Local jewelry entrepreneurs get huge boost

Micro-financial services giant Cebuana Lhuillier, in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Thames International, has completed the inaugural training batch of its enterprise-based jewelry retail program aimed at professionalizing local jewelry sellers.

The "TESDA Jewelry Sellers (Alajera) Level II" initiative, developed by Cebuana Lhuillier’s Retail Business Group, combines formal jewelry appraisal and testing with entrepreneurship, digital marketing, and financial literacy instruction.

Participants who meet competency standards during the program are eligible to earn a TESDA National Certification, providing formal credentials to independent jewelry merchants, locally known as alajeras.

"This initiative reflects our belief that jewelry sellers are not just traders but entrepreneurs who deserve access to the skills and knowledge that will help them grow," Jean Henri Lhuillier, president and chief executive officer of Cebuana Lhuillier said. "By combining TESDA certification with business and professional training, we are helping build a stronger and more trusted Alajera network."

The inaugural session was held at the Cebuana Lhuillier Academy in Antipolo. All available slots were filled within a single day of registration opening, according to company officials.

Under the partnership, TESDA oversees the technical assessment pathway, while Thames International provides business development modules. Industry knowledge regarding precious metals and gemstones is provided by Cebuana Lhuillier and retail brand Just Jewels.

"By integrating jewelry retail practices with entrepreneurship and digital marketing, we are preparing Alajeras to succeed in today's competitive environment," said Rob Afzelius, Cebuana Lhuillier first vice president and Retail Business Group head.

Following strong demand for the initial cohort, Cebuana Lhuillier announced plans to expand the training program into recurring batches for qualified applicants.