermore, she was thankful to note that “I coming full circle gradually, being helped and buttressed in no small measure by my tech-voc education.”

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) was established through the enactment of Republic Act No. 7796 otherwise known as the “Technical Education and Skills Development Act of 1994”, which was signed into law by President Fidel V. Ramos on August 25, 1994. This Act aims to encourage the full participation of and mobilize the industry, labor, local government units and technical-vocational institutions in the skills development of the country’s human resources.

TESDA through the years...InfoBits


750 Cash for Training Program

Surigao del Sur youthsfinish750

A total of 750 Cash for Training Program (C4TP) beneficiaries

in two districts of Surigao del Sur have received their Certificates of Training Completion on August 15, 2013.

This, after series of culmination activities conducted in Surigao del Norte and Agusan del Norte on July. The beneficiaries were conferred graduates by Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Provincial Director Rey Cueva in separate ceremonies. In the province’s first district, 302 beneficiaries received their certificates at the Covered Court of Bislig City Hall in the morning while 448 were conferred graduates in the afternoon in a ceremony held at the Provincial Social Hall in Tandag City. In his Welcome Message, Bislig City Mayor Librado Navarro emphasized that the program is a bold move of the government to make the people more responsible and ready to face challenges so that they can contribute to whatever means for the community’s development. Mayor Librado also informed the C4TP graduates that the privilege which the government has given them must be taken cared of. He added this investment must be returned through responsible actions so that economic development of the community will be achieved. “Kini nga lakang sa atong panggamhanan usa ka maisognon nga paagi aron mapaabot ngadto sa katawhan ang tukmang serbisyo pinaagi sa pag pang-apud-apud og libreng edukasyon ngadto sa atong mga kabataan” (This bold move of the government is a way of delivering services to the people through



free education to the youths), Librado said. Meanwhile, TESDA-Caraga Regional Director Florencio Sunico Jr. said the government is investing for the future of the Filipino youths through the C4TP. He added this is one of the effective tools to battle poverty. The official also said the trainings offered by TESDA are aligned to the poverty alleviation program of the national government. The TESDA chief of the region also reminded the graduates to make use of the skills they have acquired during their trainings since this will help them transform their lives. With the skills trainings provided by TESDA and DSWD through the C4TP, Dir. Sunico said he is confident that graduates in this program can easily look for jobs whether in the local or in the international fields. He also said thru the support of government agencies and LGUs, the graduates will succeed in their chosen skills/careers. “Through the skills trainings provided by TESDA and DSWD through this program, I am confident that you can easily look for jobs – it may be in the local or international fields… Through the support of government agencies and the local government units, you will succeed in your chosen skills/careers,” Sunico said, addressing to the graduates. Moreover, DSWD-Caraga Administrative and Development Support Chief Mary Ann Manla encouraged the C4TP graduates in Bislig City to excel in their chosen skills. She pointed out that the skills acquired by the graduates must be added with proper values to ensure success. “To ensure that you will succeed in all your endeavors, you must also put in your mind the need to have proper values aside from the skills that you have now acquired,” Manla said. In his impression to the C4TP, James Escaret, from Saint Vincent de Paul College in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur said the program is a big help in fulfilling the dreams and aspirations of the Filipino people especially the youths. He likewise acknowledged the DSWD, TESDA and LGUs for the rare

opportunity given to him, which he believed will transform his life, as well as his family. “I am very much fortunate to have been chosen as among the recipients of this scholarship program of DSWD and TESDA. This is a big help for me and my family as fulfilling my dreams and aspirations is now within my reach,” Escaret said. Also, Catherine Buctuanon, a graduate in the Commercial Cooking/Foods and Beverages Services (FBS) from Andres Soriano College in Bislig City emphasized that the training she acquired in the program has prepared her to face challenges. She added if ever given the chance to establish her own business, she is optimistic that she will succeed because she is already equipped with knowledge, skills and right attitude. “Thanks to TESDA and DSWD… I am now prepared to face challenges… If I will be given a chance to establish my own business, I am pretty sure that I will succeed because I am already equipped with knowledge, skills and right attitude… Thanks again to C4TP,” Buctuanon said. Another recipient, Denzel Placer of John Bosco College in Bislig City said the Certificate of Training Completion she received in the Housekeeping as well as the knowledge and skills she acquired during the training will serve as her passport to acquire job in the domestic and international scene. She also expressed her gratefulness to the national government thru TESDA and DSWD for coming up with this program. “This training certificate that I am holding now as well as the knowledge and skills I acquired during my training will be my passport to acquire job whether in the domestic or international scene. For this, I am grateful to the national government through TESDA and DSWD,” Placer said. The two culmination programs in Surigao del Sur are another successful undertakings of TESDA through Sec. Joel Villanueva and the DSWD through Sec. Corazon “Dinky” Soliman in its quest to serve the Filipino people by providing free technical-vocational education. (RER, TESDA-Caraga)

thank all of you from the bottom of our hearts for your partnerships that we have been privileged to have. Over the years in the course of our work, we have continued to forge new partnerships, even as we nurtured and sustained old ones, in the firm belief that with more partners results a mutually beneficial arrangements for both of us and for the customers that we serve.

I guess it’s true what they say that when more people work together to achieve something good with the right intentions, the heavens conspire to bless and reward it.

With what you have done, it’s time now for us to return the favor. Through this simple ceremony, we pay tribute to all of you, our multitude of partners and our fellow TESDAns who have remained loyal to the cause of TVET.

To our partners, we know we couldn’t thank you enough. From all of us in Team TESDA-Caraga, please accept our heartfelt appreciation for your continuing partnership with us for our shared meaning and purpose: the development of our Filipino skilled workers!

And to my fellow TESDAns, today’s anniversary affords us the time to reflect on where TESDA have come from, what it has become, what we have shared together, and the future that holds for all of us. Let’s continue to keep the faith, with our national leadership, with our mandate and with the responsibilities that we all have sworn to bear.

We certainly have done a job over the years, but more needs to be done. We also deserve our share of the collective pat on our backs.

Thank you!

FLORENCIO F. SUNICO JR., DPA Regional Director TESDA-Caraga

RD’s Message... from page 3...


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