Hinatuan Mining Corporation (HMC), in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and key government and community stakeholders, successfully graduated 74 trainee-scholars under the 2025 General Enterprise-Based Education and Training on Heavy Equipment Operations (GEN EBET-HEO) program.
The initiative focused on developing competencies in rigid on-highway dump truck and hydraulic excavator operations, contributing directly to local employability and workforce readiness.
This milestone reflects HMC’s sustained commitment to human capital development, community empowerment, and inclusive economic growth, reinforcing the company’s approach to responsible mining and shared value creation within its host and neighboring communities.
Strengthening Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships
The completion ceremony was attended by HMC mine site management led by Engr. Francisco J. Arañes Jr., senior vice president, chief operating officer and resident mine manager; Dr. Catalina O. Tacubao, provincial director of TESDA–Surigao del Norte; representatives from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Regional Office XIII; and representatives of the host and neighboring communities (RHNC), headed by Chairperson Janeth B. Navarro.
The program exemplifies effective collaboration among industry, government and communities in addressing skills gaps and enhancing long-term employment opportunities.
Building a Safe, Competent and Responsible Workforce
In his message, Engr. Arañes emphasized that the GEN EBET-HEO program goes beyond technical skills development, highlighting its role in instilling safety consciousness, accountability and professionalism.
“Real progress happens when industry and education work hand in hand to empower Filipino workers. Operating heavy equipment is not just about technical skill — it is about responsibility, discipline and sound decision-making,” he said.
He reiterated HMC’s commitment to embedding a strong safety culture and ethical work values among trainees, underscoring that competent operators play a critical role in operational efficiency and risk reduction.
“Graduation is not the end; it is the beginning of greater responsibility,” he added. “Wherever your careers may take you, be ambassadors of safety, excellence and professionalism.”
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Empowering Communities Through Inclusive Skills Development
Dr. Tacubao highlighted the program’s contribution to inclusive development, noting that HMC’s investment extended beyond training infrastructure to the empowerment of individuals and communities.
“This program demonstrates what can be achieved when industry and communities collaborate. Skills developed with discipline and determination can transform lives and uplift entire communities,” she said.
The program’s inclusivity — evidenced by the participation of women, youth and older learners — reinforces TESDA and HMC’s shared commitment to equitable access to skills development and lifelong learning. She concluded by echoing TESDA’s guiding principle: “Basta’t sama-sama, sa TESDA kayang-kaya.”
Supporting Sustainable Development and Gender Inclusion
Representing the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Regional Office XIII, Ms. Estephanie Odchimar commended the graduates and recognized the program’s alignment with sustainable development principles, particularly in promoting gender equality and livelihood opportunities.
She emphasized that skills training initiatives such as GEN EBET-HEO contribute to community resilience, workforce sustainability and responsible resource development, supported by strong institutional partnerships.
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Community Engagement and Shared Value Creation
On behalf of the host and neighboring communities, RHNC Chairperson Janeth B. Navarro expressed appreciation for HMC’s continued support of capacity-building initiatives, acknowledging the program’s positive impact on local employment prospects and community development.
Outcomes and Beneficiary Impact
Speaking for the graduates, Mr. Kenneth Paul A. Gemparo, a rigid on-highway dump truck NC II graduate, shared how the program enhanced not only their technical competencies but also their confidence and professional values.
“Beyond skills, we gained discipline, safety awareness and hope for a better future. This opportunity has prepared us for meaningful employment and long-term growth,” he said.
Alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The GEN EBET-HEO program directly supports HMC’s sustainability framework and contributes to the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:
- SDG 4 – Quality Education: Providing industry-aligned technical and vocational training
- SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth: Enhancing employability and workforce readiness
- SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Strengthening collaboration among industry, government and communities
Commitment Moving Forward
Through initiatives such as GEN EBET-HEO, HMC reaffirms its commitment to responsible operations, inclusive growth and long-term community development.
HMC will continue to invest in skills development programs that build local capacity, promote safe and ethical work practices, and create sustainable livelihoods aligned with its environmental, social and governance (ESG) objectives.
