TESDA, DPWH team up to train laborers

AMemorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed by Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Secretary Isidro Lapeña and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Mark Villar on Monday for the on-site training of construction workers.

Last month, Lapeña and Villar discussed a collaboration to ensure the supply of manpower for the

“Build, Build, Build” infrastructure projects of the administration.

Following that meeting and the previous Memoranda of Agreement (MOAs) in February 2006 and 2019, the two agencies has joined up with the Philippine Constructors Association Inc. (PCA) and local government units (LGUs) to develop and implement free skills training in DPWH sites.

The MOU lays down the tasks and obligations of the two parties in implementing the Project-based On-site Learning of Skilled Construction Professionals (PPOL SCoP). The training will also help address the learning gaps based on the competency standards required by construction companies.

PPOL SCoP is also in accordance with the Philippine Construction Industry Roadmap launched last March 28.

TESDA will take charge of developing training regulations and implementing the courses in the sites. It will also facilitate the assessment with accredited trainers for the construction companies and provide scholarship grants to workers who want to avail of the training. Certificates will be issued to trainees who finish the course.

DPWH will coordinate with the construction sites and encourage them to allow the implementation of the PPOL SCoP. It will also partner with the LGUs in identifying the bona fide residents that are required to be hired by construction companies in compliance with RA 6685.

It will also help TESDA develop the learning materials for the training courses.