TECH-VOC SCHOOLS IN ILOCOS SURORIENTED ON OWWA'S SKILLS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

In its continuing effort to effectively implement its programs and services, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration Regional Welfare Office I (OWWA RWOI) has met with Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and Technical Vocational Institutions (TVIs) in the Province of Ilocos Sur for an orientation and consultation on the implementation of the Skills For Employment Scholarship Program (SESP) in Ilocos Sur. 

Around 30 stakeholders gathered on November 13, 2015 at the Max's Restaurant, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur to discuss updates and issues in the SESP implementation. Present during the meeting were administrators and coordinators of various TVIs and HEIs in Ilocos Sur, and OWWA RWOI officers and personnel.

One of the pioneer programs of OWWA, the SESP is intended for member-OFWs or their qualified dependents who wish to enroll in short-term courses to acquire technical-vocational skills for future employment. Under the program, the grantee receives P14,500 assistance for the training fee.

Officer-in-Charge Sergio B. Borgueta, Jr. welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of the meeting. OIC-PSD Gerardo C. Rimorin presented the Objectives and Overview of the Activity.

Ms. Rhoda Nilda Placida R. Lee, Education, Scholarships and Training Unit Head, presented the SESP general guidelines and eligibility requirements. Ms. Maritess Dugenia, OWWA RWOI SESP Focal Person, discussed on the course offerings, documentary requirements and process flow. Ms. Marissa Naboye, OWWO II, presented the program statistics to show the trends in the SESP availment in Ilocos Sur and the region.

Ms. Lee and Ms. Virna Agbayani, Ilocos Sur Family Welfare Officer, then facilitated the Presentation of Issues and Drafting of Agreements between the agency and the partner institutions.

The TVIs, meanwhile, expressed their commitment to strengthen their partnership with RWOI for the SESP. Ms. Minda Marquez, administrator of Builders Institute of Technology in Vigan City, shared her experiences in the implementation of such program. "OWWA RWOI has been our trusted partner through the years," Marquez said, "and we are glad we could help in promoting the welfares of OFW Families in Ilocos Sur." 

For interested qualified applicants for SESP, OWWA RWOI may be reached through 0927 620 7300, or at email address owwalaunion@yahoo.com, for application evaluation. # Source - by Justin Paul D. Marbella, OWWA RWOI