By Felix N. Codilla III
IN a remote municipality in Leyte, one educational institution stands out for its pivotal role in transforming the lives of its students. Kananga-EDC Institute of Technology (Keitech) has been a beacon of hope for countless families, offering not just education but a pathway out of poverty and hardship.
In a province where economic struggle is common, Keitech’s contribution is particularly significant. According to the latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Leyte’s poverty rate stands at 29.2%, surpassing the regional average of 28.9%. In Kananga, the situation is even more dire, with 25% of high school graduates unable to pursue further education. Of those who do continue their studies, only 15% manage to find work after graduation.
In response to this pressing issue, Energy Development Corp. (EDC) designed a corporate social responsibility initiative that would have a lasting impact. EDC’s vision was simple yet powerful: teach a man to fish. Rather than providing handouts, the company sought to empower young people with skills that would secure them stable employment and break the cycle of poverty.
In 2009, EDC opened the doors to Keitech, located in Kananga, approximately 116 kilometers west of Tacloban, where EDC operates the Leyte Geothermal Production Field. The vocational training center was designed to provide high-quality, industry-relevant education—free of charge—enabling young people to join high-demand industries such as construction, engineering, metals, and tourism.
On November 29, Keitech held its 15th commencement exercises, with the theme “Builders of Tomorrow: Skilled, Disciplined, and Ready to Lead.” This year’s graduating class, dubbed the “Legion of Dream Builders,” included 90 students who completed courses in Heavy Industrial Multi-Process Welding, Construction Hand Craftsman, and Hotel and Restaurant Services.
What sets Keitech apart from other vocational institutions is its remarkable track record. The center boasts a 100% passing rate for national certification exams and a 90% employment rate for its graduates. This success is rooted in Keitech’s holistic approach to training: students are not only equipped with technical skills but also with critical life skills, including Construction Occupational Safety and Health, Basic Life Support, Fire Safety, Leadership and Self-Awareness, and even Martial Arts.
In addition to these specialized courses, Keitech requires students to live on campus for the duration of their six-month training program. This immersive experience helps foster discipline, responsibility, and strong work ethics. As Keitech administrator Erwin Magallanes explains, “Their skills will get them hired, but it’s their self-discipline and positive work attitude that will keep them employed and even advance their careers.”
Mark James S. Navarro, the batch valedictorian, echoed this sentiment in his commencement speech: “At Keitech, we were not just trained in technical skills, but also in life lessons. We learned to embrace corrections, collaborate with others, and persevere through trials. Keitech taught us values like integrity, humility, and respect—values that will guide us as we step into the next phase of our lives.”
After completing their in-campus training, students undergo a five-month on-the-job training (OJT), where many of them are absorbed by companies and offered permanent positions. Through this holistic approach, Keitech has not only helped individuals build careers but has also contributed significantly to nation-building.
From its humble beginnings, Keitech has evolved into a cornerstone of opportunity, demonstrating that education and skill-building are essential for breaking the cycle of poverty and creating a brighter future for the next generation.
