CEBU CITY, Cebu, Jan. 7 -- A virtual turn-over ceremony was held on Jan. 7 to welcome the new Regional Director of the Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Region 7.

The outgoing Regional Director, Atty. Andrew Bido, turned over the duties and responsibilities with the symbolic TESDA banner to the incoming Regional Director, Gamaliel Vicente Jr. CESO III, ASEAN Eng.

The change of leadership in the region is in line with TESDA Order No. 004 series 2022 issued by TESDA Director General Sec. Isidro Lapeña PhD., CSEE.

Regional and provincial directors of the agency shall go through assignment rotation to enhance their competence and experience in public service.

Atty. Bido, in his farewell message, reported the office’s success and achievements despite the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent onslaught of typhoon Odette, as he welcomed the incoming regional director.

Vicente accepted the duties and responsibilities as the new regional director of TESDA 7.

He said he is excited to work with the people in Region 7, especially as this is his home region and he will be back home with his family in Talisay City, Cebu.

Prior to TESDA, Vicente was the City Engineer and Building Official of Talisay City, Cebu for 15 years.

Vicente started his stint in TESDA when he was appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte as regional director in TESDA IV-B (MIMAROPA) on Oct. 15, 2018 where he stayed for more than two years and was reassigned to TESDA Region 8 (Eastern Visayas) on Jan. 4, 2021 prior to his new post in Region 7.

The virtual turnover ceremony was witnessed by TESDA-7 provincial directors, TTI administrators, personnel, and staff. (PR)