In celebration of Women’s Month 2025, the TESDA XI Davao City District Office, in collaboration with the Regional Training Center – Korea-Philippines Vocational Training Center (RTC-Korphil), successfully conducted a Livelihood Skills Training on Lettuce Production Using Hydroponics on March 19, 2025, at Camp Quitin M. Merecido, Catitipan, Buhangin, Davao City. This event was in line with this year’s theme, “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas,” which emphasizes the crucial role of women across various sectors in driving the nation toward a brighter future.
The event commenced with a solemn prayer led by PCMS April Mae J. Campaner, FJGADS Action PNCO This was followed by a warm and inspiring welcome message by PCPT Petchy G. Apas, Chief of the Family Juvenile Gender and Development Section (FJGADS) and Freedom of Information (FOI) officer that set the tone for a day of learning and empowerment.
Ms. Catherine Perez, Administrative Officer V., Scholarship Focal TESDA Davao City District Office then delivered an encouraging message, highlighting the importance of equipping women and uniformed personnel with skills that promote sustainable livelihoods and self-sufficiency. Her words reinforced the vision of the Women’s Month theme, underscoring the potential of every individual to contribute to a “Bagong Pilipinas.”
The highlight of the event was the training proper conducted by Engr. John Rome Balbanida, an expert trainer from RTC-Korphil and a specialist in Hydroponics technology. He provided hands-on guidance to the 25 uniformed personnel who participated in the training, equipping them with practical knowledge in Lettuce Production Using Hydroponics.
Hydroponics, a method of growing plants without soil by using nutrient-rich water solutions, is a sustainable and efficient way to cultivate fresh vegetables. Lettuce, being one of the easiest and most profitable crops to grow through this method, offers a viable livelihood option for participants. Engr. Balbanida meticulously guided the attendees through the step-by-step process of setting up and maintaining a hydroponic system, ensuring they gained both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.
This initiative not only aligns with the Women’s Month theme but also empowers uniformed personnel, particularly women, by providing them with skills that can lead to self-sufficiency and additional sources of income. It highlights the capability of women to excel in all sectors, including agriculture, and emphasizes their essential role in building a progressive and sustainable nation.
As the participants gained hands-on knowledge and practical skills, they also took a step toward contributing to a “Bagong Pilipinas,” where inclusivity, sustainability, and growth go hand in hand. By empowering women and uniformed personnel through livelihood programs such as hydroponics, TESDA XI and RTC-Korphil continue to pave the way for a more prosperous and equitable future.
The successful conduct of this training reaffirms the commitment of TESDA XI and RTC-Korphil to uplift communities by providing opportunities for growth and empowerment—truly a reflection of the spirit of Women’s Month.
