Amid the challenges brought by a magnitude 6.4 earthquake that struck Davao Oriental on the morning of January 7, 2026, the dedication to public service remained steadfast as personnel of the Regional Training Center – Korea-Philippines Vocational Training Center (RTC-KPVTC) Davao personnel successfully carried out the release of the Training Support Fund (TSF) for STEP scholars at the Blue Harbor Building, Brgy. Central, Mati City.
A total of 97 trainees under the Special Training for Employment Program (STEP) Scholarship benefited from the allowance distribution. The activity covered scholars enrolled in Cookery NC II and Bread and Pastry Production (BPP) NC II, for both Batch 1 and Batch 2 participants.
Despite the sudden seismic disturbance, the activity proceeded with heightened vigilance and coordination, prioritizing the safety of both scholars and staff. In partnership with the Office of the Representative of the 2nd District of Davao Oriental led by Cong. Cheeno Miguel Almario, and RTC-KPVTC Davao’s Ms. Johanna Reasle Fernandez and Ms. Mary Grace Sijuela — representing the TESDA Davao City District Office (DCDO) through its District Director, RD Tarhata S. Mapandi — demonstrated resilience and professionalism by ensuring uninterrupted service delivery.
Scholars were likewise informed that they are currently awaiting the arrival of their toolkits, which will be released immediately upon delivery as part of their STEP scholarship benefits. These toolkits are expected to further strengthen hands-on training and skills development.
The successful conduct of the allowance release, even in the face of a natural disaster, underscores TESDA’s unwavering commitment to accessible technical-vocational education and community empowerment. Through sustained collaboration with local government partners, STEP continues to open opportunities and strengthen workforce readiness in Davao Oriental.
