"IMPARTING the knowledge and skills to the people in Gumitan is really heartwarming."

The passion of an individual to serve remains in the heart no matter the challenges and the difficulties.

This was proven by a group of skills trainer and assessor of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) in Davao Region.

Last July, the group led by Arlyn Basquez conducted a training together with haircutting trainer Joseph Palen, manicure and pedicure trainer Rose Arcillas, and Hilot Wellness Massage trainer Marcela Rondina.

Among their first beneficiaries were 75 residents of Barangay Gumitan, Marilog District, Davao City.

Also with them in the group were Tesda Training Focal JolAtablanco and Juna Arraez, in partnership with the 16th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.

"Perting layua ma'am, lisod kaayo ang dalan, halos 5 ka oras ang biyahe (The road going to the place was difficult. We travelled for almost five hours)," said Basquez in a Facebook interview with Superbalita.

According to Basquez, who trains haircutting, aside from the hardship they experience in reaching the place, they also felt satisfaction and happiness upon arrival as they were able to impart knowledge to the residents.

"Lipay kaayo mi ma'am nga naabot mi didto. (We are very glad to have reached that place)," Basquez said.

Beyond the difficult and very muddy road, they needed to cross a stream just to reach the place.

"Kahit gaano kahirap, makin basta maabot ka lamang. Imparting the knowledge and skills to the people in Gumitan is really heartwarming. Thank you Tesda for this wonderful experience (No matter how difficult, we will strive to reach the place)," said Basquez on her Facebook post.

After the two-day training that they conducted, 75 Lumad were able to graduate from their short course.

The group was able to share new knowledge to the Lumad who will hopefully use these skills for their own livelihood.