Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) is committed to advancing inclusive and industry-responsive lifelong learning opportunities for the general public through its robust vocational training initiatives. These programs equip community members, out-of-school youth, workers, and local entrepreneurs with practical skills aligned with employment, livelihood, and workforce development needs across Eastern Visayas.
EVSU delivers capacity-building programs through two complementary modalities:
These are regularly scheduled, standardized trainings organized through the University’s Technical-Vocational Education and Training (TVET) portfolio, extension services, and specialized centers.
- Technical and vocational skills training in welding, plumbing, masonry, electrical installation, automotive servicing, and construction-related trades aligned with TESDA standards.
- Digital skills and ICT trainings such as basic computing, office productivity tools, and digital literacy certification.
- Entrepreneurship and livelihood training for micro and small enterprises, including food processing, handicraft production, and product development.
- Safety and professional skills such as First Aid, Basic Life Support, occupational health and safety, disaster resilience skills, and environmental stewardship.
Programmed offerings strengthen workforce readiness by providing structured curricula, certified competencies, and nationally recognized skill qualifications.
EVSU also responds to emerging local demands by hosting on-demand and one-off training sessions, often in partnership with government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector. These include:
- Specialized workforce upskilling aligned with industry and employment opportunities
- Community livelihood workshops targeting displaced workers, women’s groups, and rural communities
- Rapid skills development and entrepreneurship seminars supporting post-disaster recovery and economic resilience
- Executive and professional development sessions in leadership, public service delivery, and community organization management
These ad hoc offerings ensure timely, agile support for local development priorities and are often provided free of charge or with minimal cost to ensure access for vulnerable groups.
From Knife to Oven: Empowering Communities through Culinary Skills
On August 28, 2024, Barangay San Joaquin became the site of a unique community extension initiative organized by the Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology major in Culinary Arts program of Eastern Visayas State University–Tanauan Campus (EVSU-TC). Aptly titled “From Knife to Oven,” the activity aimed to develop the butchering and baking skills of aspiring culinary practitioners within the community.
Led by Program Leader Prof. Cathy Faye P. Pedrosa and Assistant Program Leader Prof. Doretta Cleofe D. Aniñon, the workshop formed part of the FOODS Program (Food Opportunities and Outreach for Development and Sustainability)—a community-based initiative that enhances culinary competencies through hands-on training and experiential learning. Facilitated by Professors Aiza Meniano, Jessa Margate, and Nikki Malquisto, the session provided participants with valuable experience in food preparation, safety, and production techniques.
Through this activity, EVSU-TC equipped participants with practical, employable skills that strengthen local livelihoods and prepare them for opportunities in the culinary and hospitality industries. The success of “From Knife to Oven” underscores the university’s commitment to inclusive education, workforce development, and community empowerment, aligning its outreach efforts with SDG 4 (Quality Education).
CRAFTS from SCRAP: Turning Waste into Worth for Community Empowerment
The Bachelor of Technical-Vocational Teacher Education (BTVTEd) program of Eastern Visayas State University–Tanauan Campus (EVSU-TC) successfully held its inaugural extension activity titled “CRAFTS from SCRAP” on September 13, 2024, under the umbrella program SLICED (Skill, Livelihood, and Literacy Training Integration to the Community for Economic Empowerment and Development).
Implemented in partnership with the Municipal Social Welfare and Development (MSWD) Office of Tanauan and involving members of the 4Ps Program, the initiative aimed to equip community members with creative and income-generating skills through recycling and upcycling. Guided by Program Leader Prof. Ma. Chona P. Fabre and Assistant Program Leader/Project Leader Prof. Angelica B. Catan, participants learned to transform discarded materials into functional rag items—promoting both sustainability and livelihood development.
The event was supported by Hon. Jasmin U. Borja, Tanauan Municipal Councilor and MSWD-OIC Head, and attended by Education Department faculty members, including Prof. Loreta Cinco, Dr. Teodora Picson, Dr. Jeffrey Negros, Head of the Office of Extension Services, and Dr. Sheldon Ives G. Agaton, Campus Director.
Through CRAFTS from SCRAP, the BTVTEd program demonstrates EVSU-TC’s dedication to community engagement, environmental stewardship, and economic empowerment.
The project not only fosters creativity and self-reliance among participants but also contributes to sustainable development by turning waste materials into sources of livelihood. With more activities under the SLICED program underway, EVSU-TC continues to advance inclusive, skill-based learning and local economic resilience in the region.
Partnership with Side by Side Alliance on Program IMPACT
Project IMPACT (International Mobilization of Partners for Action, Compassion, and Transformation) adopts an integrated training-to-employment model that combines competency-based technical skills training with direct livelihood support. Participants are equipped with practical trade skills in carpentry, masonry, steelworks, and plumbing, aligned with TESDA NC II standards, and are provided with essential tools to immediately begin work—ensuring the translation of training into income opportunities.
The initiative is delivered through a strong partnership among EVSU, Side-by-Side Alliance, Inc. (SSA) and the Local Government of Sta. Fe, Leyte, including the barangays of Catoogan and Cutay—communities where over 67% of households live below the poverty threshold. The collaboration enabled seamless implementation: EVSU handled curriculum and training, SSA covered training logistics, and government partners mobilized the community.
This partnership started in 2020 and was renewed for new 2-year Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on November 15, 2024.
The program has already delivered tangible outcomes, including:
- 34 graduates earned their TESDA National Certificate (NC II)
- Each graduate receiving a personal set of power tools to support immediate employment or entrepreneurship
- 2 completed public toilets with handwashing stations
- Creation of a skilled local workforce that strengthens Sta. Fe’s development efforts
Through targeted skills development and shared responsibility, Project IMPACT effectively breaks barriers to employment, uplifts vulnerable households, and lays the foundation for sustainable community-driven economic growth, demonstrating EVSU’s role as a transformative partner in inclusive regional development.
By combining EVSU’s academic and technical capability with Side by Side Alliance’s community development network, Program IMPACT contributes to SDG 4: Quality Education while advancing EVSU’s strategic mandate as a catalyst for human capital development in Eastern Visayas.
EVSU Carigara Campus and BJMP Launch HOPE Program for Persons Deprived of Liberty
On November 28, 2024, the Eastern Visayas State University – Carigara Campus (EVSU-CC), in partnership with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), formally launched the Holistic Outreach for Personal Empowerment (HOPE) Program at the Carigara District Jail, Leyte. This initiative aims to empower Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) by providing them with transformative learning opportunities and practical skills to support rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
The HOPE Program encompasses several projects—LIFE (Literacy, Integration, Fitness, and Empowerment), AIM (Acquiring Income through Money), NUMBERS (Numeracy, Upliftment for Meaningful Basic Education and Rehabilitation Support), FISH (Future in Sustainable Harvesting), and LINK (Learning ICT for New Knowledge)—each designed to foster literacy, livelihood, and life skills development among PDLs.
The event was graced by Dr. Analyn C. Españo, Vice President for Research and Development and Extension Services; Prof. Rustom D. Clemente, Director of Extension Services; Prof. Amelita A. Ariza, Project Leader; and Prof. John Niño R. Pallan, Assistant Program Leader, alongside faculty and extension coordinators. BJMP officials, led by Regional Director JSSUPT Bernardo M. Sanchez, also attended, affirming institutional collaboration in promoting human development.
Through the HOPE Program, EVSU demonstrates its commitment to inclusive education (SDG4), social justice, and community rehabilitation. By equipping PDLs with knowledge, skills, and renewed purpose, the university strengthens pathways toward empowerment, dignity, and reintegration.
Empowering Vulnerable Youth through Vocational Skills Training
On November 29, 2024, the Eastern Visayas State University–Tanauan Campus (EVSU-TC), through its Office of Extension Services, partnered with the Department of Social Welfare and Development–Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth (DSWD-RRCY) Field Office 8 to conduct a Simple Sewing and Tote Bag Making Training for Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL).
Spearheaded by Dr. Jeffrey B. Negros, Head of the Office of Extension Services, in collaboration with Ms. Georgina M. Bulasa, DSWD-RRCY Center Head, and Mr. Ben S. Caldazo, Manpower Development Officer, the initiative aimed to equip CICL with practical, income-generating skills that promote self-reliance and prepare them for successful reintegration into society.
Training sessions were facilitated by EVSU faculty members Ms. Angelica Catan and Ms. Emeleth Eguillos, who provided hands-on instruction in sewing and tote bag production. Participants learned to design, stitch, and finish functional and marketable bags—an empowering experience that combined creativity, discipline, and livelihood development.
This collaborative effort reflects EVSU’s unwavering commitment to inclusive education and social rehabilitation, demonstrating how vocational skills training can foster empowerment, restore dignity, and open new pathways for vulnerable youth. By integrating education with compassion, EVSU and DSWD advance the shared goals of promoting quality lifelong learning (SDG 4).
SPARK IT and Project BRIGHT: Enhancing Math Learning through Technology
The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) program of Eastern Visayas State University–Tanauan Campus (EVSU-TC) conducted a comprehensive training workshop for educators and learners of Tanauan I Central School on December 6, 2024, aimed at enhancing mathematics instruction through interactive, technology-based methods.
Implemented under the twin initiatives SPARK IT and Project BRIGHT, the activity focused on empowering teachers and students with digital tools and game-based learning strategies to make mathematics more engaging and accessible. The training was led by Prof. Aljon L. Abines, together with dedicated BSIT students Ruth Copino, Kyla Verona, and Cindy Ceron, who provided hands-on demonstrations and guided activities that helped participants integrate technology into classroom instruction.
The collaboration, facilitated by Mr. Lanilo A. Macalla, school principal of Tanauan I Central School, exemplifies EVSU’s commitment to community engagement and educational innovation.
Through the leadership of Dr. Jeffrey B. Negros, Head of the Office of Extension Services, the initiative strengthened the university’s partnership with basic education institutions and reinforced its role in promoting digital literacy, creative pedagogy, and lifelong learning.
By bridging higher education and community-based learning, this initiative advances SDG 4 (Quality Education), demonstrating EVSU’s dedication to fostering inclusive, technology-driven educational transformation in Eastern Visayas.
SPARK Your Safety: Promoting Electrical Safety and Skills in the Community
The Non-Teaching Personnel of Eastern Visayas State University–Tanauan Campus (EVSU-TC), under the leadership of Mr. Joshua G. Salceda, successfully implemented an extension activity titled “SPARK Your Safety: Electrical Wiring and Occupational Health Training.” The initiative, held in Barangay Talolora, Tanauan, Leyte on December 12, 2024, aimed to enhance community awareness and competencies in safe electrical practices and installation standards, in collaboration with the Technology Department and supported by Barangay Chairperson Hon. Rodgie A. Buendia.
The morning session covered key topics such as Wiring Diagrams and Wiring Boards, Occupational Safety and Health Standards, and a localized discussion on “Mga Sakto nga Buruhaton Hiuonong Kuryente”, a safety pamphlet outlining proper electrical procedures. Expert trainers Engr. Ralph Jericho Abides, Engr. Rex Enderio, Engr. Daniel Joseph Donila, and Prof. Deolito Legazpi led the lectures and demonstrations.
In the afternoon session, participants engaged in hands-on wiring installation exercises, applying theoretical concepts in a practical setting. This experiential approach deepened learning and strengthened participants’ ability to perform safe electrical work in their homes and communities.
Also in attendance were Dr. Jeffrey B. Negros, Head of the Office of Extension Services, and officers of the Non-Teaching Personnel Association, whose collective support ensured the success of the activity.
Through SPARK Your Safety, EVSU-TC demonstrates its continued commitment to lifelong learning, aligning its outreach programs with SDG 4 (Quality Education.
Project SWITCH: Empowering Communities through Electrical Skills Training
The Office of Extension Services of Eastern Visayas State University–Tanauan Campus (EVSU-TC) concluded 2024 with a community-centered initiative conducted in collaboration with the Technology Department under the E-Sirak Program through Project SWITCH (Skills and Workforce Improvement through Technical Capacity and Hands-on Training) on December 13, 2024.
Led by Engr. Ralph Jericho Abides, the Skills Training on Proper Electrical Wiring and Occupational Safety Practices was held in Barangay Sta. Elena, Tanauan, Leyte, and facilitated by expert trainers Engr. Rex Vincent Enderio, Engr. Daniel Joseph Donila, and Prof. Deolito Legazpi. The activity equipped participants with essential knowledge in basic electrical installation, wiring safety, and workplace hazard prevention—skills vital for livelihood and community safety.
This initiative marked the second leg of a back-to-back extension activity, underscoring the university’s sustained commitment to expanding access to technical and vocational education in local communities. By providing practical, industry-relevant training, EVSU-TC empowers individuals to enhance their employability and contribute to local development, advancing the goals of decent work, lifelong learning, and sustainable community growth.
EVSU-Carigara Campus Empowers Women through Project L.I.V.E Community Extension Program
Fulfilling its mandate to serve and uplift communities, the Eastern Visayas State University–Carigara Campus (EVSU-CC), under the leadership of Campus Director Dr. Mary Jean P. Yanger, conducted a community service activity on December 27, 2024, for the women’s organization of Barangay San Pedro, Tunga, Leyte. The initiative was implemented through Project L.I.V.E (Leverage Investment through Venture and Empowerment), led by Instructor Anabelle T. Cerezo, Project Leader.
The first in a series of community interventions, the “Personal Entrepreneurial Development Seminar”—facilitated by Dr. Ma. Loida Marquez—aimed to enhance entrepreneurial competencies, foster accountability, and inspire women toward sustainable livelihood ventures. The event was attended by local leaders, including Hon. Alma Bodo, Chairperson of the Barangay Women’s Committee, and Hon. Orlando Sudario, Barangay Chairman, along with active members of the women’s organization.
Project L.I.V.E is a partnership between EVSU-Carigara Campus and the Local Government Unit of Tunga, Leyte, formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement signed on October 5, 2023. The project underscores EVSU’s commitment to women’s empowerment, inclusive growth, and community resilience by equipping women with entrepreneurial skills that promote economic independence and reduce inequalities within the community.
