TESDA launches scholarship program for jeepney drivers in Davao Region

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A scholarship program for jeepney drivers and their dependents was launched in Davao Region in a bid to reach out to more beneficiaries and stakeholders, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) announced.

TESDA and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) launched the Tsuper Iskolar program, which is intended for jeepney drivers, their dependents, and other stakeholders.

According to TESDA Secretary Isidro Lapeña , the Tsuper Iskolar program under the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) inked on December 11 last year by the two agencies provides for the training and social assistance for stakeholders as identified under the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP).

The Tsuper Iskolar in Davao caters to a more diverse audience which includes 200 rebel returnees and indigenous peoples as among the 700 scholar-beneficiaries.

The rebel returnees were identified by the 3rd, 6th, and 89th Infantry Battalion while the drivers, operators and dependents were identified by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

Those who may avail of the scholarship program are PUV operators and drivers that may be affected by the PUVMP; stakeholders who opt to voluntarily exit the transport industry; stakeholders who want to continue in the transport industry; new stakeholders in the industry; and their family members/ dependents.

The scholarship ensures each beneficiary will get training support fund to cover food and transportation allowance equivalent to P350 per training day attended for a maximum of 35 days.

Some of the free skills training courses offered are on driving, automotive servicing, automotive engine rebuilding, among others.