In a significant move to uplift the community, AboitizPower Renewables Inc. (APRI) through its Aboitiz Foundation, has launched a scholarship program for 22 out-of-school youths from Tiwi, Albay. The initiative, funded with nearly PHP300,000, was facilitated through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Bicol, marking a pivotal moment for the beneficiaries from Barangay Libjo.
The scholarship recipients will embark on a comprehensive training journey starting in March, focusing on the Electrical Installation and Maintenance (EIM) course offered by TESDA. This full scholarship covers all training expenses, insurance, and provides a daily allowance, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their educational pursuits. The program includes 25 days of in-school training followed by a five-month on-the-job training period, culminating in the National Certification (NC) II examination.
Kim Desepeda, APRI’s information officer, highlighted the broader scope of their educational support, noting that APRI currently funds 81 scholars across different locations, including 29 at the Tiwi Geothermal Plant and 30 at the MakBan Geothermal Plant. The addition of these 22 scholars from Tiwi represents a continued commitment to fostering skill development and economic growth in the region.
Wendy Bautista, APRI’s reputation manager, expressed optimism about the program’s impact, stating that the goal is to enhance the employment prospects of the scholars, thereby contributing to the economic vitality of Tiwi. Since its inception in 2011, APRI’s efforts have resulted in 435 scholars across Tiwi and MakBan, with 392 successfully graduating.
TESDA-5 Acting Director Mariglo Macabuhay-Sese praised the initiative, emphasizing its potential to transform the lives of the scholars and their families. She urged parents to actively support their children throughout the training, underscoring the importance of community involvement in the success of such programs.