Angeles City, Pampanga — In a step toward greater inclusivity and empowerment, 21 members of the Aeta community successfully completed a free driving course provided through a partnership between the Angeles City Government and Sabalboro Driving School. The initiative highlights the city’s commitment to providing skills training and livelihood opportunities for Indigenous Peoples (IPs).
The program was made possible through Sabalboro Driving School’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, which aimed to give back to the community by supporting marginalized groups. The free training covered basic to advanced driving skills, ensuring that the participants would be equipped not only with driving proficiency but also with knowledge to pursue transport-related livelihoods.
Mayor Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II lauded the partnership, emphasizing the importance of inclusive development. “We are committed to helping our indigenous brothers and sisters gain access to skills that can change their lives,” he said. The program, he added, is aligned with the city’s broader goals of poverty reduction and empowerment through education and skills training.
The Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative, Carlos Salvador, played a key role in guiding and endorsing participants for the program. Several city departments also contributed, including the City Agriculture Office, the Angeles City Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (ACEDIPO), and the Angeles City Tourism Office (ACTO), which provided logistical support throughout the training.
This effort is part of a larger initiative to ensure that marginalized communities are not left behind in the city’s growth. By acquiring driving skills, the Aeta graduates now have the opportunity to find employment in public and private transport services, delivery services, or even start their own businesses.
Graduates expressed gratitude for the opportunity, noting how the training gave them hope and a tangible path toward a better future. For many, this was their first experience of formal skills education, and they now look forward to applying for driver’s licenses and securing work.
The Angeles City Government continues to seek partnerships with private institutions to replicate similar programs in other skill areas. As Mayor Lazatin reiterated, the city envisions a future where all Angeleños, regardless of background, have access to tools that help them thrive.
Source: Angeles City Information Office
