Last 22 September 2026, Firefly Electric and Lighting Corporation (FELCO) officially announced its educational partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority – Pasay-Makati District Training and Assessment Center (TESDA-PMDTAC).
Through HERKS Hardware and Tools, FELCO turned over industry-grade hardware products and conducted product knowledge training for the trainees of the NC (National Competency) II Carpentry Course. This collaboration aims to elevate vocational training standards by giving aspiring craftsmen access to professional-grade tools early in their careers.
Investing in the Craftsman Behind the Tools
The official ceremony took place at the TESDA Complex in Taguig City. Key leadership from both organizations gathered for the signing of the acknowledgement documents and ceremonial turnover, marking the start of a long-term initiative focused on community development and workforce empowerment.
During his keynote address, Mr. Erik Riola, FELCO Marketing Director, emphasized that empowering skilled workers is central to the company’s mission:
"Kami po ay naniniwala that quality tools are important, but the person behind the tool is even more important. Sa likod ng bawat matibay na bahay at gusali, ay may isang skilled worker. Sa likod ng bawat magandang proyekto ay isang craftsman na may malasakit sa kanyang trabaho. Through HERKS, we are proud to support that journey by providing the TESDA-PASMAK NC II Carpentry Trainees with practical, industry-grade hardware and tools—from hand tools and measuring equipment to locksets, door hardware, and finishing tools."
Mr. Riola added that this initiative goes beyond donating physical items:
"This partnership reminds us that when we work together, we can create more opportunities for Filipinos to learn, to earn, and to build better lives for themselves, their families, and our country."
Fostering Excellence in Vocational Education
Expressing gratitude on behalf of the institution, Ms. Vernadette Gonzales, TESDA-PMDTAC Administrator, highlighted the shared values of public-private cooperation and community upliftment.
Ms. Gonzales encouraged the scholars to maximize the opportunity and carry their learning forward into their professional lives:
"Itong mga tools na ito, ang pinapahalagahan niyan is yung tao na nasa likod nito at gumagamit ng mga tools. The government and private institutions are all working together para sa inyo. Just like what our instructors do—pass it forward. Always pay it forward."
The delegation included key figures from both organizations, including Assistant Brand Manager for HERKS Hardware and Tools, Justin Pascual and Senior TESDA Specialist, Joey Maglupay, alongside batch 3 of the NC II Carpentry trainees.
Beyond Product Turnover: HERKS Product Knowledge 101 (PK101)
To ensure the trainees maximize the utility of their new equipment, the event concluded with a specialized HERKS Product Knowledge 101 (PK101) technical training session led by FELCO Sales Training and Development Manager Mr. Arnel Villa.
The workshop exposed the students to the comprehensive HERKS product portfolio, covering practical applications, consultation considerations and material handling—equipping future carpenters with both the technical confidence and competence required by employers.
Through long-term educational partnerships like this, FELCO through HERKS Hardware and Tools continue to support local trade communities, proving that high-quality construction begins with well-equipped and highly skilled builders.
Build Your Next Project with HERKS
Discover the full range of durable, precision-engineered hardware, hand tools, measuring instruments, door hardware, and finishing accessories from HERKS.
- Explore the HERKS Catalog: Browse and buy authentic HERKS Hardware products online via FELCOStore.ph.
- Stay Updated: Follow HERKS Hardware and Tools on official social media channels to catch future brand activations, technical tips, and product releases.
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/herksph
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/herksph
- TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@herksph
At FELCO, we deliver dependable lighting, electrical, hardware, and power solutions built for everyday demands. From homes to worksites, our products are designed to perform with consistency and reliability. Combining local insight with global expertise, we bring world‑class innovation to Filipino communities — empowering builders, businesses, and families with tools and technologies they can trust.
