Bontoc, Mountain Province — The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Mountain Province spearheaded the World Café of Opportunities (WCO) on August 18, 2025, bringing together national line agencies, local and overseas employers, and training institutions in a one-day activity aimed at expanding access to training and employment opportunities.

As a result of this significant event, 214 individuals enrolled in various qualifications, 78 jobseekers applied in different job vacancies, and 167 individuals availed services from partner line agencies. Additionally, it led to three (3) jobseekers hired on the spot (HOTS), underscoring the event’s goal of connecting skills training with actual employment.

TESDA-Mountain Province Provincial Director Felixberto B. Matute, Jr. emphasized that the WCO is a concrete platform where skills development meets labor market demand. He then thanked the participating agencies and employers for their strong support, noting that partnerships are crucial in sustaining the province’s workforce development efforts.

Meanwhile, DOLE-MP Provincial Head George G. Lubin, Jr. congratulated TESDA on the occasion of its 31st anniversary. He lauded the agency for initiating the WCO, stressing that such activities complement DOLE’s programs and give jobseekers better chances at employment. Lubin also urged participants to maximize the opportunities made available through the event.

Messages of support were also delivered on behalf of Congressman Maximo Y. Dalog, Jr. by Wabilyn Lomong-oy, and Governor Bonifacio C. Lacwasan, Jr. by Jocelyn Cullaling, both commending TESDA for creating venues where constituents can access services and opportunities.

Adding color to the program were skills demonstrations by trainees under Cookery NC II of Khai Academy, Inc., and Barista of MPSU-Bontoc Campus. Their finished products were put on display, while baked pastries prepared by TESDA CSITE-MP were distributed to participants. Meanwhile, MP Glam Beauty Lounge & Aesthetic Center, Inc., an accredited assessment center for Beauty Care qualifications, provided nail care and massage therapy services to clients.

The World Café of Opportunities reaffirmed TESDA’s role as a bridge between training and employment, ensuring that no skill goes to waste, that every enrollee and graduate are guided toward a future of productivity and self-reliance.