Ilocos Norte sets training programs to boost work

By Blessing Angel V. Agliam

LAOAG CITY -- The provincial government of Ilocos Norte, through its Public Employment Service Office (PESO), is now working with agencies to provide skills development trainings to help residents find alternative livelihoods amidst the pandemic.
    PESO, in collaboration with the Dept. of Science and Technology (DOST), held a “Malunggay and squash product processing training” at the Divine Word College of Laoag on April 16 with nearly 40 participants.
    “Our goal is to increase employment opportunities to displaced workers and job seekers by providing skills development trainings,” PESO manager Lizette B. Atuan said.
    “In our recent program, malunggay and squash served as our resources because of the abundance and ease of care in our backyard. Our participants learned how to make malunggay and squash pastillas, banana-squash bread, and squash doughnuts. With these, they can make their own products and start a small business,” she said.
    Under its partnership with DOST and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, PESO is promoting livelihood skills training programs.
    Since the start of the pandemic, the office conducted five trainings: “Starter kit program” for micro, small, and medium businesses, which benefited vulcanizing, computer, tailoring, upholstery, and carwash shops; “IN na Negosyo sa Kariton” for displaced overseas Filipino workers to include trainings on baking, cooking and computer servicing.
    “We are just waiting for the schedule from the regional office,” Atuan added.
    Interested participants of PESO livelihood skills training may visit their office at the provincial capitol building or message the rovincial PESO Ilocos Norte Facebook Page.