The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Negros Island Region (NIR) and the Association of Negros Producers Inc. (ANP) have officially signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on August 12, 2025, marking a significant milestone in skills development for the creative sector. This partnership establishes the Negros Industry TVET Board, a pioneering initiative for TESDA NIR.
The agreement, in accordance with Section 26 of Republic Act No. 7796 (the TESDA Act of 1994) and Section 7, Rule VI of its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR), aims to foster direct participation of employers and workers in the design and implementation of skills development schemes. The ANP will serve as the umbrella organization, harmonizing Creative Sector TVET requirements through collaborations with regional and provincial associations, addressing the evolving skills needs of the locality.
During the signing, Regional Director Nina Connie G. Dodd highlighted the importance of this collaboration, stating, “This is a momentous occasion for TESDA NIR as we recognize the Association of Negros Producers, Inc. as the first-ever industry association TVET Board among the 10 priority sectors in Negros Island. ANP is now officially our pilot industry partner in the region.”
Ms. Arlene A. Infante, Chairwoman of ANP, expressed her gratitude, “We are incredibly thankful to TESDA for this recognition. We are committed to this endeavor and will work hand-in-hand to make this a successful pilot in the region. Beyond the garments sector, we have five more sectors in need of this kind of collaboration and partnership.”
This partnership between TESDA NIR and ANP signifies a crucial step towards strengthening the creative sector in the Negros Island Region, ensuring that training and skills development are aligned with industry needs and demands