PTC - DAVAO CULMINATES WOMEN'S MONTH THRU DURIAN SEEDS CHIPS PROCESSING

The Provincial Training Center – Davao successfully conducted the Culmination Activity of the Women’s Month Celebration on March 31, 2026, at Barangay Tacunan, Tugbok District, Davao City. The institution meaningfully carried out the activity by providing skills training in Pastry-Making and Durian Seeds Chips Processing, with the primary objective of enhancing the participants’ knowledge and competencies in food processing and entrepreneurship. This initiative created a valuable platform for women and community members to acquire practical, income-generating skills to support their livelihoods and promote economic empowerment.

The activity was made possible through a collaborative partnership with the City Agriculturist’s Office of Davao City, the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Barangay Tacunan, the Women’s Rural Improvement Club (RIC), and the Solo Parents Association of Tacunan. The strong coordination and shared commitment among these stakeholders contributed significantly to the seamless implementation and overall success of the training.

The program featured comprehensive, hands-on demonstrations and guided learning sessions facilitated by the invited resource persons, Ms. Fe G. Oguio, Acting Municipal Agriculturist Officer in Tugbok District, and Ms. Jemelyn L. Balili, Agriculturist Technician and MAFC Tugbok District Focal Person. They provided in-depth discussions and practical guidance on innovative processing of durian seeds into chips, emphasizing product quality, safety, and market potential.

Participants showed active involvement throughout the training, displaying enthusiasm and eagerness to learn. The activity not only enhanced their technical skills but also encouraged them to explore entrepreneurial opportunities utilizing locally available resources. Furthermore, it promoted sustainability and resourcefulness by transforming durian seeds—commonly regarded as waste—into a value-added product with economic potential.

Mr. Jonathan D. Samillano, GAD Focal Person and Vocational Instruction Supervisor of PTC - Davao, expressed his appreciation and satisfaction with the successful conduct of the activity. He underscored the importance of applying the acquired skills toward sustainable livelihood initiatives. He expressed optimism that the Women’s Rural Improvement Club (RIC) and the Solo Parents Association of Tacunan will venture into this promising business opportunity, particularly given the abundant availability of durian seeds in the locality.

The activity effectively achieved its objectives of empowering women and community members by equipping them with relevant, market-driven skills in food processing and entrepreneurship. It likewise strengthened inter-agency collaboration and reinforced the commitment to support similar community-based initiatives in the future.

Bridging Education and Vocational Training between PTC – Davao and Tacunan National High School

A meeting between representatives from the Provincial Training Center–Davao (PTC–Davao) and officials from Tacunan National High School (TNHS) in Barangay Tacunan, Tugbok District on July 23, 2024, marked an important milestone in improving educational outcomes. The inception of an Adopt-a-School Program occurred during this coordination meeting, aiming to strengthen the connection between academic and vocational education.

Personnel from both sides came together for the meeting. PTC–Davao was represented by Engr. Sammy S. Cameros, the Center Administrator, Jonathan D. Samillano, the Vocational Instruction Supervisor and CGAP Focal Niel Ven L. Bacalangco. The representatives from TNHS were Master Teacher I Cristina B. Florida, Brigada Coordinator and Teacher II Vincent G. Ultiano, and Teacher II Maria Rhea S. Dizon.

This initiative seeks to establish a mutually beneficial relationship between PTC–Davao and TNHS. The partnership aims to exchange expertise, enhance the skills of TNHS TVL track teachers, and provide training opportunities. This approach acknowledges the changing demands of education in a fast-paced job market, where technical and vocational skills are becoming more important.

The proposed Memorandum of Agreement (MOU) will solidify this partnership, establishing a foundation for a structured and lasting collaboration. This agreement could be a model for future partnerships, bringing about significant changes in the education sector of Davao City and surrounding areas.

The Adopt-a-School Program exemplifies a progressive approach to education. Merging academic and vocational training seeks to enhance students’ readiness for the demands of the modern workforce. This partnership provides TNHS teachers valuable professional development opportunities to enhance their teaching methods with practical, industry-relevant skills.

This program shows an increasing acknowledgment of the necessity for comprehensive, interconnected educational methods. Encouraging collaboration across different educational institutions paves the way for eradicating educational isolation and nurturing graduates with versatile expertise.