BALER, Aurora (PIA) — Residents in Aurora are gaining stronger employment opportunities as the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) expands enterprise-based training that combines technical education with actual industry experience.
The initiative supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen enterprise-based training programs that bridge workforce skill gaps and align technical education with industry demands.
TESDA Aurora Supervising TESD Specialist Jerome Lopez said the program allows trainees to learn within partner companies across the province, giving them direct exposure to workplace standards, technical operations, and industry practices while preparing them for future employment.
“Through enterprise-based training, in partnership with the Aurora Electric Cooperative (AURELCO), TESDA has opened additional opportunities for local residents to undergo technical training in an actual work setting,” Lopez said.
The program also provides assistance to trainees from remote municipalities.
“As part of the agreement between AURELCO and TESDA, participants may receive temporary accommodation and daily meal allowances to help ease transportation and living expenses during the training period. AURELCO previously implemented the initiative as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs,” Lopez added.
After completing the program, trainees will receive free assessment services that may help them obtain National Certification and improve their qualifications for local and overseas employment.
“These certificates are recognized not only in the country but are also accepted internationally, strengthening workers’ chances for overseas and local employment,” Lopez said.
Meanwhile, TESDA continues to accept applicants for the enterprise-based training program as part of its efforts to widen access to skills development opportunities in the province.
Lopez said enrollment remains open, and applicants unable to join the current batch will be accommodated in succeeding training cycles.
“We continue to accept enrollees for the program, and if they are unable to enter the current batch, we will line them up for the succeeding batches,” he said.
He also encouraged more industries and businesses, including those linked to global markets, to partner with TESDA to expand employment opportunities for Filipino workers.
“We are encouraging more companies and industries to partner with TESDA so we can train more workers based on actual industry needs and create more job opportunities for Aurora residents,” Lopez said.
In 2024, Marcos signed Republic Act No. 12063, officially known as the Enterprise-Based Education and Training Framework, which consolidated the country’s various enterprise-based programs into a single, cohesive system.
In Aurora, TESDA has already produced about 10,008 graduates in 2025 through its community-based, institution-based, and enterprise-based programs.
As TESDA strengthens partnerships with industries and expands enterprise-based learning opportunities, more Aurora residents are expected to gain industry-relevant skills and improved access to sustainable employment in the coming years. (CLJD/MAT, PIA Region 3-Aurora)
