27/08/2026
The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), through the Localizing Normalization Implementation (LNI) Program, in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) XII, successfully conducted the Skills Training Orientation for Moro Islamic Liberation Front (M**F) Decommissioned Combatants (DCs) as part of the continuing implementation of the normalization process in South Cotabato.
The orientation activities were conducted on August 25, 2026, at Barangay Lampari, Banga, South Cotabato; August 25, 2026, at Barangay Sumbakil, South Cotabato; and August 27, 2026, at Barangay Bunao, Tupi, South Cotabato. The activity aimed to orient the M**F DC participants on the objectives, processes, schedules, requirements, and expected outcomes of the skills training program, while also preparing them for their participation in the various technical and livelihood-related training courses.
The skills training offerings include Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Carpentry, Business Management/Financial Literacy, Driving, and Organic Agriculture. These training programs are designed to enhance the knowledge, technical competencies, and practical skills of the M**F DCs, providing them with opportunities to develop sustainable sources of income and strengthen their capacity for reintegration into their communities.
The M**F DCs Skills Training Program will be implemented from August to October 2026, with training activities conducted simultaneously in identified areas. Through the program, participants will be provided with hands-on training and competency-based learning aligned with their chosen areas of interest. Qualified participants may also undergo TESDA competency assessment and, upon successfully meeting the required competency standards, may receive the corresponding National Certificate (NC) II or NC I, depending on the qualification and training program undertaken.
The activity was attended and supported by representatives from OPAPRU-LNI, Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office XII β Peace and Development Buong Bansa Mapayapa (DSWD XII-PDBBM), TFDCC, TESDA XII, Barangay Local Government Units (BLGUs), and the participating M**F Decommissioned Combatants. The participation of these partner agencies and local stakeholders demonstrates the collaborative efforts of the government and its partners in supporting the successful implementation of the normalization process and in providing meaningful opportunities for the sustainable reintegration and development of M**F DCs.
