06/08/2026
As part of its continuing commitment to promote inclusive livelihood opportunities and strengthen the competitiveness of marginalized sectors, the Department of Trade and Industry – Zamboanga City Office (DTI-ZCO), in partnership with the Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center III (AVRC III), successfully conducted the Skills Training on Master Cutting from July 20 to August 4, 2026, at the AVRC III Training Center.
The skills training benefited 13 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and three (3) AVRC III staff members, equipping them with essential knowledge and practical skills in master cutting—a fundamental competency in garment production that enhances precision, efficiency, and product quality.
The activity forms part of DTI-ZCO's continuing efforts to develop industry-ready skills among PWDs, enabling them to participate more actively in livelihood opportunities, entrepreneurship, and employment within the garments and creative industries.
The opening program commenced with welcome remarks from Dr. Rienne Misuarez, who emphasized the importance of collaborative initiatives that empower PWDs through skills development and promote greater inclusion in economic activities.
DTI-ZCO Provincial Director Grace DC. Aduca delivered an inspirational message, encouraging the participants to maximize the opportunity to learn and transform their newly acquired skills into sustainable sources of income. She underscored DTI's commitment to creating an inclusive business environment where every individual, regardless of ability, has access to opportunities for growth and economic participation.
The technical training was facilitated by Ms. Pilar L. Laping, a TESDA-accredited Trainer and Assessor, who guided participants through comprehensive discussions and hands-on exercises on proper pattern interpretation, accurate fabric layout, measurement techniques, and master cutting methods. Throughout the training, participants demonstrated enthusiasm, dedication, and a strong willingness to learn, successfully applying the techniques introduced during the sessions.
More importantly, the program empowered the 13 participating PWDs by providing them with practical competencies that can open doors to employment, self-employment, and enterprise development in the garments sector. The training also strengthened their confidence, enhanced their productivity, and reinforced their potential to contribute meaningfully to the local economy.
The program concluded with a closing message from Ms. Arlindela Baes-Enriquez, Rehabilitation Sheltered Workshop Coordinator, who commended the participants for their perseverance and active engagement throughout the training. She highlighted the significance of continuous capacity-building initiatives in improving the lives of PWDs and expressed gratitude to DTI-ZCO, TESDA, and all partners for making the activity possible.
Through initiatives such as the Skills Training on Master Cutting, DTI-ZCO continues to champion inclusive economic development by providing marginalized sectors with opportunities to acquire marketable skills, enhance their employability, and pursue sustainable livelihood ventures in line with the agency's commitment to empowering Filipino entrepreneurs and workers.
