LUNA, Apayao – Apayao Lone District Representative Eleanor C. Bulut-Begtang reaffirmed her support to the vocational training programs in the province, addressing more than 400 graduates during the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) mass graduation ceremony on March 13, at the ECBJr. Evacuation Center and Multipurpose Gym (Aliwa) in Luna.
Calling the graduates an inspiration behind continued investments in skills training, the lawmaker highlighted the important role of technical and vocational education in creating livelihood opportunities and addressing employment gaps in the province.
“Inspirasyon kayo nga ituloy mi daytoy nga programa. Inspirasyon kayo tapno nayunan mi pay dagitoy naduma-duma nga klase iti programa,” she said.
The lady legislator also assured the graduates that their newly acquired skills would serve as prized tools for self-sufficiency. “I know the hardship in finding a job when you finish these trainings, but it will help you in your livelihood. Continue and improve on what you learned during your trainings,” she urged.
Rep. Bulut-Begtang announced that funding for TESDA-Apayao remains a top priority, with her office allocating PhP5 million to sustain and expand training programs this year. Additional support also came from House Speaker Ferdinand G. Romualdez and Congress representative Sandro Marcos, who contributed PhP11 million and PhP7 million, respectively. She also acknowledged the contributions of the Provincial Government, and underscored the collective efforts to support TESDA’s reach in the province.
Knowing the increasing call for specialized training, she cited the growing number of agriculture graduates from Apayao State College who continue to pursue TESDA certifications to refine their expertise. “You are more than just vocational graduates, you are a driving force for progress in Apayao. You are our partners in building a brighter future for our province. Let us recruit more trainees and together, we can make Apayao even stronger,” she said.
She likewise committed to working with various agencies to extend additional assistance to the graduates. Among the planned interventions are cash aid, livelihood programs, and business development support to help them maximize their skills and transition into sustainable employment.
“As your Congresswoman, I have always been committed to supporting this program. My office has consistently provided funding, and we will continue to do so. We want to ensure that you can put your training to good use and build a successful livelihood,” she added. By Krizza Joy Castillo
