TESDA Programming (Java) NC III First Batch Graduates
La Union, Philippines—In a time when AI and automation are reshaping the tech industry, strong fundamentals and real-world experience remain the most reliable way to break into software development. This was proven by twenty aspiring developers from the Ilocos Region who completed Armada Logics’ first-ever TESDA Programming (Java) NC III training on May 2, 2025. A milestone that continues to shape tech careers in 2026.
Through structured lessons, hands-on activities, collaborative projects, and exposure to real engineering workflows, graduates gained job-ready Java skills designed to prepare them for modern, AI-enabled development environments.
More than a graduation, 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 Filipinos eager to break into or return to software development through practical learning and ongoing support.
In 2026, Armada Logics Programming Training is now offering paid training to remove the limitations of the free training, so aspiring developers no longer need to leave their province to access world-class tech education.
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.”
Diverse Talent, One Goal: Breaking into Tech through TESDA Programming (Java) NC III
The graduating batch reflected the diversity of today’s aspiring developers. Participants ranged in age from 25 to 45 years old. That includes college students, career shifters, and displaced workers—proving that anyone can start a tech journey.
Despite different backgrounds, they shared a common goal: to start or restart a career in software development.
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 enables learners to develop functional Java programs 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.
Learning Together: Collaboration, Challenges, and Growth
Hands-on collaboration was a core feature of the program. Learners worked in groups, discussed solutions, and learned from one another—mirroring real-world development teams.
Of course, the program wasn’t without its challenges.
“Mahirap maki-coordinate sa mga ka-team lalo po iba-ibang oras,” Keith noted.
But those challenges became learning opportunities.
“Pero natutunan ko po kung paano nila inimplement yung solutions nila. Ang daming insight,” Joseph shared.
From TESDA Programming (Java) NC III to Internship: 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.
Building World-Class Tech Talent in the Ilocos Region
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.
Expanding From the North to Nationwide in 2026
In 2026, Armada Logics is expanding its TESDA-accredited training programs to make Silicon Valley-caliber tech education more accessible—without the usual limitations. 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.
For Region I residents, Armada Logics continues to offer Free TESDA Programming (Java) NC III, subject to TESDA guidelines and scholarship availability.
For learners nationwide, Armada Logics now offers a Paid TESDA Programming (Java) NC III program, removing regional restrictions, limited scholarship slots, and long wait times—while maintaining the same TESDA accreditation, curriculum, and industry-led instruction.
This paid program is designed for:
- Career shifters and beginners outside Region I
- Learners who want guaranteed slots and more flexible schedules
- Individuals ready to invest in a structured, outcome-driven tech career path
In addition, Armada Logics is preparing to launch AI Fundamentals training, designed to complement Java skills and prepare beginners for modern, AI-enabled software development teams in 2026 and beyond.
Ready to start your journey in software development?
If you’re an aspiring software developer looking for structured training, nationally recognized certification, and real-world preparation, Armada Logics’ TESDA-accredited programs are now accepting applicants for the upcoming 2026 cohorts.
- Region 1 residents may apply for the Free TESDA Programming (Java) NC III, subject to slot and scholarship availability.
- Non–Region 1 residents can enroll in our Paid TESDA Programming (Java) NC III, designed to provide the same industry-aligned curriculum and hands-on learning—no regional restrictions. Region 1 residents who prefer not to wait may also enroll directly in our Paid Java Training for immediate access.
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