P10-M training center to rise in Apayao

TESDA - apayao has now trained two batches of welders numbering to 48, who are now being worked out for jobs at a ship building company in Subic.

LUNA, Apayao - Responding to the needs of this fast developing province, the local government of Apayao earmarked P10M this year to finance the construction of a training center in this municipality.

TESDA-CAR Assistant Regional Director Emmanuel Dabalos said Gov. Elias Bulut, Sr. was touched by the inconvenience of his people who need to go to Cagayan and Baguio City for skills trainings.

Dabalos said after their office submitted the memorandum of Agreement (MOA), Gov. Bulut approved the project and immediately released P2.5M for its initial works.

TESDA-Apayao has closely worked with the local government in providing skills to the people of the province under its Sheet Metal Arch Welding (SMAW) program, where trainees undergo 1-month training on metal welding.

Dabalos said their office has now trained two batches of welders numbering to 48, who are now being worked out for jobs at a ship building company in Subic.

The training provided by TESDA even qualifies trainees to work overseas, as two of its trainees now work as welders in Saudi Arabia, Dabalos said.

TESDA is aggressive on the SMAW as part of President Arroyo's Hunger Mitigation and Poverty Alleviation Program, which has sank in the priorities of this province.

Dabalos informed that the provincial government is shouldering allowances of trainees in going to Cagayan and Baguio City, to attend skills trainings.

Other skills provided by TESDA include care giving, butchering and barrista. This program is tied-up with the Anti-poverty Agenda of the local government of Apayao. (by L. Lopez - PIA Kalinga)