Empowering Communities Through Skills and Opportunity in San Juan

In Brgy. Dayanog, opportunity is being rebuilt—one skill at a time.

Through the initiative “Enhancing Livelihood Through Food and Beverage Service Skills,” the Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education (BTLED) Department continues to extend its reach beyond the classroom, addressing one of the community’s pressing needs: unemployment.

Designed as a five-month skills enhancement training program, the project equips residents with practical competencies in food and beverage service—opening doors to employment and sustainable livelihood. More than just training, it is a pathway toward empowerment.

“We aim to equip individuals with skills that can open doors to employment,” shares Ryan C. Negros, Assistant Professor I and the project’s Activity Leader.

The initiative draws inspiration from the goal of helping participants achieve TESDA National Certification, a credential that strengthens their qualifications and competitiveness in the workforce. For many residents, this represents not just a certificate, but a chance to improve their quality of life.

Since its implementation, the program has already contributed to creating job opportunities among its beneficiaries. By aligning skills training with real-world demands, the project ensures that learning translates into tangible outcomes.

Like many community-based initiatives, the team encountered challenges—particularly in managing time within the program’s duration. However, through careful planning and commitment, these hurdles were addressed without losing sight of the project’s mission.

Beyond employment, the initiative also supports broader community development. By promoting food and beverage service skills, it encourages local participation in tourism and small enterprise—further strengthening the economic potential of Brgy. Dayanog.

At the heart of the project is a belief in purposeful service—one that reflects the values of dedication, patience, and genuine care for others.

For Sir Ryan, whose work as an educator is deeply rooted in student-centered learning, the project is a natural extension of his philosophy. “Embrace your duties and responsibilities not only by your name, but by the heart,” he emphasizes.

Looking ahead, the initiative aims to guide more residents toward obtaining TESDA National Certification, ensuring that the impact continues to grow and reach more members of the community.

In every training session conducted and every life touched, the project stands as a testament to what education can achieve when it goes beyond the classroom—transforming knowledge into opportunity, and service into lasting change.