Mayor John Dalipe and Majority Leader and District II Congressman Mannix Dalipe, spearhead the distribution of TESDA Toolkits to 88 Dalipe Scholars Thursday, July 18 at the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority office in San Roque.

The scholars were beneficiaries of the Special Training for Employment Program (STEP), a key project of Sec. Suharto “Teng” Mangudadatu, Majority Leader and District II Congressman Mannix Dalipe, and Mayor John Dalipe.

This program was designed to provide Zamboangueños with access to high-quality training, thereby enhancing their skills and employability.

Of the total STEP beneficiaries that are now NCII holders, 42 completed a 60-day course in dressmaking, while 46 completed a 50-day course in Electrical Installation and Maintenance (EIM). Both training and assessment were conducted by Advancetech International Manpower Training Center (AIMTC).

Dressmaking graduates received a sewing machine each, while EIM graduates received a cordless drill each, equipping them with the tools needed to kickstart their careers.

Mayor Dalipe expressed optimism on the transformative potential that the initiative could bring to the scholars, urged them to take full advantage of the opportunities afforded by the government. “Este maga equipo el fundacion donde ay crea ustedes un buscavida que ay sustene hinde lang na de ustedes provicion na cada dia, si no asta de ustedes maga sueños para di ustedes familia.

“Together, we are creating a future where every individual has a chance to thrive, where skills and knowledge are stepping stones to a better life.” Dalipe added.

Present during the distribution were Councilors Al-Jihan Edding, Charlie Mariano, Boday Cabato, and SK National President Councilor Carol Julianne Dalipe, TESDA ZCICDO District Director Omarkhayyam Dalagan, TESDA ZCICDO Supervising TESD Specialist Gloria Halirin, and AIMTC President Capt. Aaron Go and staff. (Bernadeth Lazaro) (photo credits: Kathy Wee Sit)