A significant partnership aimed at empowering former combatants and military families through skills development was officially launched in Zamboanga del Norte this week.
Memorandum of Partnership Signed
The 97th Infantry Battalion (97IB) of the Philippine Army and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) formalized their collaboration with a Memorandum of Partnership Agreement (Mopa). The signing ceremony took place on Tuesday, December 23, at a resort located in the municipality of Piñan.
The core objective of this alliance is to deliver a comprehensive "Skills Training and Assessment" program. This initiative is specifically designed for identified beneficiaries within the province, marking a concrete step towards sustainable reintegration and support.
Target Beneficiaries and Program Goals
The program will be implemented through the Tesda Provincial Training Center (PTC) in Sindangan. It casts a wide net of support, focusing on three key groups:
- Former rebels seeking a new path.
- Active uniformed personnel and their dependents.
- Families of personnel who were Killed in Action (KIA) or Wounded in Action (WIA).
Beyond mere skills certification, the initiative has broader ambitions. It seeks to promote entrepreneurship and raise awareness about the various programs Tesda offers. Ultimately, it aims to develop a pool of skilled workers ready to meet the demands of different industries, thereby preparing them for gainful employment.
A Commitment to Sustainable Development
Lieutenant Colonel Jessie Bergonia, the commanding officer of the 97IB, underscored the partnership's vital role in building sustainable livelihoods and bolstering community development. He emphasized that empowering former rebels through education and practical skills training is a cornerstone of lasting peace and progress.
Bergonia also extended his gratitude to Tesda for its continued collaboration, stating that the Mopa exemplifies the shared commitment of both institutions to education, skills development, and the overall empowerment of the community.
The historic agreement was signed by Lt. Col. Jessie Bergonia for the 97IB and Engineer Allan Bacatan, the Regional Director for Tesda in the Zamboanga Peninsula.
