CAPIZ (PIA) — A group of dedicated individuals in Capiz is inspiring women through knowledge and skills at the grassroots level.
This year marks the first anniversary of partnership between the Commission on Elections and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Dumalag Vocational Technical School (DVTS) in offering hands-on training on bread baking, and making rellenong bangus and embutido.
Panay town COMELEC election officer and Capiz Association of Government Public Information Officer (CAGPIO) president Ruthche Calixterio said that the training program is designed specifically for women, aligning with the celebration of National Women’s Month.
“This is not only about empowering women, but para man sa sustainability sa ila pangabuhi,” Calixterio said, adding that last year, other participants also learned donut cooking, table skirting, and flower arrangements.
(This is not only about empowering women but also ensuring the sustainability of their livelihood.)
She further emphasized that after doing this program, she has seen significant improvements among some participants, as some have their businesses now.
TESDA-DVTS information officer Wie Ann Fajardo said that this year, 62 participants from Barangays Tico and Magubilan in Panay town will receive TESDA training certificates, which they can use to apply for related jobs.
For the women who participated in the training, it goes beyond learning recipes but it is about giving them a possible livelihood.
Shirley Golbiogo from Brgy. Magubilan, expressed her gratitude to COMELEC and TESDA-DVTS.
“Daw nami pang negosyo. Kung ma-improve namon ini, pwede kami makahimo sang amon nga pagkaon para mabenta namon, makabulig kami sa pamilya,” she added.
(It seems like a good business opportunity. If we improve our skills, we can make our food to sell and support our family.)
With a grandchild in school and a household weekly budget of P2,000, she hopes that the skills she gained may help ease their financial struggles.
Similarly, Floreta Albaladejo of Brgy. Tico sees the training as a stepping stone to expand her homemade delicacies venture to help support her family.
“Amo na ang na namian gid ako nga ginimbitahan nila ako diri kay sa subong pwede ko na madugang ang pandesal sa akon ginalibod sa barangay,” she noted.
(That is why I am really glad that they have invited me here. Now I can add pandesal to the food I sell in our barangay.)
Through TESDA training, the participants are not just learning new skills, but laying the foundation for a more sustainable and empowered future for themselves and those around them.
As these women continue to grow, they inspire others around them, proving that when women uplift women, the entire society benefits. (AGP/PLF/PIA Capiz)
