Dualtech Center and Lao Foundation reach more towns in Quezon Province

Dualtech, together with advocacy partner Lao Foundation (LFI), visited different towns in Quezon Province. For many years now, LFI has provided support for youth from families engaged in small-scale coconut farming. Quezon province contributes to the local economy through agriculture and fisheries, but its other major edge is in coconut farming.

On the first day of the trip, teams from both organizations visited Lucena City to give a career talk to the group of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Regional Office of Quezon Province. Present at the talk were PCA members and their children who listened to the plan for scholarships and support that will be provided by Dualtech and the LFI. Mr. Okeek Sta. Ana, Manager of Community Relations, explained the school’s course offering. This is Dualtech’s 2-year Electromechanics Technology course, where students learn the basics of electrical, mechanical, and electronics, and afterwards can attain stable employment.

Ms. Cristina Embate-Viray, Head of Operation of LAO Foundation, spoke to convey to PCA members and their children how they will help and support them once they study at Dualtech. She also shared testimonies from students and families who have been helped by the school and LFI.

For the second day, the group visited Tagkawayan to visit the families of members of the Sama-Sama sa Kaunlaran Multi-Purpose Cooperative. During the talk, Dualtech and LFI discussed the support and programs they offer.

For the 3rd and last day of the trip, Dualtech and LFI went to Buenavista, Quezon to talk to Ms. Venus Leorin Cleope, the province’s manager for PESO (Public Employment Service Office). The team also met Ms. Lemia Aguila, the representative of the mayor of the Buenavista LGU.

For the above visit, the school discussed scholarship opportunities for the youth, while LFI talked about sustainable agricultural initiatives. Examples are Coconut Farming Community Initiatives, as well as Education to Employment Initiatives.

The LGU shared their valuable insights too. Among their Senior High School graduates in the past years, a significant 98% do not enter college or pursue further schooling. The main concerns of the local leaders are to prevent their youth from falling into various vices and from teen pregnancy. After viewing the presentations from Dualtech and LFI, the Buenavista LGU affirmed that they are prepared to collaborate on how to help their young people to prepare for a stable future.