Farmers, Out-of-School Youth Among 1,999 TVET Graduates

PHILIPPINES. Bangsamoro (15 June 2026) - A total of 1,999 scholars completed Bangsamoro Government’s technical-vocational training during a mass commencement ceremony held at the KCC Mall of Cotabato Convention Center on June 11, 2026.

The graduates, under the Bangsamoro Scholarship Program for Technical-Vocational Education and Training (BSP-TVET), included farmers, out-of-school youth, women, senior citizens, and job seekers who underwent training in various in-demand skills programs implemented by the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education–Technical Education and Skills Development (MBHTE-TESD).

Interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua, who also serves as concurrent education minister, underscored the importance of education and skills development in advancing the region’s progress.

“Every graduate in this hall represents potential that has been developed and strengthened. Every skill acquired creates new possibilities. Every opportunity seized brings a family closer to stability and a community closer to progress,” Macacua said.

He reaffirmed the Bangsamoro Government’s commitment to expanding access to education and technical-vocational training.

“Under our vision of a Mas Matatag na Bangsamoro, we continue to invest in education and technical-vocational training because lasting progress depends on people who are prepared, capable, and willing to contribute to society,” he added.

The program aims to equip beneficiaries with industry-relevant competencies that can open pathways to employment, entrepreneurship, and improved quality of life.

Scholars completed training in courses such as carpentry, masonry, plumbing, bread and pastry production, cookery, organic agriculture production, pest management (vegetables), beauty care (nail care) services, animal production (poultry-chicken), and dressmaking.

Apart from gaining technical competencies, scholars also received training allowances and certificates recognizing the skills they acquired through the program.

Carrying the theme, “Empowering Skills, Building Futures, Transforming Lives,” this year’s graduates came from diverse sectors across the Bangsamoro region.

The initiative forms part of the Bangsamoro Government’s broader strategy to promote inclusive development by expanding access to practical skills training and creating greater livelihood opportunities for Bangsamoro communities.

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