With the theme “20 Years of Transforming Lives, Shaping Futures,” the Regional Training Center – Korea Philippines Vocational Training Center (RTC-KPVTC) Davao commemorated its 20th founding anniversary on March 6-7 with a vibrant two-day celebration filled with reflection, competition, and community spirit.
The celebration began with a solemn thanksgiving Mass at the Mini-Theater, held a day after Ash Wednesday. Attended by trainees from all trade areas, administrative staff, and faculty, the Mass offered a moment of gratitude and reflection on the Training Center’s journey and impact over two decades.
Center Administrator Engr. Constantino B. Panes, Jr., Ed. D., welcomed attendees, followed by a keynote message from TESDA XI Regional Director Ramon Evan T. Ruiz, who highlighted RTC-KPVTC’s role in delivering quality technical education and developing a skilled workforce in the region. A special audio-visual presentation took viewers through key milestones in the institution’s history before the official opening of the celebration.
A major highlight of the festivities was the cooking contest, where 10 teams from various trade areas and administrative unit competed to prepare traditional Filipino dishes—Pinakbet, Ensaladang Talong, and Pancit Canton—within a two-hour time limit using pre-provided ingredients. Judges, including Engr. Panes and Director Ruiz, evaluated the entries based on taste, presentation, and teamwork. After the contest, participants shared their creations during a lively boodle fight, reinforcing unity across departments. Each trade area also received a free Humba meal to mark the occasion.
The celebration continued with a poster-making contest held at the library. Seven participants had two hours to visually interpret the anniversary theme through original artworks. Simultaneously, the booth design competition encouraged trainees to use recycled materials and creative concepts to build booths that represented their respective trade areas. Each group also introduced their ambassador and ambassadress, who explained the features of their booths and promoted their courses.
Despite a brief weather disruption, energy remained high during the traditional Pinoy games, including Sack Race, Skipping Rope, Tug of War, Catch the Dragon’s Tail, and Giant Volleyball. These games fostered camaraderie, school spirit, and friendly competition.
On the second day, trade area representatives showcased their skills and specialties, giving live demonstrations and promoting their programs. A talent show followed, featuring musical and performance acts by students from different fields. The event culminated with an awards ceremony, recognizing winners of the contests and competitions, and honoring the organizing teams for their efforts.
Although the Training Center’s official founding date is March 8, 2005, the anniversary celebration was moved earlier to ensure full participation. Over two days, RTC-KPVTC, Davao not only marked a historic milestone but also reaffirmed its commitment to shaping the future through technical-vocational education and holistic student development.
