The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) announced on Tuesday, April 11 that it aims to train around 2,000 fisherfolk in the municipalities of Mindoro which were affected by the recent oil spill.
In coordination with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), TESDA said that it eyes to reskill and upskill a total of 2,900 residents in the municipalities of Naujan, Pola, Pinamalayan, Gloria, Bansud, Bongabong, Roxas, Mansalay, and Bulalacao in Oriental Mindoro.
The agency mentioned that they will undergo various training programs to provide them with alternative livelihood opportunities.
These training programs include: Oil Spill Response Training; Meat and Fish Processing; Bread Making; Hog Raising; Dressmaking; Service Motorcycle Small Engine System; Small Engine Repair; Pastry Making; and Sugar Concentration, among others.
TESDA Director General Danilo P. Cruz assured that the agency is ready to provide assistance in terms of skills training and livelihood programs to the residents of areas affected by the oil spill.
He also noted that these training programs shall help the beneficiaries find permanent employment.
“Hindi lang temporary employment ang ibinibigay ng DOLE, may component ‘yan na training. Bago ang temporary employment, kailangan ma-train din ang ating mga kababayan sapagkat after ng temporary employment, kailangan nilang magkaroon ng permanenteng trabaho.” Cruz said.
The Competency-based Curriculum (CBC) on Oil Spill Response Training was developed by the Simeon Suan Vocational and Technical College (SSVTC) in Bansud, Oriental Mindoro.
It can be recalled that TESDA has been assisting residents of communities affected by various crises brought on by natural calamities, disasters, and any other untoward incidents.
“TESDA is here to provide relevant training programs as part of the collective action to support the upskilling and reskilling of displaced workers areas and ensure the well-being of all affected Filipinos,” the TESDA Chief said.