The Southern Philippines Agribusiness and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology (SPAMAST), in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), formalized a significant step toward strengthening technical-vocational education and skills development through the Signing of the Deed of Usufruct for the Provincial Training Center – Malita Annex on October 12, 2026.
The ceremony brought together representatives from SPAMAST, TESDA, and the Provincial Government of Davao Occidental to affirm their shared commitment to expanding access to quality technical-vocational education and training opportunities for the people of the province.
Representing TESDA, the program featured Regional Director Dir. Tarhata S. Mapandi, while SPAMAST was represented by College President Dr. Lynette A. Bontia. Also participating in the ceremony was Provincial Director Engr. Alfredo V. Panuelas Jr., alongside TESDA and training center representatives and other invited guests and stakeholders.
The program opened with the registration of guests, followed by the invocation, Philippine National Anthem, and acknowledgment of participants. Engr. Alfredo V. Panuelas Jr. delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the significance of collaborative initiatives in advancing skills training and workforce development.
The highlight of the ceremony was the ceremonial signing of the Deed of Usufruct, followed by the exchange of documents and a ceremonial handshake, symbolizing the commitment of both institutions to the partnership. Dr. Lynette A. Bontia delivered the message of partnership and collaboration, while Dir. Tarhata S. Mapandi conveyed TESDA’s message of commitment and support. Neil D. Estudillo, Center Administrator of the Provincial Training Center – Malita, delivered the closing remarks.
Through this partnership, SPAMAST and TESDA reaffirm their commitment to supporting the development of a skilled, competent, and employment-ready workforce. The establishment and strengthening of training facilities in Malita can help bring technical-vocational education closer to communities, providing learners with greater opportunities to acquire practical competencies relevant to employment, entrepreneurship, and local economic development.
The initiative also reflects the importance of inter-agency cooperation in maximizing institutional resources and facilities for public service. By working together, SPAMAST and TESDA can help create more accessible pathways for lifelong learning, skills enhancement, and inclusive economic participation in Davao Occidental.
The partnership aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, particularly through the promotion of accessible technical-vocational education and lifelong learning opportunities; SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, by supporting skills development, employability, and workforce readiness; SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, through the utilization and development of facilities that support technical training; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by strengthening collaboration between public institutions in pursuit of shared development objectives.
As the ceremony concluded with the photo opportunity, the signing stood as a meaningful expression of institutional cooperation and a shared vision of empowering individuals through education and skills development.
With this milestone, SPAMAST continues to advance its commitment to community-responsive education and public service, working alongside TESDA and other development partners to help build a more skilled, resilient, and productive Davao Occidental.
