Bong Go backs TESDA graduates in Zamboanga Sibugay

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go reaffirmed his commitment to skills development, employment, and sustainable livelihood opportunities as 50 trainees completed agricultural technical-vocational courses under the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) at BAC Jazz Farm in Barangay La Dicha, Malangas, Zamboanga Sibugay, on Friday, 23 October.

The graduation ceremony recognized trainees who completed programs designed to equip them with practical skills in agricultural production and poultry raising, opening opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship, and livelihood development.

The activity was spearheaded by Zamboanga Sibugay Board Member Boyet Yambao, who served as the program’s proponent and focal person.

Of the 50 graduates, 25 completed Agricultural Crops Production National Certificate II (NC II), while the other 25 finished Animal Production (Poultry-Chicken) NC II.

Go congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to apply their newly acquired skills to productive livelihood activities, improve their families’ economic circumstances, and contribute to their communities.

He emphasized the importance of technical and vocational education in helping Filipinos, particularly those from disadvantaged communities, develop practical competencies that can lead to employment and sustainable sources of income.

In agricultural communities, skills training can help improve farm productivity, support small-scale enterprises, and strengthen local food production. Go also recognized the contributions of farmers and other agricultural workers to the country’s food security, underscoring the need to expand economic opportunities in rural areas.

As part of the activity, Go’s office distributed assistance to the graduates, including food packs, ballpens, vitamins, shirts, basketballs, volleyballs, and keychains.

The assistance formed part of the senator’s continuing efforts to support Filipinos pursuing education, skills training, and livelihood opportunities.

Go has also pursued legislative measures aimed at expanding employment and livelihood support for disadvantaged sectors.

He filed Senate Bill No. 177, which seeks to institutionalize rural employment assistance through the proposed Rural Employment Assistance Program, associated with initiatives such as the government’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD).

He also filed Senate Bill No. 2247, or the proposed Sustainable Livelihood Program Act, which seeks to strengthen livelihood opportunities and economic assistance for disadvantaged Filipinos.

These measures reflect his advocacy for programs that help individuals develop marketable skills, access employment opportunities, and establish sustainable sources of income.

Go likewise acknowledged the efforts of Yambao, TESDA personnel, trainers, and other stakeholders in making technical-vocational training accessible to residents of Malangas and nearby communities.

He expressed hope that the graduates would continue honing their skills and use their training to build stable livelihoods, support agricultural production, and create better opportunities for their families.

“Patuloy kaming magseserbisyo sa inyo dahil bisyo ko ang magserbisyo at ako ay naniniwala na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo ‘yan sa Panginoon, serbisyo ‘yan kay Allah,” Go said.

“Mr. Malasakit” continues his compassionate service to Filipinos in need, Go reiterated his commitment to supporting initiatives that promote education, skills development, employment, and sustainable livelihood opportunities.