KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, Philippines | April 1, 2026 — Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. welcomed national officials of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for a consultative meeting on culture and arts programs supporting local cultural communities and Manlilikha ng Bayan artisans.
The visit was led by TESDA Deputy Director General Nelly Nita Dillera, together with representatives from the central office, to discuss initiatives that will strengthen skills development and livelihood opportunities for traditional artisans in the province.
Tamayo highlighted the importance of preserving culture while creating economic opportunities.
“Dito sa South Cotabato, patuloy nating pinagyayaman at pinoprotektahan ang ating kultura at tradisyon… Lubos ang ating pasasalamat sa TESDA sa kanilang suporta sa ating cultural communities,” the governor said.
He added that programs for Manlilikha ng Bayan artists will help sustain traditions while opening pathways for employment and entrepreneurship.
The TESDA Provincial Office, led by Noralaine Rogong, reported that nine participants have already been awarded Certificates of Recognition as Community-Based Trainers after completing the Community-Based Trainers Methodology Course (CBTMC).
More weavers from Lake Sebu, Tboli, and Polomolok are set to undergo the same training to become certified trainers and preserve indigenous weaving traditions.
The program also aims to equip artisans with National Certificate II (NC II) qualifications, enabling them to become trainers, micro-credential providers, and potential enterprise leaders. Plans are also underway to establish a GAMABA cultural hub that will serve as a training and assessment center.
Senior Tourism Operations Officer Argie Ryan Asaria said the initiative strengthens both culture and tourism.
“By certifying our weavers through TESDA, we not only preserve tradition but also create opportunities for livelihood and tourism experiences,” Asaria said.
Meanwhile, Lake Sebu Tourism Officer Jennifer Tupas confirmed that TESDA will continue providing training for local weavers.
“These trainings will help our weavers gain skills certification and improve their craft while sustaining our cultural heritage,” Tupas said.
At present, Tupas said that at least 100 traditional weavers are recorded in Lake Sebu.
The provincial government said the initiative aligns skills training with industry needs, ensuring that programs lead to jobs, entrepreneurship, and sustainable livelihoods while preserving the identity of South Cotabato’s cultural communities.
