Marikina: The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has announced this year's winners of the Tagsanay Award, recognizing the most outstanding technical vocational trainers, during a ceremony held in Marikina on Monday afternoon. Wie Ann Fajardo, a Front Office Services NC II trainer from Region VI, emerged as the overall champion, receiving a PHP25,000 cash prize.
According to Philippines News Agency, Fajardo excelled in various competition categories, showcasing impressive instructional skills, creativity, and a strong grasp of TVET (technical and vocational education and training) principles. The first and second runners-up were Robert Revilla of Aparri Polytechnic Institute and Ronald Alvarez of the Provincial Training Center-Zamboanga Sibugay, who won PHP20,000 and PHP15,000, respectively.
TESDA Secretary Jose Francisco Benitez emphasized the importance of recognizing and incentivizing trainers, noting that trainers are mentors of transformation and deserving of the same respect as other educators. Benitez highlighted that TESDA's progress relies heavily on its trainers, despite advancements in facilities and equipment.
Special Awards were also presented, with Robert Revilla (Cagayan Valley) receiving the Best Trainer in Enhancing Training Package award. John Emil Sioco (Ilocos Region), Maiko Gil Hiwatig (Calabarzon), Demetrio Pable Jr. (National Capital Region), and Rosalino Daumar Jr. (Northern Mindanao) were acknowledged as the Most Innovative and Creative Trainers. Additional awards for Best in Data Gathering, Analysis, and Synthesis went to Juvelyn Camacho (Cordillera Administrative Region), Norman Buan (Central Luzon), Anatol Burce (Bicol), Ronald Alvarez (Zamboanga Peninsula), and Roy Cabatac (Soccsksargen).
TESDA also recognized Revilla, Burce, and Pable with the Best in Eco-Innovation Award, while Pable received the Viewers' Choice Award. A total of 13 nominees participated in the Tagsanay's 11th edition, with 10 receiving PHP5,000 each. They underwent rigorous evaluations, including tests in knowledge, data analysis, innovation, training enhancement, panel interviews, and demonstrations.
