“What challenges us most often brings out the best in us,” said Maria Reyna Trinidad Padernal, a TESDA-Bukidnon scholar who graduated from the Massage Therapy course.
At 65, Maria, a mother and grandmother from San Jose, Malaybalay City, used to spend her days at home while her husband worked to support the family.
“Sometimes, I would chat with friends after doing home chores. I do not work despite the struggles to make both ends meet,” she shared during TESDA’s first grand alumni homecoming, which unified over a thousand participants from the province’s 20 towns and two cities.
A New Beginning
Padernal’s journey to success was not easy. Driven to increase her family’s income, she enrolled in the Massage Therapy course at TESDA. Her perseverance paid off.
“The government’s support was instrumental in achieving my dream of owning a wellness center. The skills and knowledge I gained through TESDA empowered me to become an entrepreneur. This experience underscores the government’s commitment to uplifting lives, regardless of age,” she said.
Echoing Padernal’s success story, Engr. Adrian Ampong, TESDA provincial director for Bukidnon, emphasized the importance of technical and vocational education. Aligned with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision, TESDA is committed to expanding scholarship opportunities to empower more Filipinos.
Business Prosperity
Today, Padernal is a successful entrepreneur, owning and operating the San Rafael Wellness Massage Center in San Jose, Malaybalay City. Her business symbolizes resilience and hard work, offering wellness services to the community and job opportunities to others.
“I was so happy that at 65, I was allowed to enroll in TESDA as a scholar. I received a daily cash allowance and tool kits that helped me through my training,” she recalled, her voice filled with gratitude and pride.
After graduating in 2023, Padernal started a home-to-home service. But her daughter inspired her to start a massage clinic. In February 2024, she opened the wellness massage center.
A Symbol of Resilience
Padernal’s story is a testament to the life-changing power of education and skills development. Her journey from hardship to success serves as an inspiration.
To encourage others to follow in her footsteps, Padernal urges students and aspiring learners to take advantage of TESDA courses. Emphasizing lifelong learning, she highlights the potential for personal and professional growth.
Moreover, she extends her message to senior citizens, encouraging them to explore opportunities offered by TESDA. She believes that older individuals can significantly contribute to their households while becoming role models in their communities.
Ultimately, Padernal’s story is a light of hope, demonstrating that with determination and the right support, anyone can achieve their dreams. (BGE/PIA-10/Bukidnon)
