Twenty-two scholars from Negros Occidental were conferred certificates of completion during the graduation ceremony of CITE Technical Institute under the Negrense CITE – AI TEC (Agro-Industrial Technology and Enterprise Center) Scholarship Program, held today, April 23, 2025, at the Social Hall of the Negros Occidental Provincial Capitol.
The graduates completed the one-year Production Technology Program through the collaboration between CITE and the Negros Occidental Scholarship Program Division (NOSPD). The program provided them with both theories and practical skills training aligned with the standards set by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). Among the graduates, Hanna Marie Ibañez received a Certificate of Merit in recognition of her outstanding performance.
The event not only celebrated academic achievement but also underscored the strong public-private partnership that supported the scholars. CITE industry partners such as ASO Philippines, Autoliv Philippines, Ina Micro Opto Corporation, and Matluster Corporation— served as vital training grounds for the trainees to gain real-world technical skills.
This graduation marks the first batch of scholars to complete the Negrense CITE-AI-TEC program— an initiative designed to empower underprivileged youth through industry-relevant technical training and values-based education.
Dr. Jose Ramiro Carpio Jr., Executive Director of CITE, formally declared the graduates and delivered an inspirational message highlighting the potential of the youth in shaping the future of Negros Occidental. The keynote address was delivered by Hon. Dr. Rita Angela Gatuslao, Provincial Board Member and Chairperson of the Committee on Education, who emphasized that the occasion was not merely a personal triumph, but a collective success for the scholars’ families and communities.
In her speech, Dr. Gatuslao praised the scholarship program’s vision of cultivating Negrense leaders in technology and innovation. She urged the graduates to apply their skills in artificial intelligence, data science, and software development to solve local challenges particulary addressing real-world challenges—such as supporting local farmers and mentoring future generations.
The ceremony was graced by several distinguished guests, including Mr. Roberto L. Montelibano, Chairman of the Development Board of AI-TEC; Dr. Jose Rene Gayo, Founding Executive Director of AI-TEC; Ms. Marie June Castro, Executive Assistant to the Governor and GAD Focal Person; Atty. Rayfrando Diaz II, Provincial Administrator; Ms. Karen Dinsay, Officer-in-Charge of NOSPD.
Also in attendance were Mr. Marlon Valencia, CITE HR and Administrative Director; Mr. Dariel Lauron, CITE Industry, Government & Community Relations Director, Benjie Wong, Production Technology Head, Mark Grondiano, CITE Regsitrar, and Engr. Mariano Francis Xavier Hamoy.
This event reflects the province’s collective commitment to youth development through accessible education for Negrense youth in partnership with CITE programs. (Photos courtesy of Mr. Dariel Lauron)
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