Guiuan launches solar training program for local residents

Posted on November 10, 2026 at 11:15 PM

Guiuan, Eastern Samar — The municipal government of Guiuan has launched a training program to teach local residents how to install and maintain solar power systems, as the town looks to expand the use of renewable energy.

The RIG-ON (Resilient) Guiuan Solar Scholars Initiative was launched on November 7 at the Eastern Samar State University (ESSU)-Guiuan Campus. It is a joint project of the local government, the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC), ESSU and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

The program will train local electricians, women and youth representatives in solar photovoltaic technology, energy efficiency and the installation and maintenance of solar power systems.

During the launch, Municipal Councilor Kinna Mae Kwan-Mabansag presented Guiuan’s Renewable Energy Code, which sets the policies for the municipality’s shift to renewable energy.

ICSC Director for Community Resilience Arturo Tahup discussed how solar power can help communities prepare for disasters and lessen their dependence on conventional energy sources.

ESSU-Guiuan Administrator Prof. Jared Harem Celis and College of Technology Dean Dr. Eric Guimbaolibot discussed the university’s role in providing technical training and extending the program to local communities.

TESDA, meanwhile, presented its National Certificate II (NC II) course in Photovoltaic Systems, which will give qualified participants the opportunity to obtain national certification in solar technology.

The municipal government, led by Mayor Annaliza Gonzales-Kwan, said the initiative aims to develop local workers who can help install and maintain solar power systems in the municipality.

Photo by: Beejay Balagbis