TESDA to train out-of-school youth in masonry

MANILA, Philippines - The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) will train thousands of out-of-school youth in masonry to prepare them for employment in the construction industry.

The agency will conduct the training jointly with Holcim, a large cement producer, the Philippine Constructors Association (PCA), and the Association of Construction and Informal Workers (ACIW).

Former party-list congressman and TESDA chief Joel Villanueva signed a memorandum of agreement with representatives of his agency’s training program partners.

Villanueva said the program would initially target 2,000 out-of-school youth.

“With the construction industry on a steady rise, the government should be prepared to supply the continuous need of the sector for skilled masons,” he said.

Villanueva said the government continues to look at the construction industry as a major driver of economic growth.

“In the past, workers just needed pick and shovel. Recent developments in technology, however, necessitate that our masons upgrade their skills,” he added.

According to the TESDA chief, the training in masonry will cover basic safety, basic bonds and joints, masonry works, masonry ties and reinforcement, masonry tools and equipment, concrete materials, clay masonry materials, stone masonry, blueprint specification reading, wall plastering, floor finishes, form design, concrete finish reinforcement, and repairs and corrections.