RTC-Baguio gets 2 stars, major upgrade in machining

The Regional Training Center-Baguio (RTC-Baguio) was honored with the 2-STAR Award for its Machining National Certificate (NC) II program during the 2 nd National Quality TVET Forum at the Crowne Plaza Manila Gelleria Hotel in Quezon City last October 27.

“The 2-STAR award is a big boost for RTC-Baguio as it shows the consistent quality of trainings that the center provides as a Center of Excellence, as well as the commitment and teamwork of the people making up the institution,” said Noriel Ramos, RTC-Baguio trainer who attended the awarding ceremony.

He said that the rating was based on the ocular visit and evaluation conducted last May 22-23 at the center by the STAR Validation Team headed by Eduardo Aminiana of the Central Office.

Based on the evaluation, the Machining program earned enough points which qualified it to the 2-STAR rating under the STAR Rating System of Technical Vocational and Education and Training (TVET) Programs, the highest of which is 3 stars. The rating signifies that the program delivery and performance is substantially above the threshold of quality standards and is valid for two years.

“More than the recognition, the award is also a challenge for the center to sustain the quality of its services, and aim for higher level excellence in its endeavors,” said Engr. David Bungallon, Provincial Director of TESDA-Mountain Province. He was also the center administrator of RTC-Baguio for the past three years.

Bungallon added that the center should also aim for accreditation in Asia Pacific Accreditation and Certification Commission (APACC) and East Asia Summit on TVET Quality Assurance Framework (EAS TVET QAF).

Moreover, Ramos said that the award boosted the center’s request for additional machines and equipment for its machining programs from the Central Office.

“The additional machines will significantly improve our programs, particularly in our plan to offer higher level programs in machining, as well as a 3-year Diploma Program in Mechanical Engineering Technology by next year,” said Engr. Hector Laguardia, current OIC- Center Administrator.

He added that the 30 plus machining and Computer Numeric Control machines are expected to be transferred to the center next month.

The RTC-Baguio offers Machining as its Distinctive Area of Competence (DAC), producing graduates that supply the metal manufacturing industries in the region, as well as in Region III, IV-A and the National Capital Region. #Bernice B. Lee