The Aboitiz-run Therma Visayas Inc. or TVI, which operates AboitizPower's Toledo City power plant, recently spearheaded the launch of "Project T3," which stands for 'TechVoc, 'TESDA,' 'Training', a community skills training program aims to address unemployment in TVI's host communities.

TVI said Project T3 will provide technical vocational training in NC-II Shielded Metal Arc Welding or SMAW and NC-II Pipefitting plus NC-II Bread and Pastry Production in connection with the Community Bakery project.

Trainees had been selected from residents of TVI's impact communities in particular Barangays Bato and Cabitoonan in Toledo City.

TVI also sponsored the assessment fees for NC-II certifications. These initiatives ensure that trainees not only have access to comprehensive training and support but also highlight their commitment to creating job-ready individuals.

"Toledo City, an industrial hub, needs a skilled workforce. The graduates of this skills training course would be "job-ready," said TVI Facility Head Noel Cabahug.

"It is the objective of Project T3 to increase the hiring potential of the participants so that they can contribute immediately to a more vibrant Toledo economy."

Toledo City Mayor Marjorie "Joie" Perales commended the initiative even as she cited TVI's earlier contributions to Toledo including various health centers, crop production enhancement projects, financial assistance to indigent students, and COVID-19 support and disaster relief.

"Our profound thanks to TVI and the Aboitiz Foundation, TESDA, and CTU. The T3 program is very relevant and timely indeed, as it directly supports and promotes the economy of Toledo City as a vital cog in the growth of Cebu and Central Visayas," said Mayor Perales.

A Virtuous Cycle

A collaboration with the Aboitiz Foundation, TESDA, and the Cebu Technological University Pinamungajan, the "T3" initiative will ensure quality technical training and workshops for 100 beneficiaries in its launch phase.

The T3 training program banks on practical training and current industry trends making it highly relevant and attuned to market requirements towards gainful employment.

Leading the efforts to provide industry-standard training in various skills such as welding, scaffolding, and commercial baked goods production is project partner Engr. Redjie Arcadio, CTU Campus Director.

"These skills are actually in demand and thus highly marketable. Our end goal is gainful permanent employment for our T3 program participants. Thus, much consideration has gone into identifying and developing skills training programs that supply the human resources needs of the market and industry," said Arcadio.

"We have high hopes for "Project T3′ because of the virtuous cycle it creates – with every progress the program achieves, the greater sustainability we promote in terms of the increased living standards and the economy of Toledo," Cabahug added.

Operating a state-of-the-art power plant certified in five ISO standards — Quality Management, Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Management, Asset Management, and Business Continuity Management — Therma Visayas Inc., is focused on creating a positive impact in its host communities.

Its 340-megawatt baseload power plant in Barangay Bato, Toledo City plays a primary role in providing electricity to the region, supporting Cebu's rapid economic growth.