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.