ANGELES CITY — The Specialized Training and Employment Program for Underprivileged Persons (STEP UP) marked its 10th anniversary recently with the completion of high-speed sewing training for Metro Clark residents.
A joint project of the Clark Development Corp., Luenthai Group Phils., and the City College of Angeles, STEP UP aims to empower with skills training for better job prospects the underprivileged residents of areas contiguous to the Clark freeport. Themed “Celebrating 10 Years of Excellence,” the culminating ceremony was held at the CCA Multi-purpose Hall with CDC president and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera, former CCA OIC-president Dr. Francisco Villanueva, Jr., current CCA OIC Dr. Carolina Sarmiento, and Luenthai vice president for human resources and communications Leo Benitez as principal guests.
A total of 40 trainees completed the program, per report of CDC’s Corporate Social Responsibility and Placement Division.
In her message, Devanadera commended the graduates for their dedication and highlighted the program’s objective of providing essential skills and job opportunities. She emphasized its alignment with the “town and gown” approach, which bridges industry needs with academic training.
“This is exactly what we need to have, and it’s a partnership between industries and academic institutions so that we will be able to provide talents that are needed by the industry,” she said.
The graduates expressed gratitude for the program and look forward to the job opportunities it provides.
“Natutuwa at nagpapasalamat ako sa training, pagkatapos nito, magagamit ko na ang aking natutunan sa pag-a apply ng trabaho,” said Jessica Moscoso.
At 55, Marciano Dongallo saw age as no hindrance from acquiring skills that enhance his job prospects. “Talagang nakakatulong ang training, lalo na sa mga nangangailangan ng trabaho.”
Since its launch in 2014, STEP UP has graduated 167 individuals who secured jobs within the freeport or started their own businesses. STEP UP is part of the CDC’s CSR program, covering health, education, livelihood, and partnerships.
Also present during the event were Ma. Zoraida Camello, special assistant to the CDC P/CEO; Rommel Narciso, CDC assistant vice president for external affairs; Astrud Aguinaldo, CDC communications division manager; Chit Manlapaz, vice president for corporate affairs and community relations, and Kathleen Maniti, human resources manager, both of Luenthai. CDC-PR
