Press Release - Bong Go gives support to TESDA graduates in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija as he cites significance of techVoc education

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go assisted 600 beneficiaries of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) program in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija on Wednesday, December 27.

Go, adopted son of Nueva Ecija, expressed his support to the efforts of the local government in boosting economic opportunities in their communities. Among them were Governor Aurelio "Oyie" Umali, Congresswoman Rosanna "Ria" Vergara, Mayor Myca Elizabeth Vergara, and Vice Mayor Julius Cesar "Jay" Vergara.

The graduation was held at Padre Gregorio Crisostomo Integrated School where Go's Malasakit Team provided all graduates with shirts and balls for basketball and volleyball, as well as shoes and a mobile phone to select recipients.

In a video message, Go highlighted the significant role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in the country's progress. He explained that TVET is designed to close the skills gap and guarantee that Filipinos from all economic backgrounds can acquire pertinent and sought-after skills. This, in turn, will enable them to find meaningful employment and play a part in boosting the country's economic development.

The senator also filed Senate Bill No. (SBN) 2115 to institutionalize TVET and livelihood programs for rehabilitated drug dependents. The bill seeks to provide skills training and enhance the employability of former drug dependents, allowing them to rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities.

Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, urged residents to prioritize their well-being as he encouraged them to seek the services of the Malasakit Centers in the province for any medical-related assistance.

The Malasakit Centers Act, principally authored and sponsored by Go, simplifies access to medical assistance programs from various government agencies, including the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office.

Malasakit Centers in the province are located at Eduardo L. Joson Memorial Hospital and Dr. Paulino J. Garcia Memorial Research and Medical Center (PJGMRMC), both in