#GanapSaTESDA, In line with TESDA’s commitment to advancing the #CREATIVES in Northern Mindanao, a series of initiatives has officially commenced to champion, strengthen, and support the region’s vibrant creative sector.
Leading this initiative, Deputy Director General for Partnerships and Linkages DDG Nelly Nita Dillera visited the creative communities of Impasug-ong, Bukidnon, where she met with local artisans and cultural bearers whose craftsmanship reflects the rich heritage of the Higaonon people. The TESDA delegation was warmly welcomed by Mayor Mai Okinlay, whose vision of promoting nature, culture, and people continues to drive the municipality’s development agenda.
A key highlight of the visit was the awarding of the Certificate of TVET Program Registration (CTPR) to the Kalandang Weavers Association, marking an important milestone in empowering indigenous communities through quality technical education and skills development.
TESDA believes that sustainable development begins by creating opportunities where communities thrive. As Deputy Director General Dillera emphasized, “We aim to bring the market to the people, not the people to the market.” By equipping local artisans with industry-recognized skills, improving product quality, and strengthening market linkages, TESDA enables communities to generate livelihood while preserving their identity and traditions.
Beyond skills training, TESDA remains committed to helping uplift and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Higaonon communities in Mintapod and neighboring indigenous communities. Through strengthened partnerships in Enterprise-based Education and Training (EBET), the agency seeks to ensure that traditional weaving, craftsmanship, and cultural knowledge are sustained, celebrated, and transformed into opportunities for inclusive and sustainable economic growth for future generations.
