THE TECHNICAL Education and Skills Development Authority in SOCCSKSARGEN is giving out skills training to indigenous people in Sarangani province through the national government’s convergence programs.

Rafael Abrogar II, director of TESDA in Region 12, said the agency is currently working with various stakeholders to expand the rollout of its training programs in poor IP communities.

“Among the target recipients are residents of Sitio Sulop, Barangay San Juan in Malungon town, which is considered as among the poorest IP communities in the province,” Abrogar said.

“The village was visited by various government and private agencies last week for an outreach and community pantry activity,” he added.

During the visit, Abrogar said personnel from TESDA-12 assessed the situation and the needs of the residents.

“Some 59 Blaan households benefited from the program, receiving food packs, P3,000 cash assistance each, five solar panels, 200 pairs of slippers, basketballs, assorted candies, chocolates, and biscuits,” he said.

Abrogar noted the initiatives are intended to make IP residents of the village become more productive.

“We, in TESDA, are always willing to extend our help by providing skills and agricultural training,” he said.