Negros Occ: The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), in collaboration with the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos (UNO-R), has initiated the nation's first formal training program focused on sugarcane production.

According to Philippines News Agency, TESDA Director General Jose Francisco Benitez announced that an initial cohort of 25 trainees will participate in a four-month comprehensive course on Sugarcane Production NC (National Certificate) Level II. This program is the first of its kind in the country, with Negros chosen as the pilot location for the Sugarcane Production NC II TESDA training initiative.

Benitez highlighted that the program is designed to provide trainees with practical experience in all aspects of sugarcane farming, from field preparation to post-production processes. This training aims to furnish local workers with essential technical skills that will enhance productivity and sustainability within the Negros sugar industry, thereby fortifying the region's sugarcane production capabilities for the future.

The selected trainees hail from five participating local government units, including Victorias City, Silay City, and the municipalities of E.B. Magalona, La Castellana, and Murcia. They are recipients of TESDA scholarships offered through UNO-R's Special Technological and Educational Programs.