Rise and Shine: Breakfast Bliss at Ricardo's by Cucina Higala

COURTESY: 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐦 - 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝟏𝟎

Amidst the tranquil surroundings of Manolo Fortich, the second day of NorthMin Philippine Experience (PEP) kicks off with an unforgettable breakfast at Ricardo's by Cucina Higala. Picture this: the sun gently rising over a scenic landscape, casting a warm glow on the rolling hills and lush greenery. It’s a scene right out of a postcard, and the perfect setting to start a day packed with exploration, culture, and heritage discovery.

As the delegates gather, there's a palpable sense of excitement in the air. Everyone is eager to dive into the culinary delights that await them. Trust me, when you start your day with a breakfast like this, you're setting the tone for an epic day ahead.

The spread at Ricardo's is nothing short of spectacular. Every dish is a culinary delight that tantalizes the taste buds and leaves you craving for more. From freshly baked bread and pastries to an array of tropical fruits, the choices are endless. And let's not forget the sumptuous local delicacies that add a unique twist to the meal.

One of the highlights has to be the traditional Filipino breakfast items. Think garlic fried rice, savory longganisa sausages, and perfectly fried eggs. Each bite is a burst of flavor that transports you straight to foodie heaven. It’s the kind of meal that makes you appreciate the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines even more.

But it’s not just about the food. The ambiance at Ricardo's by Cucina Higala is equally mesmerizing. Nestled in a picturesque location, the place exudes a rustic charm that makes you instantly feel at home. The décor is a harmonious blend of traditional and modern elements, creating a cozy yet elegant atmosphere.

As you sip on your freshly brewed coffee, take a moment to soak in the surroundings. The chirping of birds, the gentle rustling of leaves, and the distant hum of nature – it’s a symphony of sounds that adds to the overall experience. It's these little details that make breakfast at Ricardo's a truly memorable affair.

With such a delightful start to the day, the delegates are all set for a day filled with exciting activities. The NorthMin PEP is all about discovering the rich cultural and heritage treasures of Northern Mindanao, and breakfast at Ricardo's sets the perfect tone for it.

From exploring historical sites to engaging in cultural exchanges, the day promises to be an enriching experience. And with a hearty breakfast fueling their spirits, the delegates are ready to take on whatever adventures come their way.

In conclusion, breakfast at Ricardo's by Cucina Higala isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that lingers in your memory long after the day is over. Amidst the tranquil surroundings of Manolo Fortich, it’s the perfect way to kickstart a day of exploration and discovery. So, if you ever find yourself in this part of the world, make sure to treat yourself to this culinary gem. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

JobsNext: CDO and PBEd's Fresh Take on Youth Empowerment

COURTESY: CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA)

Hey there! Have you heard the buzz in Cagayan de Oro City? The Public Employment Service Office (PESO) of CDO City, teaming up with the Philippine Business for Education (PBEd), has just kicked off the second edition of the JobsNext program. This initiative is all about upskilling our youth to tackle the jobs of the future. Let’s dive into what makes this program a game-changer!

On May 21, CDO City saw the launch of the 2nd JobsNext program edition, aiming to foster lifelong learning and equip our workforce with skills that are not just relevant but essential for future job markets. Justine Raagas, the PBEd executive director, shared that PBEd has been collaborating with CDO since 2013. She highlighted the city’s dynamic leadership, robust education system, and supportive private sector as key factors for this partnership.

Raagas emphasized that PBEd’s mission is to train 400 young individuals in CDO in future-centric fields like analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and data science. After their training, these young talents will transition into available jobs, making the entire process seamless and impactful. And guess what? These aren’t just any jobs; they’re roles that offer salaries well above the minimum wage, especially in the ICT and data science sectors.

Take Mary Jane C. Yane, an 18-year-old student from PHINMA Cagayan de Oro College. She’s super excited about joining the JobsNext program. “Companies widely use computers now; the JobsNext program is timely and relevant now, more than ever,” she said. For Mary Jane, this program is a golden opportunity for the youth, especially those eyeing careers in IT.

Then there's Bryll Bryan M. Pon, a 19-year-old mechanical engineering student from USTP. He’s considering a shift to data science because, in his words, “Data science is more about interpreting and analyzing data; it is a great career path as our future is moving towards the IT industry.” For Bryll, the JobsNext program is a perfect platform to build on his skills and delve deeper into machine learning and AI. He believes the future of JobsNext is bright and promising.

CDO City Administrator Roy Hilario Raagas, speaking on behalf of Mayor Rolando A. Uy, hailed the JobsNext program as “a beacon of hope for our unemployed youth.” The program offers training in critical areas like AI, machine learning, cyber security, and green skills, which are essential for future job markets.

Mayor Uy expressed excitement over the opportunities JobsNext extends to young Filipinos, equipping them with necessary skills and opening wider employment avenues. The city government of CDO is fully committed to supporting this initiative, ensuring its success and sustainability.

Councilor Jose "Pepe" Abbu, Jr., who chairs the city's Committee on Labor and Employment, emphasized the local government’s aim to reduce the unemployment rate. He assured that any necessary legislation to support the program would be backed by the City Council. Meanwhile, Councilor Suzette Magtajas-Daba, chairperson of the Committee on Education, highlighted that education is a powerful tool in breaking the cycle of poverty and improving the quality of life for young individuals.

Andrea Adorio from JobsNext PBEd pointed out a startling fact: according to the International Labour Organization, 49% of the Filipino workforce could be unemployed due to automation. The World Economic Forum also indicates that 44% of workers' core skills are expected to change in the next five years, with AI and leadership being pivotal.

Fast-growing jobs include AI and machine learning specialists, while roles like bank tellers and clerks are on the decline. PBEd supports the JobsNext Bill, aiming to promote lifelong learning and upskill the workforce for future job markets. Representative Patrick Michael Vargas of Quezon City's Fifth District filed this bill, advocating for a skills voucher program to help Filipinos adapt to automation and digitization.

CDO Sangguniang Federation President Kenneth Sacala praised the initiative as a significant step towards enhancing employability and creating new opportunities for Kagay-anon youth. PESO Manager Kathleen Kate 'Kitkat' Sorilla and Lord Saver Centina, the local youth development officer, are committed to enhancing youth opportunities through JobsNext and other initiatives.

In conclusion, the JobsNext program isn’t just about training; it’s about transforming lives and preparing our youth for a future that's already here. So, if you're in CDO and looking to upskill, this is your moment. Don’t miss out!