BOHOL — The Bohol Province PESO‑CTEC Congress 2026 convened at the Metrocentre Hotel Grand Ballroom, gathering public employment managers, community training coordinators, industry leaders, and government agencies to strengthen collaboration for job creation. The event underscored Bohol’s commitment to a workforce that meets evolving market demands.
A Congress for Community Workforce
The Department of Labor and Employment, TESDA, and the Provincial Government of Bohol through BEPO‑PESO organized the congress under the theme “Strengthening Convergence of Training and Employment Services for Communities Through Unified Partnerships with Industry and Stakeholders.” It brought together PESO managers and Community Training and Employment Coordinators from across the province.
Provincial PESO Manager Maria Vilma Yorong led the gathering, which aimed to align local training programs with actual industry needs. The event focused on creating seamless pathways from skills acquisition to gainful employment. Participants discussed strategies to deliver responsive livelihood opportunities directly to communities.
Building on Award‑Winning Momentum
The congress follows Bohol’s strong showing at the recent PESOMAP Central Visayas Regional PESO Congress, where BEPO‑PESO earned multiple accolades. The office was recognized as the top user of the PESO Employment Information System and for conducting the most job fairs in the province. It also posted the highest number of hired‑on‑the‑spot applicants.
These awards validate the province’s aggressive push to connect jobseekers with employers. The recognition adds momentum as Bohol prepares for the National PESO Congress scheduled for October 2026 in Lapu‑Lapu City. The provincial leadership sees these achievements as proof that localized employment services deliver real results.
Bridging Training and Industry
TESDA’s involvement ensures that skills training aligns with the qualifications that businesses require. The congress highlighted the role of CTECs in identifying local talent, assessing skills gaps, and coordinating with training institutions. Industry partners provided direct input on emerging job roles and competencies needed in Bohol’s growing economy.
A recent job fair at the Bohol Cultural Center demonstrated the impact of this collaboration, drawing 540 jobseekers and placing 78 applicants on the spot with major employers like IBEX Global, TaskUs, and Concentrix. These outcomes reflect the effectiveness of aligning workforce development with private‑sector demand.
Grassroots Impact and Future Goals
Community Training and Employment Coordinators serve as the vital link between barangays and employment opportunities. They bring career orientation, training referrals, and livelihood tracking directly to municipal levels. This grassroots approach helps curb urban migration and reduces underemployment among out‑of‑school youth and fresh graduates.
The congress reinforced Bohol’s commitment to inclusive growth under Governor Aris Aumentado’s Strategic Governance Roadmap. By investing in human capital and strengthening local employment ecosystems, the province aims to create a resilient workforce that can adapt to economic shifts.
Unified Partnerships for Inclusive Growth
The congress concluded with a shared resolve to deepen linkages between government, industry, and communities. Organizers emphasized that sustainable employment cannot be achieved in silos, requiring continuous dialogue and joint action. The event served as both a celebration of recent gains and a strategic planning platform for the road ahead.
