Gay Anne S. Manlapaz first discovered TESDA while researching opportunities to advance her career and fulfill her dream of working abroad. As a single mother of five, she knew she needed a profession that was in-demand and could support her family. She chose the Caregiving Elderly NCII program and Trainers Methodology Level I (TM1), believing that TESDA’s programs would equip her with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to pursue both her advocacy and long-term career goals. As she said, “TESDA opened doors I never thought possible. Through the Caregiving course and TM1, I gained skill, confidence, and renewed the sense of purpose that TESDA transformed my passion into a profession—which is rooted in compassion, service, and integrity.”
During her training at TESDA RTC-NCR, Manlapaz faced the challenge of balancing motherhood, work, and studies. It was not easy, but she persevered. “While training at TESDA RTC-NCR, I balanced my motherhood, work and studies and it wasn’t easy, but every challenge pursued me to a closer, better life. Completing my trainings and passing all of the assessment became the turning point of my journey. I became a Caregiver and eventually I am now a trainer in the TESDA Technical Vocational Institute,” she shared. TESDA not only strengthened her technical abilities but also instilled in her the values of discipline, dedication, and effective mentorship, shaping her into a confident and competent trainer.
Today, Manlapaz continues to inspire others as a proud TVET trainer, teaching TESDA scholars the Caregiving course while sharing her passion for service and lifelong learning. She encourages fellow students to stay motivated, reminding them: “No dream is too big, no struggle is too heavy, when you [choose to] believe in yourself. TESDA can open the door, but your passion and perseverance will carry you through.” She attributes her success to the guidance and support of TESDA, especially RTC-NCR and her mentor, Ma’am Connie Villagracia. Through her journey, she has become a supermom, a caregiver, a trainer, and a dedicated advocate of lifelong learning. As she proudly declares, “ Tatak TESDA, Tatak TESDA RTC-NCR! Basta sama-sama, sa TESDA kayang- kaya!”
