Filipino welders most sought-after workers – Tesda

MANILA, Philippines - Welders are the most sought-after workers in the Philippines and overseas nowadays, the Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has said. Washington Agustin, Tesda director for Region 1 (Ilocos), said structural welders are most especially in high demand due to requirements by the ship building industry and manufacturer of industrial tanks, including LPG (liquefied petroleum tanks).   Agustin mentioned the growing need for welders during his speech in the graduation exercises for 136 trainees of Shielded Metal Arch Welding sponsored by TESDA in cooperation with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).   The graduates will also undergo a more advance training, the Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTWT), which will help make them eligible for work overseas.   Agustin also said that Filipino workers are most wanted abroad compare to other nationalities not only because of their efficiency and good work ethic but also with their good command of the English language.   The Tesda also trained these welders using basic English to help them converse with the employers abroad and make themselves stand out among other foreign workers.   Agustin noted that before the new graduate welders secure an overseas job, they are required to render service in the country for at least two years using their Tesda certificates to have a better job opportunity.   Welders are needed mostly in the United States and Canada, Europe, Middle East, as well as in some developing countries in Asia. GMANews, from a report of OFW Guide. OFW Guide