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Prime Infra Foundation and WawaJVCo Inc. launched an annual livelihood program for their host barangay communities and the Dumagat Remontado Indigenous Peoples of Antipolo and Montalban, Rizal, with 30 initial beneficiaries to receive heavy equipment operations training and gain skills for future employment.

The annual livelihood program is in collaboration with the Rizal Provincial Government, and the skills training will be facilitated by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in partnership with the Philippine Industrial Equipment Technical Institute, Inc. (PIETI).

Representing Rizal Governor Rebecca “Nini” Ynares during the launch held March 10, Vice Governor Reynaldo San Juan Jr. recognized the “very noble and worthy endeavor” of “empowering our kababayans especially the marginalized sector of our society.”

“The provincial government fully supports this program that empowers the marginalized sector, empowers the IPs through skills training. This is the real meaning of inclusive growth,” he said.

WawaJVCo President Melvin John Tan said the annual livelihood program demonstrates the company’s commitment to its host communities.

“Naisatupad natin ang isa sa mga pangarap namin sa WawaJVCo na bigyan ng maayos na oportunidad ang ating mga kababayan lalo na sa ating mga host communities,” said Tan.

WawaJVCo is the developer of the Wawa Bulk Water Supply Project in Rizal, which will supply at least 518 million liters of raw water per day once completed. Phase 1 or the Tayabasan Weir has been operational since October 2022.

For his part, TESDA Calabarzon Regional Director Toni June Tamayo expressed hope that the skills training will serve as an inspiration to the IP community.

“Itong sinimulan ninyo ay malaking inspirasyon sa ating mga katribo so that marinig din nila ang sinasabi ng pamahalaan and in this case, it’s TESDA…Our presence here today is to assure you that the national government is here to support you,” said Tamayo.

The program launch held at the Rizal Provincial Capitol was also attended by TESDA Rizal Provincial Director Ben-Hur Baniqued, Prime Infra Foundation Executive Director Dave Jesus Devilles, PIETI Assessment Center Manager Frances Lim, Antipolo IPs Rapu Ernesto Doroteo and Chairman of the Board of the Montalban Indigenous People Office Westico San Jose.

The trainees will be granted National Certificates (NC) II upon graduation from the four-week heavy equipment operator course and assessment.