“I would like to give my instruction to TESDA–Kalinga….maglagay na lang tayo ng trainers na mismong galing dito” - Deputy Dir. Villanueva III during inauguration of P4.2M gymnasium

Tabuk City, Kalinga – TESDA Deputy Director General for TESD Operations Vidal Villanueva III urged the provincial office to establish a system for recognizing local trainers and to prioritize homegrown talent instead of bringing in trainers from outside.

“I would like to give my instruction to the provincial office of TESDA–Kalinga to come up with recognition of trainers dito. Huwag na sana magbitbit ng trainers dito; maglagay na lang tayo ng trainers na mismong galing dito. So let’s also bring the training kung saan sila,” he said.

Villanueva’s statement came during the inauguration of the  approximately P4.2-million gymnasium and multi-purpose facility on April 14 at the TESDA office in Bulanao, marking a step toward expanding skills training across the province, with plans to increase the number of trainers and introduce additional livelihood and technology-driven programs.

The director emphasized that TESDA has moved beyond traditional courses such as manicure-pedicure and haircutting, adding that the agency will also consider Congresswoman Caroline Agyao’s request to provide livelihood programs for iKalinga women.

During the event, DPWH–Lower Kalinga District Engineer Ruby Uyam shared that the project was funded under the 2025 national budget, implemented by the DPWH–Lower Kalinga District Engineering Office (LKDEO), and constructed by APS Builders.

“This project was implemented by the DPWH–LKDEO and funded with an amount of approximately P4.2 million. It involves the construction of a one-storey facility designed to support various training, functional uses, and institutional activities,” she said.

The project aims to provide a durable and functional facility that ensures safety and reliability for future use. According to Uyam, additional funding is expected in 2027 to further improve the building.

With the inauguration of the facility, TESDA–Kalinga is expected to strengthen its training programs and expand access to skills development across the province, better preparing iKalingas for employment opportunities.