A proud and meaningful milestone for another batch of SMAW NC I and SMAW NC II graduates!
On August 12, 2026, the TVET Department of John B. Lacson Colleges FoundationโBacolod proudly held its Graduation Exercises for three (3) batches of SMAW NC II graduates and one (1) batch of SMAW NC I graduates under the CY 2025 TESDA Scholarship Allocations for beneficiaries from outside Bacolod City.
This achievement was made possible through the support of the TESDA Negros Occidental Provincial Office, under the leadership of TESDA NIR Regional Director Niรฑa Connie G. Dodd, and the Third District Representative, Hon. Javier Miguel โJaviโ Benitez.
Our graduates were inspired by the messages of Engr. Sylvino V. Tupas, Ph.D., School Administrator; Engr. Alan M. Nuega, President of Phil-Apex Placement Agency, Inc.; Mr. Serafin Plotria, representative of Hon. Javi Benitez; Ms. Josie V. Aurelio, TESDA TESD Specialist II representing RD Niรฑa Connie G. Dodd; and Ms. Maria Vida V. Manliclic, PESO Personnel representing the Municipality of Binalbagan Mayor Immanuel I. Aranda.
The celebration became even more meaningful through the inspiring success stories of our graduates. Arvin Vasquez, a Batch 1 SMAW NC II graduate, is now working in Japan as a shipyard welder through Phil-Apex Placement Agency, Inc. Meanwhile, Joshua Cabatu-an, who had to put his BS Marine Engineering studies at JBLCF-Bacolod on hold due to financial challenges, pursued SMAW NC I and NC II training and is now preparing for his deployment to Japan as a shipyard welder in December 2026. Their journeys are a testament to how skills, determination, and opportunity can transform lives and open doors to a brighter future.
To all our graduates, congratulations! May your skills take you to new horizons and greater achievements.
Photos by:
Mcjules Gabayoyo