Scaling Success: WrkPod & PSMI Extend NIR Partnership to 2030
We are thrilled to announce a major milestone for the future of professional development in Dumaguete City. On March 18, 2026, WrkPod Inc. and the People Skills Management Institute, Inc. (PSMI) officially signed a five-year Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to strengthen the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) program in collaboration with Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
From left to right: James Thompson, WrkPod Executive Director; Marvie Datolio, WrkPod Head of HR; Meriane Salik, WrkPod Executive Manager; and Tina M. Ronato, PSMI’s President and CEO
The signing ceremony took place at the PSMI office in the Bandera Building, Cervantes St., represented by WrkPod’s Executive Director James Thompson, Executive Manager Meriane Salik, and Head of HR Marvie Datolio, alongside PSMI’s President and CEO, Tina M. Ronato.
Bridging the Gap: The “Training to Trabaho” Model
This partnership isn’t just about classroom learning; it’s about career creation. As the only institution in Negros Oriental certified under TESDA’s EBET Framework, WrkPod is leading a modern strategy that places real-world industry expertise at the heart of vocational education.
Through the Tulong Trabaho Scholarship Program (TTSP), we are implementing a “dualized” training system:
- Theoretical Training: Handled by PSMI, focusing on the essential academic and technical foundations.
- Practical Training: Conducted at WrkPod’s premium facilities, where students are immersed in our proprietary coaching and “trade secret” methodology.
“Our goal is to ensure every graduate is work-ready from Day 1. By blending PSMI’s academic excellence with WrkPod’s global industry standards, we are building a bridge between local talent and international opportunities.”
A Proven Track Record of Success
This 5-year extension comes on the heels of a highly successful 2025, which saw 40 beneficiaries graduate from the program and move toward meaningful employment.
Under the new agreement, which runs through December 31, 2030, PSMI will provide bi-annual employment reports to track the success of our scholars. This ensures that the Training for Work Scholarship and Tulong Trabaho programs continue to meet the evolving needs of the global SME market.
What This Means for the Community
By aligning our training with TESDA’s rigorous standards and Occupational Safety and Health protocols, we are providing a safe, world-class environment for Filipinos to upskill in fields like digital marketing, accounting, web development, and many more.
This collaboration is a significant step in nation-building, creating a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals who are ready to excel in the global BPO and co-working landscape.
Follow our journey as we empower the next generation of Filipino professionals!
