Former rebel finds new hope through TESDA
By Nora L. Molde
BUTUAN CITY — As a powerful testament to transformation and resilience, 178 scholars, including former rebels (FRs) and Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) Active Auxiliary personnel, graduated from various technical vocational courses during the recent mass graduation ceremony in Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte.
Among them was Bembem, a former rebel and solo parent, who found new hope through the training programs of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
Bembem, who used to be a teacher for the revolutionary movement under the New People’s Army (NPA), spent 14 years as a member of the communist armed group. She met her late husband during her time as an insurgent. Now, as she prepares for reintegration into the community, her ultimate goal is to provide a better future for her child.
She is currently under the custody of the 29th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, receiving full support from the unit under Lieutenant Colonel Mark S. Tabon, commanding officer of the 29IB, who strongly advocates for equipping former rebels not only with technical skills but also with a brighter future upon reintegration.
“TESDA, salamat kaayo sa paghatag ninyo ug higayon kanamong FRs, na maka-avail sa inyong libreng training. Dili lang na-develop ang akong skills, nakadawat ako ug National Certificate, ug labaw sa tanan, nakakita pa ako ug extended family na andam mugiya kanamo,” shared Bembem.
(Thank you, TESDA, for giving the FRs the opportunity to avail of free skills training. Not only did we develop our skills and acquire National Certificates, but we also found in you an extended family ready to guide us in our reintegration.)
In pursuit of her passion for teaching, Bembem also plans to enroll in TESDA’s Training Methodology (TM) program to become a certified trainer and help others rebuild their lives.
The graduation ceremony celebrated the achievements of 178 special client graduates, with 100 completing basic vehicle maintenance, 27 finishing preparing cold meals, 26 excelling in basic welding, and 25 mastering plastering (masonry). To support their transition, each graduate received a starter toolkit, providing them with essential tools to begin their new careers.
Brigadier General Arsenio DC Sadural, commander of the 901st Infantry Brigade, emphasized the significance of these programs in preventing the resurgence of insurgencies by providing viable economic alternatives to vulnerable communities. He recognized the role of TESDA and partner agencies in ensuring that former rebels gain meaningful employment and economic stability.
Further reinforcing this initiative, the provincial government of Agusan del Norte, under Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante, extended financial support to ensure the protection and welfare of the FRs while they remain in the custody of the 29th Infantry Battalion. This financial assistance provided a secure environment and resources to aid in their transition to civilian life.
The city government of Cabadbaran, led by Mayor Judy C. Amante, also expressed its commitment to supporting programs that help former rebels reintegrate into society. Mayor Amante has been actively advocating for skills development and livelihood programs that provide economic opportunities for FRs, ensuring they have a sustainable and dignified future.
TESDA Caraga Regional Director Florencio F. Sunico Jr. assured that TESDA continues to play a crucial role in promoting social inclusivity by offering tailored Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs for former rebels, marginalized individuals, and indigenous communities. These initiatives not only pave the way for employment opportunities but also serve as a means for reintegration, empowerment, and peace-building.
“The mass graduation marked another milestone in TESDA’s mission to build a skilled and self-sufficient workforce, proving once again that #SaTESDAKayangKaya,” Dir. Sunico said. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)
