By Gabriela Baron
The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) announced Tuesday, April 11, that it is eyeing to reskill and upskill the fisherfolk in the municipalities of Oriental Mindoro that were affected by the recent oil spill.
In coordination with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), a total of 2,900 residents in the municipalities of of Naujan, Pola, Pinamalayan, Gloria, Bansud, Bongabong, Roxas, Mansalay, and Bulalacao in Oriental Mindoro will undergo various training programs to provide them with alternative livelihood opportunities.
According to TESDA, 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 Cruz assured 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.
Cruz also noted that these training programs will help the beneficiaries find permanent employment.
“Hindi lang temporary employment ang ibinibigay ng DOLE, may component ‘yan na training,” Cruz said.
“Bago ang temporary employment, kailangan ma-train din ang ating mga kababayan sapagkat after ng temporary employment, kailangan nilang magkaroon ng permanenteng trabaho,” he added. -ag
