In Carasi, Ilocos Norte, the Motorcyle Repair  Training gained appreciation from the 20 Out-of-School-Youth (OSY)  who already experienced earning minimum amount from the ‘stocked’ motorcycles that they repair.

These youth are among the 4,625 youth in Region 1 who accessed the Cash for Training Program of DSWD in partnership with the Technical Skills Development Authority (TESDA) that provided accredited trainers region wide. As said, the motorcycle repair has seen its good prospect to start a Motor Repair Shop in the locality  that will cater to the many motorcycles of the majority of the residents rather than going to the heart of Laoag City (at most 3 hour-travel) for repair.

According to Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer (MSWDO) Leonor Reyes, solo motors are the main means of transportation in this town, which are often over-used and sometimes junked because there are no available motor shops.

According to MSWDO Reyes, the LGU-Carasi is also planning to provide augmentation for the employment facilitation of these youth.

According to TESDA -accredited trainer Ronald Mateo, the youth are trainable with shown interest and eagerness to learn, although at first they do not want their hands to get dirty.

Cash for Training Program

 

DSWD Regional Director Marcelo Nicomedes J. Castillo mentioned that  the  Cash for  Training Program is  an  enabling experience for the youth to venture on various trades. This is also in preparation for their  eventual gainful occupation or at least earn a minimum to augment  their families’ income.

Each trainee was alloted Php 20,000.00 with particulars of scholarship voucher (Php 7,000.00); Tool Kit (Php 6,200.00); and transportation expenses/livelihood fund (Php 6,800.00). Transportation expense is given at the end of the training.

The Local Government Units identified the participating youth according to their interest and poor economic condition.

(by: Iryn D. Cubangbang, Regional Information Officer)