Cayetanos deliver aid to Lumban, Laguna communities

 

PRESS RELEASE

June 13, 2024

“Kung mayroon pong mga turista, mayroon po kaming pinagtitindahan. Pero kapag wala po, wala rin pong tinda. Kaya napakalaking tulong po nitong tulong nila Senator Alan at Senator Pia Cayetano dahil magagamit ko ito para sa pang-tuition fee ng aking anak.”

These were the heartfelt words of Reysie delos Reyes Cacalda, an espasol vendor from Lumban, Laguna as she expressed gratitude for the assistance from the sibling senators which will significantly contribute to a higher cause—funding her child’s education.

“Makakapagpa-graduate na po ako ng aking anak na [may kursong] Civil Engineering,” she added joyfully.

Cavalda was one of the 1,000 beneficiaries from the partnership between the senators and the Department of Social Welfare and Development's (DSWD) Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program. This partnership brought support to the Municipality of Lumban in the Province of Laguna.

On June 11, 2024, the senators’ offices reached out to community workers, women, and small business owners in Lumban to provide assistance for their needs.

The distribution was organized in coordination with Lumban Vice Mayor Belen Raga, who expressed her gratitude to the senators on behalf of the beneficiaries.

“Ako po ay lubos na nagpapasalamat sa tulong na dinala nila sa bayan ng Lumban. Sobrang blessing po ito para sa aming bayan at nawa po ay ibalik ito ng siksik, liglig ni Lord sa inyo,” she said.

The activity also featured a Medical Assistance Desk to help individuals with medical expenses, covering hospital bills, medications, laboratory tests, and other diagnostic procedures.

These initiatives are part of the Cayetanos’ ongoing efforts to support marginalized communities across the country. While the Senate is on a session break, their offices remain active, visiting various areas to bring aid closer to those in need.

They closely collaborate with government agencies and local units to ensure that Filipinos receive the necessary assistance. ###bansa sa isa't isa, lalo na sa mga panahon ng pangangailangan.

Whatever the problems are, [such as] economics, transportation, [and] the pandemic, we find a way to be relevant to each other,” wika niya.

“When you need us, we will be there for you, and when we need you, you’re always there for us,” dagdag niya.

Sa pagtatapos ng kanyang talumpati, pinasalamatan ni Cayetano si Paul Chan Mo-po, ang Financial Secretary ng Hong Kong, at nanawagan ng patuloy na pakikipagtulungan upang mapanatili ang matatag na relasyon ng dalawang rehiyon.

“Thank you for the hospitality and the kindness you’re showing the Filipino people,” wika niya.

“As you celebrate with us, you know the world is changing quite fast, but as long as we continue to be reliable, we continue to be relevant, and we continue to be resilient members of one family, we will continue our record,” dagdag niya. ###

Senators Alan and Pia aid over a thousand Cebuanos in two-day support initiative

 

PRESS RELEASE

June 9, 2024

 Senators Alan and Pia aid over a thousand Cebuanos in two-day support initiative

The path to recovery from difficult situations became clearer for more than a thousand Cebuanos when the offices of Senators Alan Peter and Pia Cayetano provided support to residents on June 5 and 6, 2024.

Barangay Health Workers (BHW), Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS), Day Care Workers (DCW), and women’s group leaders in Catmon and Mandaue were the primary beneficiaries during the two-day support initiative.

On June 5, 2024, the Cayetano siblings' offices visited Catmon to assist a total of 500 individuals to bolster their income.

“This will help them buy rice, ayun talaga ang kailangan nila dito,” former Vice Mayor Earl Oyas said when asked where the beneficiaries will use the assistance given.

“Makakatulong din ito pambili ng school materials for their kids, kaya salamat po talaga,” he added.

The aid can also be utilized to cover daily expenses and meet the essential needs of the beneficiaries, providing them with crucial financial support.

Along with Oyas, former Mayor and Incumbent Councilor Dan Jusay and Barangay Captain Karem Joromo played important roles to ensure that the residents of Catmon receive the much-needed support.

On the second day, June 6, 2024, 512 residents of Mandaue received aid from the offices of the sibling senators.

During this visit, the offices of the sibling senators also met with women's groups from an earlier event held by Senator Pia on March 7, 2024 in Cebu.

The success of the Mandaue event was made possible through the efforts of local government units and Representative Lolypop Ouano-Dizon.

The two-day program in Catmon and Mandaue was a partnership between the Cayetano siblings and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.

AICS aims to assist individuals facing difficult circumstances by providing a range of support services tailored to their specific needs. This includes educational aid, food, transportation, medical support, burial services, and financial help.

Dedicated to their advocacies, the Cayetano siblings strive to support Filipinos in need, helping them recover from challenging situations.###

Cayetanos’ livelihood programs bring opportunities to Sultan Kudarat towns

 

PRESS RELEASE

June 8, 2024

More opportunities reached distant municipalities of Sultan Kudarat when the offices of Senators Alan Peter and Pia Cayetano provided livelihood programs to residents on June 3 and 4, 2024.

During the two-day program, the senators' offices visited Isulan and Lebak, where 300 individuals received assistance to enhance their skills and secure permanent employment to boost their incomes.

The senators’ offices visited Isulan on June 3 and delivered aid to 150 individuals, including electricians, vendors, and members of the LGBTQ community. The assistance can help the beneficiaries start their own small businesses, ensuring more financial stability.

The event's success in Isulan was supported by the mayor's office, Officer-in-Charge Atty. Arnold Armada, Acting Vice Mayor Carlo Apiado, Assistant Secretary Florentino Loyola Jr., Councilors Arjen Pallasigue and Ryan Dumaran, Sangguniang Kabataan Federation President Weljun Fuscablo, and Ailene Loctogan from the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO).

On June 4, the Cayetano siblings’ offices visited Lebak, where 150 beneficiaries, including solo parents, women, and farmers, were given support.

The assistance can be used to cover the daily expenses and meet the essential needs of the recipients, providing them with much-needed financial relief.

The success of the activity in Lebak was achieved with the help of Mayor Frederick Celestial, Regional Executive Assistant Evelyn Pinongcos, Noraidah Busran from the DSWD, and Councilor Edwin Besana.

The two-day program in Isulan and Lebak was a partnership between the Cayetano siblings and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through its Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP).

SLP aims to help individuals establish micro-businesses for stable income or undergo skills training to secure employment.

Beneficiaries receive either seed capital to start their own businesses or funds for skills training to expand job opportunities.

This activity in Sultan Kudarat demonstrates the Cayetano siblings' commitment to reaching even the most distant municipalities in the country, providing livelihood programs to uplift the income and opportunities of Filipinos.###

Patients in Davao receive medical assistance from the Cayetanos

PRESS RELEASE

May 31, 2024

 Mel Ramos, a resident of Davao City, has been facing a battle trying to cover his wife’s medical expenses due to a troublesome lump on her nose. Struggling with limited resources and barely making ends meet, Ramos couldn't hide his gratitude after receiving much-needed medical assistance from Senators Alan Peter and Pia Cayetano earlier this week.

“Malaking tulong po ito sa aming mga nangangailangan. Pang dagdag po ito sa bill namin sa ospital,” Ramos said.

“Sana po marami pang ganito sa Mindanao dahil kami po ay napag-iiwanan na ng assistance,” he added.

 The sibling senators extended help to a total of 628 patients at the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) in Davao City, including cancer patients, those suffering from respiratory diseases, and pregnant women.

The two-day “Tulong-Medikal Caravan” held on May 27 to 28, 2024, was conducted in coordination with the Department of Health (DOH) under the Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients (MAIFIP) Program, and in partnership with SPMC led by its head of clinics Dr. Fitzgerald Arancel and Medical Center Chief Dr. Ricardo Audan. 

“The arrival of this medical caravan is a blessing for our patients. Our indigent patients need the assistance,” Dr. Arancel said.

“Marami kaming pasyente dito na hirap na makabayad. We can never thank you enough,” he added.

Marking its 26th caravan this year, the Tulong-Medikal caravan also reached beneficiaries from other areas like Cotabato, Kidapawan, Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Sur, and General Santos.

Many of the beneficiaries were receiving treatment for chronic kidney disease, hypertension, orthopedic-related issues, and animal bites. 

They were provided with a range of free medical services such as check-ups, laboratory tests, dialysis, and various medical procedures. Additionally, the program helped them ease their medical expenses.

The Cayetanos’ Tulong-Medikal caravan sets up medical help desks at different hospitals nationwide to assist underprivileged Filipinos with their medical expenses. 

As healthcare advocates, the Tulong-Medikal caravan stands as one of the senators’ many initiatives aimed at providing accessible and quality healthcare for all Filipinos, ensuring that no one is left behind in their time of need.###

Cayetano to Taguigeños: Let’s push each other up, let’s push the Philippines up!

 

PRESS RELEASE

“Let’s push Taguig up, let’s push each other up, let’s push the Philippines up!”

This was Senator Alan Peter Cayetano's message to the candidates and the audience during the Mutya ng Taguig 2024 coronation night on May 25, 2024.

Aligned with this year’s theme, "Taguigueña, Panalo Ka" which honors the exceptional qualities of the women of Taguig, Cayetano emphasized that the candidates must be good role models and representatives of the city.

He encouraged the candidates to use their platforms to positively influence people, telling them to be good ambassadors and influencers.

“You don’t need to have the name ‘influencer’ or have a million followers to be an influencer. You are already influencers; you don’t have to be Ms. Taguig to be one,” he said.

The independent senator also shared how the saying “Whatever you celebrate, you elevate,” by preacher and motivational speaker Myles Munroe, has influenced his perspective.

“This means that when you’re in the habit of pushing something up, then expect someone to also push you up. And expect that someone will push you up. Sooner or later, lahat kayo naitataas,” he said.

“So when we celebrate four hundred and thirty seven years of Taguig, itinataas natin ito. When we celebrate Ms. Taguig later on, itinataas natin siya. At siya naman ay itataas niya ang Taguig,” he added.

Cayetano concluded his message by urging all Taguigeños to embrace this practice for the continued upward trajectory of the city and ultimately the entire country.

“Let’s push Taguig up, let’s push each other up, let’s push the Philippines up! Para tunay na magiging siksik, liglig, at umaapaw ang bayan ng Pilipinas,” he said. ###

Cayetano revolutionizes digital landscape with Konektadong Pinoy Act

PRESS RELEASE

May 24, 2024

Cayetano revolutionizes digital landscape with Konektadong Pinoy Act

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano took a significant step in bolstering the country's digital infrastructure and enhancing connectivity for all Filipinos after the Konektadong Pinoy Act was formally filed in the Senate as a committee report on Wednesday.

Senate Bill Number 2699, submitted jointly with the Committees on Public Services and Finance, on May 22, 2024, seeks to overhaul the nation's outdated telecommunications regulatory framework and align it with the requirements of the digital age.

Cayetano, who chairs the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, believes that by modernizing the country’s telecommunications landscape, the bill will address the barriers in connectivity like the longstanding issues on affordability, speed, and accessibility.

"We can no longer afford to be in the dark ages when it comes to the Internet and its accessibility to each and every Filipino,” he said.

Cayetano is joined by co-authors Senators Marcos, Gatchalian, Poe, Revilla Jr., Zubiri, Villanueva, Tulfo, Lapid, Estrada, and Legarda, to establish a comprehensive connectivity framework in the country.

The bill proposes four key reforms to ensure more reliable and affordable internet connectivity for everyone.

It aims to simplify the process for telecom companies to get approval, removing the need for a legislative franchise. This change is intended to increase competition, reduce costs, and improve service quality.

Additionally, the bill focuses on managing the radio spectrum more efficiently to enhance service quality and expand coverage.

The legislation also requires telecom companies to share infrastructure, which will lower operational costs and make it easier for new companies to enter the market, especially in areas that currently have little or no service.

Lastly, the Konektadong Pinoy Act sets performance standards to ensure the bill's effective implementation and protect the interests of Filipino consumers.

Cayetano envisions that government services will become more accessible to every Filipino with improved internet access streamlining bureaucratic procedures and enabling easier access to public information.

“The use of present technology affords the government the opportunity to bring itself and its services closer to the people,” he said.

The Konektadong Pinoy Act is slated for deliberation in Senate sessions. With the backing of government economic development agencies such as the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), this bill represents a significant stride toward a more connected and empowered Philippines through affordable and reliable internet access.

With the Senate committee report filed, Filipinos can anticipate internet services that are both reasonably priced and of exceptional quality, particularly in unserved and underserved areas.

“We therefore must modernize our digital infrastructure to ensure that all Filipinos have access to, and the use of, affordable, quality, and up-to-date information and communication technologies,” Cayetano said.###

Cayetano to lead Senate committees on trade, higher education

 

PRESS RELEASE

PRESS RELEASE

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano was elected as chair of two influential committees on Wednesday: the Committee on Trade, Commerce, and Entrepreneurship and the Committee on Higher, Technical, and Vocational Education.

This as the Senate reshuffled its leadership before the sine die adjournment of its second regular session following the assumption of Senator Francis Escudero as Senate President on Monday.

As the new chair of the Committee on Trade, Commerce, and Entrepreneurship, Cayetano will oversee matters crucial to both domestic and international trade.

His responsibilities will include oversight of private corporations, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and the regulation of entrepreneurial practices. Additionally, Cayetano will focus on quality control and consumer protection.

Cayetano's leadership also extends to the Committee on Higher, Technical, and Vocational Education.

In this committee, Cayetano will address issues directly related to post-secondary and tertiary education, technical education, distance learning, and vocational training. His agenda includes enhancing the welfare of teachers and students by managing scholarships, grants, and incentives.

Further solidifying his influence, Cayetano nominated Senator Francis Tolentino, the newly appointed majority leader, to chair the Committee on Ethics and Privileges. Tolentino will ensure the reputation of the Senate and its members.

These recent changes in committee leadership add to the two committees which Cayetano currently chairs, the Committee on Accounts and the Committee on Science and Technology.

With Cayetano's extensive experience and dedication, the independent senator is poised to address issues effectively and drive legislative advancements in trade, education, and government enterprises.###

Cayetano to Taguig youth leaders: Enable people to do what is right

Leaders do not just tell people what is wrong, they also enable them to do what is right.

This was Senator Alan Peter Cayetano’s encouragement to Sanggunian ng Kabataan (SK) Chairpersons of Taguig who gathered on Thursday night for dinner and fellowship with leaders of the city.

Focusing on principles, Cayetano urged the young leaders to stick to what they know is right in order to serve their constituents well.

“Why principles? We can debate on opinion, we can debate religion, but we cannot debate on principles. As leaders, we cannot only tell people kung ano ang mali, we have to provide them kung ano yung tama,” he said.

The gathering, held in Barangay Hagonoy, was attended by City of Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano along with barangay chairpersons from the first and second districts as well as representatives from the EMBO barangays.

The senator called on the youth in attendance to practice three principles: victory, vision, and value. Starting with victory, he stressed the importance of defining success on one's own terms.

“You cannot have victory kung wala kang parameter, sukatan, o measurement of what victory is,” he said.

Transitioning to the principle of vision, Cayetano pointed out the vital connection between a clear vision and the attainment of victory and success.

“When you have a vision, lilinaw sa inyo y’ung victory at saka success,” he said.

“You might not be confident about yourself, but when you’re confident about your vision, when you value yourself, other people will see that,” he added.

Drawing from his own faith, Cayetano then talked about recognizing the inherent value of every person, reminding the young leaders of their significance in the eyes of God.

He also encouraged them to embrace their worth and treat others with respect and kindness, reminding them that Jesus gave His life for everyone because He values each and every person.

“If you think you’re worthless, think twice. God already said, ‘You are worth dying for,’” he said.

Eyeing to continue the engagement with the young leaders, Cayetano invited them to monthly talks on principles as an avenue to foster leadership development and community service.

He also left the young leaders with a call to action, urging them to lead with purpose, courage, and dedication to serving their community, guided by the grace of the Lord. ###

Cayetano joins support for BEZA bill, will explain reservations

 

PRESS RELEASE

March 18, 2024

 Cayetano joins support for BEZA bill, will explain reservations

 Senator Alan Peter Cayetano joined the chamber on Monday in showing support to the creation of the Bulacan Special Economic Zone and Freeport Act (BEZA), a measure that seeks to establish a special ecozone to host the new airport being built in Bulacan, albeit with reservations.

This after the Senate passed on third reading Senate Bill No. 2572 or the BEZA Bill on March 18, 2024 with 22 affirmative votes, zero negative votes, and zero abstentions.

Cayetano voted yes to the measure but said he will submit an explanation of his reservation.

Last week, he took to the floor to ask a number of clarificatory questions to Senator Grace Poe, sponsor of the Bulacan Ecozone bill.

Top of his inquiry was on the importance of having comprehensive studies and cost-benefit analyses provided by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).

"I want Bulacan to develop… Ang simpleng tanong ko lang, kung walang study na scientific, [ibig sabihin] nanghuhula lang tayo. Ang problema ng Pilipinas, marami tayong shortcuts," the independent senator said during the plenary session on Wednesday, March 13, 2024.

Cayetano said the measure cannot assert that the Bulacan Ecozone will benefit the country without a proper study.

“I'm really curious and excited for Bulacan to have a super economic zone. On the other hand, it's the first time na y’ung buong province will be part of an economic zone so I'm a little bit concerned about the feasibility and how it will work," he explained.

Other topics that Cayetano also touched on concerned the boundary limitations of the ecozone, a balanced composition of the BEZA board, land conversions being conducted through law, and the importance of BEZA being gambling-free.

The discussion took almost three hours. Senator Francis Escudero, who joined the back and forth with Senators Poe and Cayetano, conveyed his appreciation to Cayetano at the end of their discussion.

“My sincere thanks and appreciation to the gentleman from Taguig and Pateros for his genuine concern in protecting the Filipino people and our country in preventing abuse and learning from the experiences of the past. I thank him as well because I learned a lot,” Escudero said in his closing statement on the bill last March 13, 2024.

On Monday, March 18, after the measure’s passage on the floor, Senator Grace Poe and Majority Leader Senator Joel Villanueva thanked Cayetano for his invaluable contribution in refining the measure.

“I would like to convey my gratitude to Senators Escudero, Gatchalian, and Cayetano. Special mention to Senator Cayetano for refining the bill in making sure that we read the bill not just once, twice, or three times, and adhered to many constitutional provisions,” Poe said as bill sponsor on Monday afternoon.

Villanueva, who hails from Bulacan, also thanked Cayetano for “making this bill even more responsive to the needs of our constituents.” ###

Cayetanos deliver essential aid to various sectors in NCR

Over a thousand residents of Caloocan City and the City of Manila received essential aid from the offices of Senators Alan Peter and Pia Cayetano during two days of outreach activities on March 4 and 5, 2024.

In Caloocan City, Barangay Health Workers, Barangay Nutrition Scholars, and Daycare Workers —sectors that the Cayetanos have been advocating for through legislation—were given aid to address their needs.

Former Caloocan 2nd District Representative Egay Erice, who was instrumental to the success of the March 4 activity, addressed the beneficiaries and thanked the sibling-senators for extending aid to their community.

"Magpasalamat tayo kay Senator Alan Peter at Senator Pia Cayetano sa handog nila sa ating lahat. Sa kahirapan ng buhay, iyan po ay ibinibigay nang walang kapalit at ano mang kondisyon," he said.

Aside from community development workers, members of the Tricycle Operators and Drivers' Association (TODA) of Barangay 12, Caloocan City, also received assistance from the senators.

The following day in the City of Manila, 300 women residents were empowered by the Cayetanos' aid in honor of Women’s Month, a cause close to the heart of Senator Pia Cayetano.

Among the beneficiaries was Remedios De Vera, who shared that she has been caring for her child undergoing dialysis for 29 years. Due to this, she had to resign from her job and seek assistance from various government agencies and offices.

She revealed that Senator Alan never failed to assist her with their medical needs.

“Simula noong nagsimula siyang mag-dialysis, palagi akong lumalapit kay Senator Alan Cayetano at palagi naman akong hindi nabibigo dahil palagi niya akong binibigyan ng tulong,” she said.

These outreach efforts were made possible through the assistance of the Department of Social Work and Development (DSWD)’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program and the local government units of Caloocan City and the City of Manila.

These initiatives are part of the Cayetanos’ ongoing efforts to support marginalized communities in the country. They closely collaborate with government agencies and local units to ensure that Filipinos in need receive necessary assistance. ###

Women, health workers, MSMEs thank Senators Alan and Pia for timely assistance

 

PRESS RELEASE

March 5, 2024

 Women, health workers, MSMEs thank Senators Alan and Pia for timely assistance

  A total of 1,000 beneficiaries from the province of Rizal received vital and timely assistance from the offices of Senators Alan and Pia Cayetano on March 4, 2024. 

Celebrating Women’s month, the office of Senator Pia gave aid to women and bolstered the health sector in Antipolo City.

“As barangay health worker po na nakatanggap po ng pinansyal, malaking bagay po ito para sa amin. Salamat po sa patuloy na kalinga sa BSW [Barangay Health Worker],” said Analiza Cabahug, one of the 500 beneficiaries from the event in Antipolo City.

As a health worker, Analiza is responsible for ensuring that the children in their community receive vitamins on time and monitor their height and weight. The aid she received is vital and helpful to her work, she said.

Cedie Ampol, another barangay health worker in Antipolo City, said the assistance will help her start up a sari-sari store.

“Nagpapasalamat ako kay Senator Pia at Senator Alan sa pagbigay sa amin, kahit papaano ay makatulong sa pamilya namin. Sa ganitong program, marami silang natutulungan, hindi lang sa amin, sa ibang tao rin,” he said.

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) owners also benefited as the office of Senator Alan provided necessary assistance to a total of 500 beneficiaries in Rizal Province, enabling them to increase and improve their livelihood.

The recent disbursement activity was done in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.

AICS aims to provide timely and vital support to people in a difficult situation, aiding their recovery during challenging times.

The recent disbursement activity in Antipolo City and Rizal province were made successful due to the extended efforts and participation of Rizal Province Governor Nina Ynares, Antipolo City Mayor Jun Ynares, Councilor Susan Say, and Former Mayor Andrea "Andeng" Ynares.

This is not the first time the sibling senators have reached Antipolo City and Rizal province. Last month, more than 2,000 residents in Rizal Province also received vital aid to boost their livelihood.###

TESDA grads thank Sen Alan Peter Cayetano and wife Pia for support

 

PRESS RELEASE

February 15, 2024

 TESDA grads thank Sen Alan Peter Cayetano and wife  Pia for support

 Graduates of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority’s (TESDA) Bread and Pastry Production NCII from Caloocan City thanked Senators Alan Peter Cayetano and Pia Cayetano for the support they received.

“Nabigyan po kami ng new learnings para makapag-trabaho sa labas ng comfort zone namin,” said Rogie Ganituen, one of the 50 students who graduated on February 13, 2024 at the Integrated Innovation and Hospitality (IIH) Colleges Inc.

“Sa pag-aaral ko po, na-apply ko po 'yung BPP [Bread and Pastry Production]… Thank you so much for giving us out this opportunity, na nabigyan kami ng scholarships sa course na 'to,” he added.

TESDA held the Special Training for Employment Program (STEP) in partnership with the Cayetano siblings. STEP is a community-based program that enhances students' employability and productivity by offering targeted skills training in entrepreneurial, self-employment, and service-oriented activities.

Under STEP, scholars go through four phases of training: Qualification, Competency Standards, Training Standards, and National Assessment and Certification.

Scholars enrolled in this program receive tool kits – including an oven and mixer – and a training allowance which serve as seed capital to start their livelihood endeavors.

Another scholar, Maila Altar, said the course was timely as the price of flour-based food has increased.

“Mahal na po kasi ang presyo ng mga bilihin, lalo na sa mga cakes and breads, mas makakamura kami kasi nakapag-aral kami. Malaking tulong po sa akin ‘yung Bread and Pastry,” she said.

“Ang tulong na ibinigay sa amin ng mga Cayetano… 'yung tool kit po at oven with mixer,” she added.

The training and graduation were made successful due to the support and efforts of the Assessment Center Manager at IIH Colleges Rosel Dela Cruz, Officer in Charge of IIH College Arjade Bocay, and TESDA Trainer and Assessor Les Navarro.

As gifts for the scholars, the sibling senators gave them with Cayetano in Action aprons upon receiving their certificates.

As advocates of technical education, the Cayetano siblings have supported TESDA students in various cities, recently providing allowances and tool kits to Malabon students during their training.

Senator Alan has recognized the significance of TESDA certification in advancing technical education, which leads to a more progressive nation.###

CAYETANO: TRUST IN THE WORD OF GOD AMIDST CONSTITUTIONAL TURMOIL

JANUARY 30, 2024

Press Release

 On Monday, National Bible Day, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano led the prayer at the opening of the Senate plenary session as the Senate continues to resist the push to amend the Constitution through a People’s Initiative (PI).

 "When we place our trust in the word of GOD, there is no disappointment," Cayetano said, emphasizing the importance of faith as the country grapples with a constitutional crisis, with the Senate and the House of Representatives at odds over constitutional amendments. Cayetano previously asserted the importance of carefully discussing any proposed amendment to the Constitution, noting that the Filipino people would ultimately bear the brunt of such changes. ###

Cayetano urges TESDA: Educate Filipinos on value of technical vocation

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano on Wednesday urged the leaders of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to help communicate to the public the value of TESDA certification and how, like a college degree, it can help them succeed in life.

“The greatest hindrance of technical vocation in the Philippines is may pagka-matapobre pa rin tayo kapag walang diploma,” the independent senator said during the hearing on TESDA’s proposed 2024 budget on Wednesday, September 13, 2023.

“Even if may diploma ka, we tend to look at the name of the school and the country where we graduated,” he added.

Cayetano said the problem lies in the lingering mentality among Filipinos that TESDA mostly caters to college drop-outs and out-of-school youth. 

“If we do not fight the mentality or stigma, ano ang lumalabas? Tatanungin ang bata, ‘Anong gusto mo maging?’ [The child will answer] ‘E ‘di mag college.’ [But then the child will be told] ‘Eh paano kung magdrop-out ka na, mag-TESDA ka na lang!’” he said.

‘Hindi dapat ganon,” he added, urging TESDA to help educate Filipinos about the value of technical education.

 “Baka your job is not only educating those who want to have skills but educating all Filipinos that we are human beings and the diplomas are just certifications of what we can do. We can actually be non-schooled,” he said.

To elaborate his point, Cayetano cited prominent people such as the late Senator Blas Ople, the late Apple founder Steve Jobs, and Microsoft founder Bill Gates who were successful in life despite dropping out of college.

He also gave Germany as an example of a country where students can work in big companies while they are still in high school.

“Sa Germany, kahit high school [student] ay nasa accounting department na ng malaking kumpanya at nag-apprentice sa banks. No one will doubt the quality of the banking and the car industry in Germany,” he said.

Cayetano said this change in belief and mentality should be inculcated in everyone,  particularly students who may aspire for non-traditional career tracks. 

“Dapat from elementary to high school pa lang, kapag sinabi ng mga bata ‘Gusto ko maging magaling sa automotive,’ [someone will ask] ‘Saan mo gusto?’ [and the child will reply] ‘Gusto ko sa TESDA!” he said.

Wrapping up his manifestation, Cayetano expressed his “support to the TESDA family” as it works to improve the quality of technical education in the country as well as the mindset of the people about TESDA diplomas. ###