City College signs MOU to launch Japanese Language Program
Tagbilaran City College (TCC) entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Aoike International Academy Philippines Inc. to establish a Japanese Language Program on July 24, 2024 at the Tabilaran City Hall. In photo from left to right: Aoike International Principal, Clyd Malon; Aoike International President, Mr. Hiroke Aoike; Mayor Jane Yap and TCC School Administrator, Dr. Del Mark Cagatin.
Tagbilaran City College (TCC) and Aoike International Academy Philippines, Inc. have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish an academic partnership through a Japanese Language Program at TCC.
The MOU signing ceremony was held on July 24, 2024 at the Tagbilaran City Hall, marking the beginning of a collaborative initiative titled “Nihongo for Boholano: Basic Japanese Language Course for Boholano Learners,” aimed at broadening the perspectives of the youth and enhancing their future employment opportunities.
The MOU was signed by City Mayor Jane Yap, Chairperson of the TCC Board of Trustees, and Mr. Hiroki Aoike, President of Aoike Academy School Corporation Japan.
The event was witnessed by TCC College Administrator Dr. Del Mark A. Cagatin and Clyde Malon, School Principal of Aoike International Academy Philippines, Inc.
This partnership underscores a mutual agreement between TCC and Aoike Academy to undertake a variety of joint activities.
These include research and academic conferences, community extension and community service activities, and placement opportunities such as on-the-job training programs and job opportunities, all in compliance with the relevant laws and regulations of the country.
Mayor Jane Yap emphasized the significance of this collaboration in her remarks: “This partnership with Aoike International Academy opens up valuable opportunities for our students, providing them with essential language skills and broadening their horizons for future career prospects. We are committed to enhancing the educational landscape in Tagbilaran and preparing our youth for global opportunities.”
Mr. Hiroki Aoike also expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “We are excited to work with Tagbilaran City College to offer this Japanese language program. We hope that through this collaboration, we can equip Boholano learners with the skills they need to succeed in a globalized world.”
The introduction of the “Nihongo for Boholano: Basic Japanese Language Course for Boholano Learners” demonstrates Tagbilaran City College’s commitment to expanding its reach and enhancing educational offerings.
By partnering with Aoike International Academy Philippines, Inc., TCC is not only broadening its academic curriculum but also providing students with valuable language skills that open doors to global opportunities.
This program reflects TCC’s dedication to continuous improvement and its proactive approach to equipping learners with competencies that align with international standards and job market demands.
City holds Tarsier Souvenir Workshop to boost livelihood
Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap brings smiles and encouragement to participants in the Tarsier Souvenir Workshop. This was held on July 18, 2024, at Jj’s Seafood Village. The workshop, a collaborative effort with the Tagbilaran City Livelihood and Development Office, aimed to empower local artisans and boost the city’s tourism industry through unique, handcrafted souvenirs.
The City Government of Tagbilaran, through its City Livelihood and Community Development Office, successfully conducted a Tarsier Souvenir Making Workshop on July 18, 2024 at JJ’s Seafood Village.
The workshop welcomed participants from diverse backgrounds, including members of the Booy Women’s Association, Persons with Disabilities, Out-of-School Youths, and students from Tagbilaran City College and Bohol Island State University.
Attendees were taught how to create stuffed tarsier items, which they can sell in gift shops and tourist areas, including the Pasalubong Center located in Tagbilaran City Friendship Park in Barangay Bool.
The event featured experienced speakers and facilitators: Ms. Basilia Villarmia, Ms. Lea Suarez, and Ms. Jessica Tampos, all staff members of the City Livelihood and Community Development Office.
They received specialized training in tarsier souvenir making from Aproniana Gift Shop, which also provided the materials for the workshop.
In her speech, City Mayor Jane Yap, who was present at the event, expressed her support and enthusiasm for the initiative: “This workshop is a testament to our commitment to empowering our community through skill development and livelihood opportunities. By learning how to create these beautiful tarsier souvenirs, our participants are not only preserving a significant cultural symbol but also creating sustainable income sources for themselves and their families. I commend everyone involved for their dedication and hard work.”
Thanks to this initiative, trained beneficiaries are now regular suppliers of tarsier souvenirs, such as key holders, arm bands, and stuffed toys, at Aproniana Gift Shop.
This workshop not only provided valuable skills but also opened up new livelihood opportunities for the participants, empowering them to contribute to the local economy and promote Bohol’s unique cultural heritage.
Mayor Yap also highlighted that livelihood programs such as this are continually offered by Tagbilaran City to provide additional income for women, out-of-school youths, and students, helping them augment their family income.