BALER, Aurora (PIA) — The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) conducted a three-day community-based food processing training to enhance livelihood opportunities in remote upland barangays in Aurora.
A total of 43 participants from farmers’ groups and people’s organizations in the far-flung barangays of Galintuja, Decoliat, and San Juan in Maria Aurora took part in the training.
TESDA Provincial Director Nomer Pascual said the initiative aligns with the agency’s mission to empower communities through accessible and practical technical-vocational education.
Through this activity, participants gained valuable knowledge and hands-on experience in food processing, helping them become more capable and self-sufficient,” Pascual said.
The sessions included the preparation of longganisa, tocino, and smoked tilapia, making use of the communities’ abundant tilapia harvest.
Trainers also equipped participants with essential knowledge in food safety, quality control, and basic entrepreneurial skills.
“Programs like this help build a skilled, inclusive workforce, enabling individuals to access better opportunities and achieve economic independence,” Pascual added.
The training is part of TESDA’s 8-point agenda under “TESDA BEST,” which promotes inclusive and relevant programs to strengthen rural economic resilience.
By equipping residents with practical skills, TESDA continues to foster livelihood growth and support long-term peace and development in Aurora. (CLJD/MAT, PIA Region 3-Aurora)
