A TOTAL of 25 individuals composed of 53rd Infantry Battalion (53IB) personnel, militiamen and their dependents have enrolled in the Training Induction Program (TIP) for the Agricultural Crops Production National Certificate II (NC II) in Zamboanga del Sur.
The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) formally launched the program on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at the headquarters of the 53IB in Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur to equip personnel and their dependents with practical and sustainable agricultural skills.
Lieutenant Colonel Rolando Vargas Jr., 53IB commander, emphasized the importance of acquiring agricultural skills, especially for those in the military and their families who often reside in rural communities with untapped agricultural potential, such as fertile lands and favorable climate conditions.
The training is expected to span several weeks and will cover core competencies, including planting crops, maintaining crop areas, harvesting, and post-harvest handling, among others.
Vargas encouraged all participants to take the training seriously, as it not only provides them with technical knowledge but also opens up possibilities for entrepreneurship and improved food security.
Vargas said such initiatives reinforce the Army's role not just as protectors of peace, but as catalysts for progress and development within the communities they serve.
He expressed deep gratitude to Tesda for bringing the training directly to the soldiers, militiamen and their dependents, recognizing it as a valuable opportunity to promote self-reliance and long-term livelihood sustainability.
He said the partnership between Tesda and the 53IB represents a shared commitment to community empowerment, post-service preparedness, and holistic soldier development. (SunStar Zamboanga)