Taganito Mining Corporation (TMC), in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Surigao del Norte, celebrated the graduation of 196 trainees under the TESDA Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) Upskilling and Regular Training Programs during a mass graduation ceremony on March 31, 2026, at the TMC Training and Assessment Center.
The TESDA EBET Program is a workplace-based training approach that equips workers and trainees with practical, nationally recognized skills aligned with industry needs.
Under the EBET Upskilling Program, 25 trainees completed the Heavy Equipment Operation (HEO) Rigid On-Highway Dump Truck Drivers Training, while another 25 completed the HEO Hydraulic Excavator Operation Training.
Meanwhile, 146 graduates under the Regular Training Program completed courses in HEO Forklift Operations, Bulldozer Operations, Wheel Loader-Allu Bucket Operations, Defensive Driving for Light Vehicles, and Rigid On-Highway Dump Truck Operations for men and women from the community.
The event was held in partnership with TESDA Surigao del Norte, led by Provincial Director Catalina O. Tacubao, who commended TMC for its strong support of the EBET Program.
“TMC is one of our industry partners in Surigao that quickly responded when the government enacted the EBET law. Even during the pandemic, Taganito continued to prioritize manpower development,” Tacubao said, adding that the company’s efforts reflect its commitment to uplifting both employees and surrounding communities.
The programs also benefited TMC personnel from various departments, including clerks, security guards, nursery aides, and helpers, who sought to upgrade their skills and broaden their career opportunities.
In his message, TMC Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Artemio Valeroso emphasized the company’s vision of growing alongside the community.
“Having stayed in Taganito for more than 30 years, I have seen the community grow alongside TMC. We want the people around us to progress as well through skills development and employment opportunities,” Valeroso said, noting the company’s continuing need for skilled heavy equipment operators.
Graduate Zeezrael Galing, formerly a company service driver, shared that the training inspired him to continue pursuing his dream of becoming an operator despite challenges and age-related limitations, saying that skills development opens doors to better opportunities and personal growth.
Another trainee, Summer May Erazo, a security officer from Surigao City, thanked TMC for extending opportunities to participants beyond Taganito and Claver.
Through its continued partnership with TESDA, TMC remains committed to developing skilled, globally competitive workers while creating opportunities that support community growth and sustainable development.
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