TESDA Programming (Java) NC III First Batch Graduates
La Union, Philippines—Twenty aspiring developers from the Ilocos Region completed Armada Logics’ first-ever TESDA Programming (Java) NC III training on May 2, 2025. They gained foundational knowledge and job-ready programming skills through structured lessons, hands-on activities, and real-world software development experience.
This milestone strengthens Armada’s mission to deliver Silicon Valley–level training and make industry-relevant tech education accessible across the region. More importantly, it opens doors for Ilocanos eager to break into or return to software development through practical learning and ongoing support.
Mario Narvaez, Armada’s VP of Training and Skills Development, emphasized the deeper purpose behind the initiative:
“To continue our mission in providing IT education to fellow Filipinos and to scout for possible talents that can join our growing team,” said Mario Narvaez, VP of Training and Skills Development at Armada Logics.
Diverse Talent, One Goal: Breaking into Tech through TESDA Programming (Java) NC III
The graduating batch came from diverse backgrounds—from students to career shifters—proving that anyone can start a tech journey. Their ages ranged from 20 to 45 years old. Some were still in college during the training, while others were displaced workers or professionals from unrelated fields.
Each participant shared a common goal: to pave or reclaim a path through tech.
A few graduates reflected on how the program helped them kickstart or accelerate their journey into programming:
“Gusto ko po talagang ma-enhance yung skills ko. Narealize ko through training na left behind ako sa Java,” shared Keith Lachica, a fresh graduate from Santo Tomas, La Union.
“Yung Java noon parang huling gamit ko pa second year college,” said Joseph Gapuz, “pero na-guide kami nang mabuti kaya bumalik din yung confidence.”
The free TESDA-backed training offered more than just theory. It provided real-world applications, collaborative exercises, and consistent hands-on practice. This method empowers learners to develop functional programs in Java by the end of the course.
“Before the training, wala po talaga akong alam sa Java Programming. 0/10 yung confidence ko sa Java programming, ngayon nasa 6/10 na,” shared Kyle De Jesus, a graduate from San Fernando.
“After training, 7–8/10 na po yung confidence ko. Malaking tulong po yung pagkakastructure ng modules at activities, progressive. Parang stairs na dahan-dahan lang. Then teaching style ng instructors di masyadong complex yung pagkakaturo kaya malaking tulong po talaga.” added Joseph.
For many, the training offered something they couldn’t find elsewhere: structure, encouragement, and a nearby opportunity.
“Meron pong mga nagsisi dahil di nila na-pursue yung programming na gusto nila. Di nila alam na may training at internship gaya neto dito sa La Union.”
We want to remove barriers for Ilocanos. They shouldn’t have to leave their province just to get high-quality software training and, eventually, employment opportunities.
6 Weeks of Rigorous, Real-World Training
Unlike traditional courses, Armada Logics’ TESDA training didn’t just cover theory. Instead, it focused on real-world applications, collaborative exercises, and consistent hands-on practice. This approach helped learners gradually develop functional Java programs by the end of the course.
To make this possible, the program was delivered fully online, bringing together 20 students, 18 from La Union and 2 from Ilocos Sur. It combined TESDA’s NC III curriculum with Armada Logics’ own instructional rigor and engineering mentorship.
Throughout the six-week program, participants trained under TM1-certified instructors who are also TESDA-certified in Java and Web Development.
The program emphasized
As a result, this blend of government standards and startup-quality execution made the training both accessible and industry-relevant.
“Maayos po yung pagtuturo nila. Magaling po sila mag-explain, lalo na kapag may analogies,” said Joseph, who found Object-Oriented Programming one of the more challenging yet rewarding parts of the training.
He also added, “Mas nae-explain nila into relatable things kesa yung complex na terms. Yun po yung pinakatumatak po sa akin.”
“Mas napadali po nila yung pag-intindi ko ng Java,” Keith added.
Hands-on collaboration was another core feature. Of course, the program wasn’t without its challenges. Coordinating with teammates for group projects sometimes proved difficult due to mismatched schedules.
“Mahirap maki-coordinate sa mga ka-team lalo po iba-ibang oras,” Keith noted.
“Pero natutunan ko po kung paano nila inimplement yung solutions nila. Ang daming insight,” Joseph shared.
From TESDA Programming (Java) NC III to Employment: Real Opportunities Await
Beyond the classroom, Armada Logics created a direct path to industry exposure. Ensuring the learning experience translates into tangible opportunities. Of the 20 graduates, seven were offered internship placements at Armada Logics. They will work alongside experienced software engineers and gain hands-on exposure to live development environments.
But the professional immersion started even before internships. As part of the program, trainees were invited to Armada Logics’ La Union office to present their projects. They receive live code reviews from professional developers—an uncommon opportunity in traditional training programs.
“First time ko po na ma-code review ng talagang developers. Ang laki pong tulong nun sa pag-grow ko as a coder,” said Joseph.
These in-office presentations provided real-world pressure and insight. These activities give trainees a rare chance to defend their code, receive constructive feedback, and learn how software development is done in the industry.
Armada Logics doesn't just teach Java—they prepare learners for the demands of real industry work. From the start, the program sets clear expectations:
We don’t stop at training. We guide learners all the way to employment. Through these structured internships and real-time feedback loops, Armada ensures that learners don’t just learn Java—they actually get to use it, present it, and improve it under the guidance of professionals.
Armada wants to bridge the gap between learning and real-world development, from coursework to actual collaboration with senior engineers. This opportunity isn’t just about finishing a course—it’s about building a future.
Expanding Tech Education in the North
Armada Logics has long been known for delivering Silicon Valley–grade software solutions from its base in La Union. Now, with TESDA accreditation and a growing pool of TM1-certified trainers, the company is extending that expertise to formal tech education in the Ilocos Region.
The success of this first batch reveals the hunger for upskilling among Ilocanos—and the value of keeping those opportunities local.
“Malaking bagay po yung malapit na yung ganitong opportunities,” Joseph noted.
“I-rerecommend ko po ito—malapit na, libre pa, tapos worth it yung skills na matututunan dito sa Armada,” Keith added.
“Kung unsure kayo kung para sa inyo ang programming, okay lang itry. At least di kayo mastuck wondering,” Joseph advised.
This successful graduation forms part of a larger goal. Armada plans to build a scalable, regional talent pipeline, one that brings world-class training to learners without requiring them to leave home.
Armada Logics is proving that world-class training doesn’t have to happen in Manila, Cebu, or other big cities. We’re making it happen right here in the heart of La Union.
What’s Next?
Looking ahead, Armada Logics is preparing to launch more TESDA-accredited cohorts in Programming (Java) NC III across Region 1, with plans to expand to neighboring regions in the coming months. Future participants can expect the same commitment to quality, mentorship, and real-world readiness.
“Ang daming kailangang matutunan. Pero lahat naman po learnable. Kailangan lang po talagang magpush through,” said Joseph.
If you’re a student, graduate, or career shifter looking for a way into the tech industry, this program can be your launchpad.
Ready to start your journey in software development?
Apply now at tesda.armadalogics.com to join our upcoming Java training programs.
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