P50-M fund expands TESDA’s mobile training lab project

MANILA, Philippines - Residents of the poorest provinces will now have easier access to affordable technical vocational training as the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) launched the Mobile Training Laboratories (MTL) project.

The MTL aims to equip people in low-income provinces with relevant technical skills and practical know-how on starting small businesses. This is part of the government’s efforts to develop and deliver a community-based training platform for the underserved sectors of society.

PAGCOR formalized its support to the MTL by signing a memorandum of agreement with TESDA on Jan. 6.  The state-run gaming firm gave P50 million to fund the first phase of the project with TESDA as implementor.

PAGCOR chairman and CEO Cristino Naguiat Jr. said the agency once again embarked on a partnership with TESDA because it believes that developing skills in poor and remote communities will encourage economic development and sustainability in these areas.

“Training and education can alleviate the plight of impoverished sectors. Unfortunately, many Filipinos in far-flung communities remain poor because they do not have the skills and knowledge necessary to get themselves employed. Through this MTL project, we hope PAGCOR can empower the local communities and their residents so they can contribute to the progress of their respective areas,” Naguiat said.

TESDA secretary Joel Villanueva said its mobile training facility is the most effective way of providing training access to Filipinos.

“When President Aquino talks about inclusive growth, it is important that it trickles down to communities. We thank PAGCOR for this opportunity, for enabling TESDA to bring these programs to the doorstep of our people,” said.

According to Villanueva there are many areas without colleges and technical vocational schools.

“Imagine the opportunity for PAGCOR and TESDA to bring technical vocational courses to these communities. With this kind of program, we can assure them that they will be able to stand on their own feet. They will be given world-class training,” Villanueva said.

TESDA is expecting to have 23,100 graduates per year through the implementation of the MTL project.

“We thank PAGCOR for stepping up and giving us the opportunity to promote this program. The access to education and technology that will be given to our countrymen will yield a better future for the next generation,” Villanueva said.

Unlike other government sponsored training programs, the MTL makes use of mobile training facilities that can easily be transported from one place to another.

The project will initially be implemented in the 10 poorest provinces: Apayao, Masbate, Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Zamboanga del Norte, Camiguin, Northern Cotabato, Saranggani, Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao.