By Stephanie Nicole Peligman
BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority–Cordillera State Institute of Technical Education (TESDA-CSITE) formalized key industry partnerships through the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) to enhance enterprise-based training, workforce upskilling, and industry-aligned technical-vocational education and training (TVET) programs in the Cordillera region. The agreements were signed during TESDA CSITE’s 7th Founding Anniversary celebration at the institute’s Main Campus Multi-Purpose Hall in Military Cut-Off, Baguio City, on January 24.
The MOUs involve TESDA-CSITE and prominent industry partners, including John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC), MOOG Controls Corporation, and Baguio City Country Club (BCCC). TESDA Secretary and Director General Jose Francisco “Kiko” B. Benitez signed the MOUs on behalf of TESDA-CSITE. Partner representatives included JHMC President and Chief Executive Officer Manjit T. Singh Reandi, MOOG Controls Corporation Manager for Human Resources Norbyne P. Litaoen, and BCCC Corporate Communications and Customer Service Manager Andrew D. Pinero.
Under the agreements, the parties committed to collaborating on Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) programs, micro-credentials and short-term courses, workplace immersion, supervised industry learning, on-the-job training, and apprenticeship programs. The MOUs also cover joint development and enhancement of competency standards, curricula, and assessment tools.
During his keynote address, Secretary Benitez highlighted the significance of these industry partnerships:
“Enterprise-based training is and has the highest employability rates of around 86 to almost 95 percent, depending on the industry. With the micro-credential programs launched last year, we are now poised to become more flexible, agile, and rapid in our response to the job-skills mismatch.”
The partnerships provide opportunities for the shared use of facilities, equipment, and learning resources, ensuring that training programs remain responsive and aligned with industry practices. Collaboration with JHMC and BCCC focuses on tourism and service-oriented industries, supporting workforce development in Camp John Hay and other hospitality operations in Baguio City.
Meanwhile, the MOOG Controls Corporation partnership targets manufacturing and engineering, expanding technical training and industry-aligned skills development.
CSITE Executive Director Daisy C. Bungallon emphasized that the MOUs reflect the institute’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the industry–academe collaboration and improving employability outcomes for TVET learners.
Also present to witness the signing were TESDA Deputy Director General for TESD Operations Vidal D. Villanueva III; Deputy Director General for TVET Partnerships and Linkages Felizardo R. Colambo; Deputy Director General for TVET Partnerships and Linkages Nelly Nita N. Dillera; Acting Regional Director of TESDA CAR Engr. Glenn Murphy, Baguio City Congressman Mauricio G. Domogan, and other TESDA officials, industry partners, local officials of Baguio City, and stakeholders.
The MOUs take effect upon signing and are valid for an initial period of two years, with the possibility of renewal upon mutual agreement, in accordance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.
