MANILA, Philippines – The first batch of scholars enrolled in the Auto Mechanic Training Center in Leyte has cleared the first stage of the course being administered by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). Isuzu Motors Limited chairman Yoshinori Ida flew in from Japan to lead the awarding ceremonies held at the Isuzu-sponsored TESDA facility in Tacloban.
Ida was joined by TESDA Regional Director Juan Sabulao, Jr. and Plan Philippines Country Director Michael Diamond in awarding the top performers of the program’s maiden batch.
Topping the Isuzu practical exam was Jumar Verano, with a score of 87 percent. Jonathan Mangubat bested the group in the Isuzu written exam with 82 percent and was also the second placer overall (practical and written), with an average of 82 percent. The first placer overall was Marilou Cabarles (83 percent), while Jonnalyn Navarrosa finished third (81 percent).
All 30 scholars in the first batch passed the first phase (NC1) of the course and are now preparing to move on to the next stage (NC2). Twenty-five modules make up the second curriculum, including workplace communication, team environment, career professionalism, occupational health and safety, shop maintenance, and the servicing of various vehicle components.
Now that the first batch has completed the first phase of training, Isuzu is welcoming a second batch of another 30 scholars, but this time composed of 16 girls and 14 boys coming from eastern and western Samar, Camotes Island, Occidental Mindoro, Southern Leyte and Masbate. The fact that female students will now outnumber the boys indicates that automotive-mechanic training has a growing appeal even to a demographic previously thought unfit to participate in such a program.
The incoming batch now brings to 60 the total of Isuzu scholars, with the first 30 scholars scheduled to graduate in October 2010.
“I am very happy that all 30 scholars from the first batch have passed the NC1 level,” said Chairman Ida. “This shows that the youth are very skilled and that they only need our support and guidance. Isuzu believes they are the future of the automotive industry, and that the prosperity of their country greatly depends upon them. That’s the reason why we are helping them.”