EXECUTIVE SUMMARY UPDATE – PILOT STANDALONE QUALIFICATION

Pilot Title: Pilot Standalone Qualification for High-Value NTFPs (Agarwood)

Objective:
To establish and test a ladderized TESDA qualification specifically for Agarwood Farming (NC I–NC III) as a model for high-value non-timber forest products (NTFPs), ensuring legal compliance, environmental sustainability, and market-ready skills for farmers and plantation workers.

Scope of Pilot:

  • Region: CALABARZON – Cavite
  • Qualifications: NC I, NC II, NC III
  • Target Participants: 60–100 farmers/workers
  • Delivery Mode: Blended (classroom instruction + hands-on farm immersion)
  • Duration: 6–12 months depending on NC level

Expected Outcomes:

  1. Competency-certified workforce in agarwood production
  2. Standardized quality control and ethical trade compliance
  3. Replicable regional model for other high-value NTFPs
  4. Strengthened partnerships between TESDA, DENR, DA–ATI, SUCs, and cooperatives

Rationale for Pilot:

  • High-value, export-oriented commodity with CITES regulation
  • Requires species-specific skills not covered by existing NCs
  • Demonstrates TESDA leadership in innovative, high-value agroforestry TVET programs

Recommendation:
Approve and implement the pilot as a model program for high-value NTFPs with potential national scaling.