DPWH turns over training center to TESDA Surigao Sur
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, (PIA) — Marking a new chapter in Surigao del Sur’s drive toward skills development and employment opportunities, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 1st District Engineering Office, led by Engineer Ruel Bantugan, turned over the newly completed P19.7-million Provincial Training Center to the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Surigao del Sur.
The turnover ceremony, held on October 20 at the Government Center in Tandag City, was witnessed by 1st District Congressional Representative Romeo Momo Sr., and Provincial Administrator John Vincent C. Pimentel who represented Governor Johnny Pimentel.
Both officials underscored their unwavering support for the project, with the provincial government donating the land for the facility and Rep. Momo facilitating the allocation of national funds for its construction.
The completion of the modern training center marks the fulfillment of a long-envisioned goal to strengthen technical-vocational education and workforce development in Surigao del Sur. TESDA officials commended the structure’s durability and engineering excellence, as the facility stood firm despite recent seismic activities in the area, showing no visible cracks, a testament to DPWH’s commitment to building resilient and safe public infrastructures.
Partnership, shared vision
TESDA Caraga Assistant Regional Director and concurrent Provincial Director Romel Natad, in his acceptance message, expressed deep appreciation for the successful completion of Phase I of the Provincial Training Center. “On behalf of TESDA–Surigao del Sur Provincial Office, it is with deep gratitude that we formally accept this TESDA Building Provincial Office, a tangible symbol of partnership and shared commitment to empower our people through skills and education,” he said.
He also extended his gratitude to Rep. Momo for his vision and initiative that paved the way for the project’s realization, and to the provincial government of Surigao del Sur for providing the land, and to DPWH 1st DEO for the execution of the construction.
“This facility will serve not just as a building, but as a center of learning, innovation, and opportunity, a place where dreams are built and futures are shared,” Natad said.
He assured that TESDA will continue to uphold its mandate of delivering quality technical education and skills development programs that uplift communities and strengthen the province’s human resource potential.
Quality, commitment recognized
Meanwhile, Supervising TESDA Specialist Ma. Elena Toyco commended the DPWH 1st DEO team for completing the project with professionalism and dedication. “Maganda talaga ang ating building (The building is good). Many times it has been tested by earthquake, pero walang crack as you can see (you cannot see any crack),” Toyco said, highlighting the project’s structural integrity and quality workmanship.
The ceremonial ribbon-cutting marked another milestone for the province, symbolizing not only infrastructure progress but also the shared mission of government agencies to promote inclusive and sustainable development.
With the establishment of the new TESDA Provincial Training Center, more Surigaonons are expected to gain access to free, high-quality technical-vocational training that aligns with local industry demands and employment opportunities.
The facility will serve as a hub for skills training, innovation, and livelihood empowerment, preparing the province’s workforce to actively contribute to regional economic growth and nation-building.
As the collaboration effort among DPWH, TESDA, and the provincial government of Surigao del Sur continues, the turnover of the training center stands as a symbol of unity, resilience, and commitment to human capital development, a true investment in the future of every Surigaonon. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)
