TESDA, BEPA AND LGUs EMPOWER COMMUNITIES THROUGH ELECTRICAL SKILLS TRAINING

TESDA Davao City District Office, along with the Provincial Training Center – Davao and Barangay Electricians Practitioners Administration (BEPA), launched a major initiative in Brgy. Baganihan, Marilog District, Davao City on July 22, 2024. The program’s goal is to empower residents and improve community self-sufficiency through Skills Training in Electrical Installation and Maintenance NC II.
 
Key figures from local government, technical education, and the power industry have joined forces in this collaborative effort. Among the attendees were City Councilor Alberto T. Ungab of the 3rd District of Davao City, Acting District Director Myrna C. Roa, Center Administrator Engr. Sammy S. Cameros, CTEC Focal Ivy Margate, and Hon. Arnold S. Angit, Barangay Captain of Brgy. Baganihan.
 
BEPA’s leadership, including Engr. Jonathan Medalla, Chairman and Supervisor at Davao Light and Power Company and Vice Chairman Engr. Charlo Deniega, brought industry expertise to the program. Their involvement suggested a curriculum aligned with current industry standards and practices.
 
The initiative targets aspiring electricians from three barangays: Baganihan, Datu Salumay, and Buda. By offering thorough training, the program aims to establish a group of certified barangay electricians. This approach guarantees the presence of skilled professionals in these communities and creates job opportunities for participants.
 
This program represents a forward-thinking approach to community development. By investing in local skills and human capital, it addresses immediate needs for electrical services while potentially stimulating economic growth in these barangays. This program can be a blueprint for similar initiatives elsewhere, showing how focused skills training can empower individuals and strengthen communities.
 
It will be important to track the effects of skills training on employment rates, community electrification projects, and overall electrical service quality in the target barangays. The success of this initiative could create opportunities for expanded training programs and enhanced collaboration between government, TESDA, and industry sectors in meeting community needs.

Releasing of Starter Toolkits to 40 STEP Scholars

Hon. Alberto T. Ungab, City Councilor of Davao City’s 3rd District, led the release of starter toolkits to forty (40) graduates of Bread and Pastry Production NC II under the Special Training for Employment Program (STEP) on behalf of his brother, Hon. Isidro T. Ungab, Davao City’s 3rd District Congressional Representative on March 7, 2024. The distribution occurred at two separate locations. Firstly, in Brgy. Malagos, Baguio District, where fifteen beneficiaries were covered. Hon. Maria Corazon S. Liong, Barangay Kagawad, warmly welcomed the guests and expressed support for her fellow graduates. Secondly, at the Provincial Training Center – Davao, where twenty-five beneficiaries from the Deca Homes Women's Association in Brgy. Tacunan, Tugbok District, Davao City, got their toolkits.

Every scholar received a toolkit that included a 45-liter Electric Oven and Electric Mixer with all the necessary attachments, which served as their essential equipment for their livelihood undertakings. Hon. Abet Ungab emphasized to the beneficiaries that their endeavors are aimed at securing the future of their families and children. He reiterated the commitment of Congressman Isidro T. Ungab's office to consistently support the STEP scholarship program, especially in providing entrepreneurial assistance to the women's sector.

The toolkit distribution was also attended by Felipe C. Hiquial Jr. – Technical Adviser for Barangays affairs, Jonathan D. Samillano – Supply Officer designate, Jessa Jessah E. Fuerzas – Admin Head Designate, and Rica Jean B. Gascon – Finance Head Designate.

The beneficiaries have expressed eagerness to utilize the skills they acquired in the training and have conveyed immense gratitude for the equipment. This has further motivated them to pursue baking and generate income from their passion.