Ifugao – The Municipality of Asipulo marked a significant milestone in community development on January 13, 2026, as it hosted a joint graduation ceremony for several technical-vocational programs, headlined by the Produce Organic Concoctions and Extracts (POCE) with Mushroom Production course. Held at the LGU Asipulo Gymnasium, the event was a collaborative triumph organized by the Cordillera State Institute of Technical Education (CSITE) Ifugao, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Ifugao Provincial Office, and the Local Government Unit of Asipulo. This strategic initiative was designed to equip local residents with sustainable agricultural skills, leading to Organic Agriculture Production (OAP) NC II competencies and fostering a culture of self-sufficiency within the province.

The ceremony gained additional prestige by being integrated into the celebration of LGU Asipulo’s 34th Founding Anniversary. The program commenced with a presentation of graduates by the Community Training and Employment Coordinator (CTEC), Mr. Arnold G. Guyguyon, who highlighted the diversity of the graduating class. The event served as a collective commencement for six batches across three disciplines: Driving, Bread and Pastry Production, and the POCE program. TESDA Provincial Director, Engr. Victor P. Brioso, officially confirmed the graduates and delivered an inspiring address, urging the new tech-voc scholars to apply their lifelong learning to improve their economic standing and contribute to the local economy.

Support for the graduates was echoed by the Local Chief Executive , Mayor Archie Quindo, who commended the proactive nature of the local CTEC, noting that Asipulo currently leads the province in training requests from TESDA. In his keynote, Mayor Quindo emphasized that true progress is found in human capital and the “capacitation” of the community through skills, rather than just physical infrastructure. The POCE program alone produced 46 successful graduates, predominantly women, and included two special clients, ensuring inclusive growth. The day concluded with the awarding of certificates and a photo session, symbolizing a strengthened partnership between the LGU and TESDA in driving sustainable livelihood opportunities.