Apayao Governor Elias Bulut Jr. Discusses Development Thrusts with TESDA-CAR Management Committee

The TESDA-CAR Management Committee (ManCom) met with Governor Elias Bulut, Jr. in the latter’s office on February 12, 2019. Acting RD Manuel Wong explained that the monthly ManCom meetings take place in the provinces by rotation so the ManCom members get familiarized with the province and the provincial office staff can also participate.

ARD Manuel Wong (2nd from left) informs Governor Bulut (2nd from right) about the scholarships provided to Apayao Training Center, a LGU-run TVET provider in the province.

Apayao hosts one of two (2) LGU-run Training Centers in the Cordillera, the Apayao Training Center which is located inside the compound of the Provincial Capitol in Luna.

Governor Bulut informed the group that the long-term thrust for the province is on eco-tourism, which requires preservation of their forests, He shared that their partnership with the US Foreign Service has resulted in the identification of new plant species.

Another possibility is regulated small-scale mining in Upper Apayao.

The Governor conceded that individuals with skills earn more. He said that the expansion and relocation of the Apayao Training Center is in the provincial plan, to provide greater access to trainees. ARD Wong informed the Governor that the Qualification Maps for free TVET in the center has been submitted for Secretary Isidro Lapeña’s approval.

Governor Bulut invited the group to visit the beautiful spots of Apayao. After the ManCom Meeting was adjourned, the group went to Marag Valley where some went inside the pristine underground river. #