TESDA RTC-KPVTC, Davao continues to uphold its commitment to providing practical and meaningful learning opportunities for students through an On-the-Job Training (OJT) program. This initiative enables students to enhance their competencies, apply classroom knowledge in real-life settings, and develop workplace readiness under the guidance of qualified TVET trainers. Beginning on May 10, 2025, six students from the Southern Philippines Agri-Business and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology (SPAMAST) Malita Campus were assigned to RTC-KPVTC, Davao. Throughout their training, they engaged in various institutional and technical assignments, gaining exposure to different aspects of TVET operations while contributing to the daily functions of the Training Center.
On July 23, 2025, RTC-KPVTC, Davao conducted the culmination program for the OJT students from SPAMAST Malita. The event was held at the TESDA RTC-KPVTC, Davao Mini-Theater, and formally opened with an invocation and the Philippine National Anthem presented via audio-visual presentation.
Although Center Administrator Engr. Constantino B. Panes, Jr., Ed. D., was scheduled to deliver the welcome message, he was attending an interview on the day of the event. In his stead, Mr. Mario M. Dela Cerna, Senior TESD Specialist and Training Department Head, warmly welcomed the guests and participants. Later in the program, Engr. Panes shared a special message highlighting the value of hands-on training and congratulating the students for completing their internship with diligence and professionalism.
Distinguished guests from SPAMAST Malita graced the program, including Mr. Leo C. Radores, MSAE, the BS Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (ABE) Program Head; Dr. Elenito P. Bugawisan, Dean of the Institute of Agricultural Sciences and Development Communication (IASDC); and Mr. Al Kristian Lou V. Presente, ABE, the SIPP Focal Person of IASDC. Each of them delivered brief but meaningful messages during the program, expressing their appreciation for the strong partnership between SPAMAST and RTC-KPVTC, Davao. They commended the quality of training provided to the OJT students, acknowledged the dedication of the TESDA trainers, and encouraged the trainees to continue honing their skills and embracing lifelong learning in their future careers.
One of the notable outcomes of the OJT engagement was the successful completion of the National Assessment in Rice Machinery Operations (RMO) NC II by all six OJT students. The students were trained and prepared by Engr. John Rome L. Balbanida and Engr. Jeric F. Bilita, who provided guidance and support throughout their RMO training. In addition to this, the students were also introduced to Hydroponics technology, under the supervision of Engr. Balbanida, where they gained insights into sustainable and soil-less farming practices. They likewise received hands-on exposure to basic forklift operations, a skill area facilitated by Engr. Lougino A. Miguel. These additional training opportunities broadened the students’ technical competencies and strengthened their preparedness for the evolving demands of the agri-industrial workforce.
The program also featured active participation from the trainees. Ella Cuerda, Mark Roger V. Formoso, Ma. Lea Concordia A. Jalos, Jeremy Glorain A. Ramirez, Alanie Bless A. Sarno, and Japeth Jay R. Solutan presented individual reports highlighting their learnings and shared their impressions of the OJT experience. They expressed gratitude for the opportunity to train in a dynamic and supportive environment and emphasized how the training deepened their technical knowledge and workplace readiness.
DABET trainers, Engr. John Rome L. Balbanida and Engr. Jeric F. Bilita, delivered a heartfelt response on behalf of the training team, recognizing the trainees’ dedication and growth. They were joined by fellow DABET faculty members namely, Engr. Ailyn R. Tejero, Jay Mark B. Nuevo, and Mary Grace P. Arellano, who also supported the training and mentoring of the students throughout the OJT period. A representative from SPAMAST Malita gave a message of appreciation, commending the partnership between the school and RTC-KPVTC, Davao. Engr. Lougino A. Miguel, DABET Head Trainer, concluded the program with an encouraging message, urging the trainees to continue pursuing excellence in their future endeavors. Ms. Ianna Marie D. Pioquinto served as the program emcee. Light snacks were served to cap off the successful activity and to celebrate the accomplishments of the OJT students.
