The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority launched "TESDA sa Barangay” in Sarangani on April 12, sealing it with a memorandum of understanding signed by TESDA Provincial Director Alfredo Panuela Jr. and Gov. Rogelio Pacquiao. The program aims to provide people access to in-demand skills training as well as provide the technical vocational education and training graduates with the necessary linkage to prospective employment. (Photo courtesy of Sarangani Provincial Information Office)
GENERAL SANTOS CITY (PIA) -- Sarangani residents have welcomed the skills offerings of “TESDA sa Barangay” as they explore a brighter future with its launch in the province.
“TESDA sa Barangay” aims to empower communities by equipping residents with practical skills and fostering economic growth at the grassroots level.
The program, which was launched on April 12 through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by TESDA Provincial Director Alfredo Panuela Jr. and Gov. Rogelio Pacquiao, is expected to bring technical vocational education and training (TVET) directly to the people in the barangays.
Panuela said the “localized approach” ensures residents, including holders of National Certificates (NC I and II), have access to in-demand skills training, thereby producing a more skilled workforce and a thriving local economy.
Pacquiao emphasized the program's potential to transform lives, stating that “TESDA sa Barangay offers a direct path for the ‘Sarangans (residents of Sarangani)’ to gain valuable skills and build a brighter future.”
He also highlighted the program's ability to go beyond equipping residents with just technical skills; it also connects graduates with potential employers.
“The program also seeks to provide employment opportunities for certificate holders, such as through job linkages, network services, job fairs, employment programs, and livelihood assistance,” the governor said in a statement shared on his social media account.
Gov. Rogelio Pacquiao expressed confidence that "TESDA sa Barangay" can transform the lives of his constituents, especially the younger generations, to build the right foundation for a good future for themselves. Beside him are Vice Gov. Elmer De Peralta and Malapatan Mayor Salway Sumbo Jr. (Photo courtesy of Sarangani Provincial Information Office)
According to Pacquiao, TESDA's program and collaborative spirit align perfectly with his ongoing efforts to empower communities through regular consultative meetings with the province’s 142 barangay leaders.
“Mapasalamaton kita sa TESDA Region XII sa ilahang inisyatiba, nga dakong tabang aron mapakusgan pa nato ang educational ug livelihood programs alang sa mga Sarangan,” he expressed.
[We are grateful to TESDA in Region XII for their initiative, which greatly helps strengthen our educational and livelihood programs for the people of Sarangani.]
The MOU signing at the Greenleaf Hotel in General Santos City was also a testament to the widespread support for the initiative, Pacquiao noted.
During the event, Vice Gov. Elmer De Peralta, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan members, and municipal mayors, including the local leaders, also showed their support, pledging their commitment to ensuring the program's success in the province.
Both TESDA and the provincial government hoped to unlock the full potential of Sarangani's residents, particularly the youth, through cooperation and teamwork in the implementation of the “TESDA sa Barangay.” (HJPF - PIA SarGen)
