Category Archives: news

TESDA–Aparri Polytechnic Institute conducted its Advisory Council Meeting via Zoom on May 5, 2026, bringing together representatives from government, industry, and the academe.

The meeting focused on key agenda items, including the presentation, recommendation, and approval of the Reward and Recognition Policy for personnel and staff, along with the proposed Scholarship Support Fund for Masteral and Doctoral Studies. A letter request from the Partnerships and Linkages Office was also presented for consideration.

Four (4) resolutions were approved for issuance, covering the recommendation and approval of the Reward and Recognition Policy; the establishment of the Scholarship Support Fund; the approval of the Partnerships and Linkages Office request for the conduct of activities with industry partners and the revision and renewal of Memoranda of Agreement (MOA); and the crafting of a Faculty Manual.

Updates on the upcoming WorldSkills Competition 2026 (Region II), set to be hosted at API, were likewise discussed. Council members shared insights and recommendations to further strengthen institutional programs and industry linkages.

The meeting concluded with a stronger commitment among stakeholders to support TESDA-API initiatives and advance relevant, industry-driven skills development.

With pride and honor, TESDA–Aparri Polytechnic Institute congratulates its outstanding competitors for their remarkable achievements during the WorldSkills Philippines – Cagayan Valley Regional Skills Olympics 2026 held on May 19–20, 2026 at TESDA-API.

Gold Medalists
• Dean Elthon D. Piano – Electronics
• Denise S. Ayon – Hotel Reception
• Renz T. Felipe – Joinery
• Ranjen M. Cadoy – Mechanical Engineering CAD

Silver Medalists
• Mariane E. Antolin – Beauty Therapy
• Jeremy T. Alipio – Electrical Installation
• Carl Anthony P. Torda – ICT Network Infrastructure
• Marc Aldrin M. Grande – Plumbing and Heating
• Aicelle A. Santos – Renewable Energy
• Cyrus-Gelo M. Maret – Restaurant Service

 Bronze Medalist
• Louiegel Josh A. Tumbaga – Fashion Technology

Through their dedication, perseverance, and exceptional skills, our competitors have once again demonstrated the excellence that defines TESDA-API. Their achievements stand as proof that hard work, discipline, and quality training lead to success.

To our medalists, trainers, experts, and support personnel, thank you for bringing pride and honor to our institution. As our winners advance to the next level of competition, know that the entire TESDA-API community stands firmly behind you every step of the way.

You have proven that “Basta API, Tatak Husay, Tatak Tagumpay!”

#api_tatakhusay #SaTESDAKayangKaya #worldskillsphcagayanvalley #WorldSkillsPh

Aparri, Cagayan – April 21, 2026 — A significant milestone in community development and skills empowerment was celebrated as beneficiaries from ELCAC barangays in the Municipality of Sta. Ana successfully graduated from the Hilot (Wellness Massage) NC II program.

The graduation ceremony gathered representatives from various national and local government agencies, demonstrating strong inter-agency collaboration in support of the government’s whole-of-nation approach under the ELCAC (End Local Communist Armed Conflict) program.

Among the distinguished guests was Ms. Lalaine Pamittan, representing the Provincial Governor, Hon. Edgar Aglipay. The Local Government Unit of Sta. Ana was represented by MLGOO VI Ms. Jasmine Aresta on behalf of Mayor Nelson Robinion. Also present were PMajor Joseph Agustin representing PNP Cagayan, Mr. Florentino Bosi from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Ms. Mylene Domingo from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Mr. George Caday from the Department of Agriculture (DA), Ms. Twinkle Alvarado from LGU Sta. Ana CTEC, and Ms. Arlyn Ventican from the Municipal Tourism Office.

Representing TESDA Cagayan and the Aparri Polytechnic Institute was Alma Diaros, Ph.D., who underscored the agency’s commitment to delivering quality technical education and skills development programs to underserved communities. She highlighted the importance of equipping beneficiaries with industry-relevant competencies that open doors to employment and entrepreneurship.

In their respective messages, the representatives expressed their full support to the graduates, emphasizing the importance of livelihood skills in promoting economic stability and sustainable peace in formerly vulnerable communities. Each agency reaffirmed its commitment to provide continued assistance through programs, resources, and opportunities that will help the graduates start or expand their wellness services.

The training was facilitated by Ms. Emilia A. Aquino, Associate Professor V, who was commended for her dedication in equipping the trainees with the necessary competencies in hilot or traditional Filipino therapeutic massage. Her guidance ensured that the graduates met the standards required under the national certification.

The Hilot (Wellness Massage) NC II program aims to provide beneficiaries with employable skills and entrepreneurial opportunities in the wellness industry. For many of the graduates, the training represents not only a new source of income but also a pathway toward improved quality of life for their families.

The event concluded with the awarding of certificates, marking the graduates’ readiness to venture into the wellness sector and contribute to the continued development and peace-building efforts in their respective communities.

This initiative highlights the power of collaboration among government agencies in empowering communities through skills development, reinforcing the vision of inclusive growth and lasting peace in ELCAC barangays.

Success is never built overnight—it is laid brick by brick through perseverance, sacrifice, and determination. For Shera Mae D. Rosete, her journey was not just about earning a degree, but about proving that dreams have no expiration date.

Being older than most of her classmates never became a limitation. Instead, it became her strength. She held on to the belief that inspired her throughout her journey: “Don’t let the number of years define the size of your dreams. Your degree is still waiting.”

Shera Mae first began shaping her future at Aparri Polytechnic Institute (API), where she completed her Diploma in Civil Engineering Technology on October 24, 2024. Through the program, she gained practical competencies, technical expertise, and industry-ready skills that laid the foundation of her aspirations.

Along the way, she encountered doubts and negativity—but she chose to rise above them. As she would often remind herself, “Your negativity tries to pull me down? Sorry dear, I use it as my weapon to rise up.” These words fueled her resilience and strengthened her determination to keep moving forward despite challenges.

A diploma alone can already open doors to meaningful careers and brighter opportunities. Yet for Shera Mae, it became more than just an achievement—it became her stepping stone. Through the ladderized education system in the Philippines, diploma programs under TESDA serve as pathways to higher education, enabling graduates to pursue bachelor’s degrees through partner institutions.

Driven to reach greater heights, Shera Mae continued her journey at Lyceum of Aparri. With unwavering determination, countless sacrifices, and steadfast perseverance, she proudly graduated on April 25, 2026 with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering.

Her story is a powerful reminder that success is not defined by age, but by courage and commitment. From diploma halls to the stage of her bachelor’s graduation, Shera Mae stands as living proof that technical education is not just a destination—it is a bridge to greater achievements.

Today, she rises not only as a graduate, but as an inspiration to many—especially to those who may feel that time is no longer on their side. Her journey echoes a truth worth holding on to: it is never too late to dream, and never too late to achieve.

APARRI, CAGAYAN – In line with its commitment to expand access to skills training and community-based development, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) through Aparri Polytechnic Institute (API) successfully conducted a Training Induction Program (TIP) for scholars enrolled in Hilot (Wellness Massage) NC II and Masonry NC II under the Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP).

The activity was held at St. Vincent Ferrer Parish as part of TESDA Aparri Polytechnic Institute’s Vision-driven Interfaith Network for Skills Empowerment (VINE) initiative, which aims to bring technical education and skills development closer to communities through partnerships with faith-based organizations.

Participants of the program were composed of trainees from the barangays of Balatubat, Naguilian, and Minabel, reflecting TESDA’s continuing effort to reach grassroots beneficiaries and provide inclusive opportunities for skills training and livelihood development.

The TIP was facilitated by Francisco Gringo C. Tagabi, Vocational School Administrator III of Aparri Polytechnic Institute, who oriented the scholars on the training guidelines, expectations, scholarship benefits, and their roles and responsibilities as TESDA trainees.

During the induction, participants were also introduced to the importance of discipline, commitment, and skills excellence as they undergo their respective training programs. The initiative highlights TESDA’s mission of empowering individuals through relevant, accessible, and high-quality technical education geared towards employment and entrepreneurship.

Through programs like TWSP and initiatives such as VINE, TESDA continues to strengthen its outreach efforts, ensuring that more communities benefit from skills training that leads to improved livelihoods and sustainable development.

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority–Aparri Polytechnic Institute (TESDA-API) successfully conducted its Initial Curriculum Planning for the proposed Diploma in Information and Communication Technology (DICT) on January 7, 2025, at the TESDA-API Faculty Room.

The activity marks a significant milestone in the institute’s strategic initiatives for Calendar Year 2026, as TESDA-API continues to expand its academic offerings by introducing an additional diploma program designed to respond to the rapidly evolving demands of the information and communication technology sector.

The curriculum planning was spearheaded by the institute’s Technical Working Group (TWG), composed of key academic and technical personnel, including Mr. Robert C. Revilla, Vocational Instruction Supervisor; Ms. Novalyn P. Paguila, UTPRAS Focal; trainers Ms. Eloisa F. Bialba and Engr. Carlo James C. Tappa; and IT experts Mr. John Christopher T. Contillo and Ms. Benilda S. Dela Cruz.

During the collaborative session, the TWG thoroughly discussed the proposed program framework, competency standards, course structure, and curriculum alignment with TESDA policies and industry requirements. Emphasis was placed on developing a responsive and industry-aligned curriculum that will equip future graduates with relevant technical skills, practical competencies, and job-ready knowledge.

The successful conduct of the initial curriculum planning reflects TESDA-API’s continuing commitment to delivering quality, relevant, and future-ready technical education, while supporting national goals for digital transformation and workforce development.

Despite the challenges of geography and access, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) successfully conducted a Curtain Making Training from January 5 to 7 in Tanglagan, Gattaran, Cagayan, reaffirming its commitment to bringing skills training closer to communities in need.

What made the activity especially remarkable was the dedication of the trainer, Mr. Pedro R. Patrono, who crossed 11 river sections to reach the remote training venue. Carrying the TESDA banner and the spirit of “Basta sama-sama, kayang-kaya,” Aparri Polytechnic Institute’s journey symbolized TESDA’s unwavering mission to reach even the farthest communities and ensure that no Filipino is left behind in skills development.

The three-day training provided participants with hands-on knowledge and practical skills in curtain making, equipping them with livelihood competencies that can be immediately applied for income-generating activities. The activity was warmly received by community members, who expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn a marketable skill without having to travel far from their homes.

This outreach initiative highlights TESDA’s strong advocacy for inclusive and accessible training programs, especially in geographically challenged areas. Through dedication, teamwork, and service, TESDA continues to prove that distance is never a barrier when it comes to empowering communities through skills and livelihood opportunities.

APARRI, CAGAYAN — Aparri Polytechnic Institute (API) conducted a three-day Curriculum Review and Validation for sixteen (16) National Certificate (NC) II programs on November 26, November 28, and December 5, 2025, as part of its continuing efforts to ensure curriculum relevance and compliance with current Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Training Regulations.

The activity gathered administrators, trainers, and curriculum developers to assess existing curricula, validate learning outcomes, and align training delivery with industry standards and workforce requirements.

On Day 1 (November 26, 2025), the review covered the following technical and construction-related programs: Tile Setting NC II, Masonry NC II, Technical Drafting NC II, Computer Systems Servicing NC II, Electric Products Assembly and Servicing NC II, Shielded Metal Arc Welding NC II, and Plumbing NC II.

The second day (November 28, 2025) focused on wellness, personal services, garment, and community-based programs, including Hilot (Wellness Massage) NC II, Barbering NC II, Tailoring NC II, Dressmaking NC II, Caregiving NC II, and Barangay Health Services NC II. Discussions emphasized competency standards, employability skills, and community relevance.

On Day 3 (December 5, 2025), the curriculum review and validation centered on Beauty Care (Nail Care) Services NC II, Organic Agriculture Production NC II, and Agroentrepreneurship NC II. The sessions highlighted sustainability, entrepreneurship integration, and alignment with emerging industry and community needs.

Recommendations generated during the activity will guide curriculum enhancement, updating, and institutional adoption to further strengthen the quality of training programs offered by API.

The curriculum review and validation underscores Aparri Polytechnic Institute’s commitment to delivering quality, industry-responsive, and competency-based technical-vocational education and training in support of local and regional development.

Aparri, Cagayan — Trainees enrolled in Automotive Servicing NC I of the Aparri Polytechnic Institute (API) successfully participated in a Job Shadowing activity at CAIS Golden Hand Auto Services, Tuguegarao City, on November 28, 2025, as part of their industry exposure and skills enhancement program.

The activity was conducted under the supervision of their trainer, Mr. Wilmar B. Condoy, and aimed to provide the trainees with hands-on observation of actual automotive servicing operations in a real workplace setting. Through job shadowing, the trainees were able to closely observe experienced automotive technicians as they performed routine maintenance, diagnostics, and basic repair services.

The job shadowing experience allowed the trainees to gain practical insights into industry standards, workplace safety practices, proper use of tools and equipment, and customer service procedures. It also helped bridge the gap between classroom instruction and real-world application, reinforcing the competencies required under the Automotive NC I qualification.

CAIS Golden Hand Auto Services generously shared its facilities, expertise, and work environment, giving the trainees valuable exposure to current automotive technologies and professional work ethics. The management and staff actively engaged with the trainees, answering questions and explaining work processes to deepen their understanding of the trade.

Aparri, Cagayan — The Aparri Polytechnic Institute (API) has deployed its DEET Batch 1 trainees, led by Engineer Wilbert T. Fernando, Instructor I to participate in the Job Fair Activity cum Government Service Caravan held on November 26, 2025, at the Municipal Gymnasium, Centro East, Sta. Teresita, Cagayan.

The participation is in response to request of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Office 02. API’s delegation includes students from the Diploma in Engineering Technology program who attended and took part in the event’s various activities.

As part of their contribution to the government caravan, the API team conducted a Demonstration on Basic Repair of Electronics Products and offered Free Service for Electronics Appliances to community members. The initiative showcased the trainees’ competencies while also extending valuable public service to residents of Sta. Teresita.

In addition, Registrar III Mr. Erick Q. Malicad led a Social Marketing Advocacy Campaign, promoting the various programs, qualifications, and training opportunities offered by TESDA. His session aimed to raise public awareness on accessible skills development pathways and encourage community members to pursue technical-vocational education.

The Job Fair and Government Service Caravan is part of the continuing efforts of local agencies to provide employment opportunities and frontline services to the public.