Dozens of TESDA trainees at the Regional Training Center Korea-Philippines Vocational Training Center (RTC-KPVTC), Davao spent their Monday morning not in the workshop, but in the multipurpose hall, learning how to budget, save, and invest for their futures.
The NSTP-CWTS unit of RTC-KPVTC, Davao held its Basic Financial Literacy Training on May 11, 2026, in partnership with FirstMetroSec- Metrobank Group. The half-day event drew NSTP 1 and 2 trainees across all trade areas and NSTP trainers, all gathered with one shared goal: to gain the financial knowledge that technical training alone cannot provide.
The activity was anchored on the growing financial vulnerability of many young Filipinos in the face of inflation, rising costs of living, and economic uncertainty. This made the case that RTC-KPVTC, Davao trainees, as future skilled workers, deserved more than just a trade; they deserved the tools to manage what they earn.
Ms. Mary Grace Arellano presents the program rationale and objectives to the NSTP-CWTS trainees
The heart of the morning belonged to Ms. Isnaira Miranda Dirampatun, Investor Education and Development Associate of FirstMetroSec, who took the floor for her session titled “Smart Money Habits for Students: Building Financial Security Beyond the Allowance.” Speaking directly to the realities of young earners, Ms. Dirampatun walked trainees through budgeting basics, saving strategies, the fundamentals of investing, building an emergency fund, and how to recognize and sidestep common debt traps.
Ms. Dirampatun from FirstMetroSec-Metrobank Group during her talk on Smart Money Habits for Students
More than a lecture, the session was a conversation. The participants actively engaged in discussions that brought the numbers to life against the backdrop of their own daily experiences.
The event wrapped up with the Awarding of Tokens and Certificates led by Mr. Edison C. Tasic, NSTP-CWTS coordinator of RTC-KPVTC, Davao, followed by a photo opportunity that capped a morning well spent.
NSTP-CWTS Trainees with their NSTP Coordinator, Mr. Tasic, and NSTP Trainers, Ms. Dina Nuevo and Mr. Jay Mark Nuevo and speaker, Ms. Dirampatun
Photo courtesy: Ms. Dina Catantan-Nuevo, SMAC Member