As a significant step towards enhancing the skills and capabilities of Davao Oriental residents, the Provincial Government under the people-centered leadership of Governor Niño Uy signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), represented by TESDA Regional Director Ashary Banto and TESDA Provincial Director Richard Amparo, on July 11, 2024, at the Grand Convention, Provincial Capitol, Central Mati City.

The agreement supports collaboration with various government agencies and organizations and acknowledges the active participation of stakeholders in technical education and skills development, ensuring the effective and efficient delivery of TVET (Technical-Vocational Education and Training) programs.

The agreement also focuses on identifying skills gaps and the need to upgrade the competencies of workers in agriculture, construction, and other priority sectors based on industry standards.

During the ceremony, Governor Uy expressed his strong support and continued active role in enhancing workforce development and skills training within the province’s operations.

“I am happy that this has come into reality to formalize our partnership and cooperation. We can now strengthen our resources, capability training, and economic upliftment. I am truly happy today that we have realized this, and I hope it will expand to other sectors and industries, because this can create a significant impact for our people. Our efforts would not be successful without the partnership of TESDA and other stakeholders,” Governor Uy stated.

The Provincial Government is eager to support the advancement of TESDA’s Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) initiatives and to establish a sustainable collaborative alliance for the development and implementation of programs in the construction sector.

One of the highlights of the ceremony was the announcement of four delegates who will represent the province in the upcoming Philippine National Skills Competition on August 19–23, 2024 at the World Trade Center:

• Timmy Mandabon – Cabinet Making (Evaristo Moralizon)
• Alexis Joseph Anuta – Plumbing and Heating (DOPI)
• Kristine C. Wenceslao – Bakery (DOPI)
• Shela Mae Bantilan – Fashion Technology (Sigaboy AVHS)

TESDA Regional Director Banto also expressed gratitude to Governor Uy, recognizing Davao Oriental as one of the few provinces where TESDA is a member of the Provincial Local School Board. He further committed to strengthening policies, expanding technical and vocational infrastructure, and promoting good governance in TVET.

By Nelton Abing | Photos by Redd Bayron