Timely training team-up

As Aboitiz Foundation partners with the Department of Education in providing solar electricity and Internet to some 300 off-grid schools nationwide to help enhance the quality of education, Aboitiz Foundation is also teaming up with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in training 500 women as virtual assistant (VA).

Aboitiz Foundation president Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar and TESDA director general Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez signed the memorandum of agreement on the implementation of the Virtual Assistant Training Program (VATP) to equip women with in-demand digital skills for remote work opportunities. Successful trainees under the VATP will acquire TESDA’s Virtual Assistant Services Level II certification.

“By equipping women with critical skills in emerging industries such as AI, data analytics, e-commerce and digital marketing, we’re not just helping them secure jobs. We are also empowering them to become leaders in the workplace and their communities,” Hontiveros- Malvar said during the MOA signing ceremony.

Benitez emphasized the timeliness and significance of the partnership, given the rising global demand for artificial intelligence and data annotation specialists.

“This initiative will bridge the gap between technical vocational education and industry needs, providing women in grassroots communities with real employment opportunities through remote work,” he said. “Through partnerships like this, we hope to empower more Filipinos with the skills to succeed in the digital economy,” the TESDA chief said.

The VATP is part of Elevate AIDA, the Aboitiz Foundation’s flagship program that aims to equip 300,000 women across the Philippines with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

By championing education, innovation, and workforce readiness, Aboitiz Foundation continues to drive sustainable and transformative change, ensuring that every Filipino — regardless of location or background — has access to opportunities for learning and growth.

Aside from Aboitiz Foundation, TESDA collaborates with other units of the Aboitiz Group like Pilmico Foods Corporation (Pilmico), and Aboitiz Foods company.

Pilmico has renewed its partnership with the TESDA to enhance the skills of local bakers and trainers. This collaboration focuses on improving the Bread and Pastry Production NC II program, supporting industry growth, and promoting sustainable employment across the country.

Since 2018, the partnership has empowered aspiring bakers through the Wooden Spoon Business Innovation Center and, more recently, the “Bake/Cook with Chef Webinar Series,” which brought training online during the pandemic. Aboitiz Foods first vice president William Paradies emphasized the company’s commitment to training and development, noting that with the right support, people can thrive.