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Twenty-five trainees from Indigenous Peoples (IP) and non-IP communities began a skills development training on Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) NC I, through the continuing corporate social responsibility efforts of Prime Infra Foundation and WawaJVCo. 

The training program officially kicked off on June 3, 2025, during a ceremonial launch held at the Rizal Provincial Capitol in Antipolo City. Conducted in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and iTech Technical Vocational Institute Corporation, the program focuses on developing foundational welding skills, understanding the safe use of welding equipment, and reading technical drawings. 

The 42-day training offers participants the opportunity to earn a TESDA National Certificate (NC I) upon successful completion, a credential recognized across various industries that opens doors to employment. Participants will receive food and transportation allowances throughout the program, funded by Prime Infra Foundation and WawaJVCo. 

“This marks the third in a series of technical training programs we’ve implemented for our communities—starting with heavy machinery operation, then baking and pastry-making, and now welding,” said Atty. Jose Dagala, Community Affairs Manager of Prime Infra. “We have been running this program for the past three years, and we are hoping for the CSR program to train more locals from our host communities to gain technical skills.” 

Rizal Vice Governor Reynaldo H. San Juan, Jr., represented by Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator Architect Herbert V. Jose, expressed strong support for the program: “Wag ninyong hayaan masayang ang pagkakataon na binibigay sa inyo, alam natin na yan mga technical training, ‘yan ay ino-offer sa inyo ng libre para sa inyo. Hindi makukuha ng kahit na sino yung natutunan ninyo sa training na ito. I’d like to thank everyone here for giving the opportunities sa mga kabataang ito.” 

Also present during the launch were Dr. Maria Roque, Provincial Director of TESDA-Rizal, and Mr. Adriano R. San Pedro, President of iTech Technical and Vocational Institute, who both emphasized the value of industry-relevant skills in today’s job market.  

For the trainees, the program represents both hope and opportunity. 

Emil Bacruya, 24, who has worked as a construction laborer for three years, views this training as a stepping stone toward advancing to NC II certification and eventually pursuing employment abroad. 

“After po nito kukuha po ako ng NCII, magta-trabaho ako para kumuha ng experience at pangarap ko pong mag abroad.” 

Archie Roslin, an 18-year-old Dumagat-Remontado youth, embraces the welding training as a vital opportunity for personal growth and family support. “Grab the opportunity, lalo na sa panahon ngyon mataaas ang demand ng welding, ay malaking opportunity yun para sa sarili ko at para mas maaga ko matulungan yung pamilya ko. Malaking bagay po ang training na ito, marami akong madidiscover na bagay na pwede at kaya ko gawin.” 

Reflecting on his experience, he expresses deep gratitude for the support extended by Prime Infra and WawaJVCo, recognizing the training as a bridge toward a brighter future. 

“Sa mga tumutulong po sa amin kagaya naming mga IP, lalo na sa Prime Infra at WawaJVCo, maraming maraming salamat sa pagbibigay ng daan or tulay para mas malayo pa ang aming marating,” he said.  

Graduates who pass the assessment may be considered for inclusion in the manpower pool for Prime Infra’s ongoing and future projects.