In celebration of Indigenous Peoples and Museum Month, Saint Mary’s University (SMU) conducted Project TECH-AGTUTUBO, a Community-Based Training (CBT) program, last October 3, 2026. Spearheaded by the Equivalency and Technical-Vocational Assessment Office (ETVAO) the initiative was organized in close partnership with the Community Engagement and Indigenous Peoples Studies Center (CEIPSC), the Center for Information and Communications Technology (CICT), the Computer and Electronics Technical Service Office (CETSO), and volunteer non-academic personnel and student.

               Now on its second year, Project TECH-AGTUTUBO provides hands-on Computer Systems Servicing (CSS) NC II training to Indigenous Peoples (IP) and Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) participants from across Nueva Vizcaya. Designed to foster inclusive growth, the program aims to deliver accessible technical education and practical digital skills to local communities.

               The morning session opened at the GdB Hotel Functional Hall, where non-academic office personnel and student volunteers assisted in managing and coordinating. Mrs. Gayle R. Mercado, Head of ETVAO, reinforced the university’s mission to empower local communities through accessible technical education and social inclusion. She then shared key training modules and expected impact of the initiative on the participants. CICT Director, Mrs. Essel T. Cañaberal highlighted the critical role of digital literacy and technical capability in today’s digital landscape emphasizing the collaborative commitment of CICT in bridging the digital divide for local communities. Mr. Samuel B. Damayon, Vice President for Administration, spoke on institutional stewardship and community development before officially declaring the training open.

               Representatives from government partner agencies also delivered messages of support. Mrs. Eva T. Doniego, Supervising TESD Specialist, conveyed TESDA’s message of support and program guidance, while Mrs. Ma. Belen O. Foryasen, SWO III / Provincial Link for Nueva Vizcaya, relayed DSWD’s commitment to supporting IP and 4Ps through inclusive community development.

               The activities transitioned into technical training sessions at Apo Pilo Building. led by CBT trainers Mr. Dennis Aboseijo and Mr. Erald John A. Aguilar, covering component identification, pre-assembly planning, and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) protocols. Practical exercises were led by CBT trainer Mr. Chester Duane M. Palacay and staff from CICT and CETSO. The trainees physically assembled computer hardware, prepared bootable installation media, installed operating systems and drivers, configured application software, and performed comprehensive system testing. In the afternoon, CBT trainer Mr. Emerson Rabago assisted by Mr. Clark Kenneth C. Cabico led a practical module on printer repair titled “Printer Rescue,” which was followed by an awareness talk on electronic waste management by CETSO Head Mr. Mildios V. Blando.

               Through these joint efforts, the collaboration from SMU, TESDA, and DSWD continue to champion sustainable development and inclusive community growth.