SUCCESS STORIES

Mark Vincent Nodalo’s success story is one of resilience, determination, and faith. Born in 1982 in Maco, Davao del Norte, Philippines, Mark grew up in a large family of 11 siblings, being the third child. His early life was marked by hardship. When his parents separated, he and his siblings were scattered across relatives’ homes, never having a permanent place to live. Poverty forced him into adulthood early, and at a young age, Mark had to juggle multiple jobs just to survive. From being a sales boy for Cospachem Cosmetics in Agusan del Sur to working in glassware and plastic ware shops in Manila, he did whatever he could to help his family.

By the time he was 14, Mark’s life took a dark turn. In the throes of desperation and the chaos of a broken family, he became involved in drug use, specifically Marijuana and Shabu.  He also dealt drugs during his high school years, leading him to become a person of interest to local authorities. Fearing arrest, he stowed away to Cebu City to escape the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA). Despite the adversity, Mark held on to a deep desire to change the course of his life.

A turning point came when he learned about the Agusan del Sur School of Arts and Trades (ASSAT), a TESDA-administered school offering vocational courses. Determined to make a fresh start, Mark took drastic steps to be accepted—he removed his tattoos, a visible symbol of his troubled past, and worked hard to gain admission to ASSAT’s 3-Year Automotive Technology program. Though he didn’t consider himself academically gifted, Mark was driven by a new sense of purpose. With perseverance, he completed the course, passed the national assessment, and was deemed "Competent." The TESDA course gave him not only technical skills but also the confidence to reshape his life.

With his new qualifications, Mark entered the workforce and began a career as a heavy equipment mechanic. He first worked with JM Luciano Construction, gaining nine months of experience before moving to Maxima Machineries Inc., a Komatsu dealer. At Maxima, Mark honed his skills over 14 years, becoming a certified Komatsu Heavy Equipment Mechanic. His dedication to his craft and the opportunities created by his TESDA training allowed him to establish himself as a highly capable mechanic.

In August 2022, Mark took a significant step in his career when he moved to Prince Edward Island, Canada, following in the footsteps of his elder sister, who had settled there earlier with her family. His sister’s friend, a Filipino supervisor working in the local lobster industry, introduced him to an opportunity at Palmer Automotive and Truck Center. With his years of experience and skills acquired through TESDA, Mark easily passed the job interview. Since then, he has been working as a mechanic, specializing in heavy trucks and light vehicles. His work is highly regarded by both his employer and colleagues, and his unique expertise has made him a valuable asset to the company.

Mark’s journey to Canada wasn’t just a personal achievement; it also became a family affair. His younger brother, who had completed a 4-year TESDA course and spent 10 years working in Abu Dhabi, joined him in Canada. Together, they have helped one another settle into their new lives, and Mark’s elder sister, who also works in the local fishing and farming industry, rounds out the family unit now living in Prince Edward Island.

By December 2023, Mark’s hard work paid off in another significant way—he was granted permanent residency in Canada. This milestone marked the beginning of a more secure and stable future for him and his family. Mark’s success has also allowed him to give back. He has helped recruit other Filipino mechanics, particularly from his alma mater, ASSAT, and from Monark Philippines, where he once worked. He also supports his siblings and his wife’s family financially, using his earnings to uplift his family members still struggling in the Philippines.

Mark’s contributions don’t go unnoticed. His employer and coworkers appreciate his technical knowledge and skills, and Mark goes the extra mile by sharing his expertise with those around him. His ability to teach and mentor others has made him not just an employee but a leader among his peers. In January 2024, Mark’s luck turned once more when he won a second-hand SUV in a Pinoy raffle draw, a well-deserved reward for his perseverance and positive spirit.

Reflecting on his journey, Mark credits ASSAT Instructors and TESDA for giving him the opportunity to change his life. His technical skills allowed him to find employment quickly and excel in his career. He remains deeply thankful for the education and training he received, which set him on the path to success. But more than that, Mark’s story is a testament to his faith. He believes in staying humble, helping others, and always keeping his eyes on what truly matters in life—family, service, and faith in God. For Mark, it isn’t about becoming rich; it’s about being able to help his siblings, his wife’s family, and those in need. He holds on to the belief that material wealth cannot be brought to heaven, but the good you do for others will leave a lasting legacy.

Mark Vincent Nodalo’s journey from a troubled youth in the Philippines to a successful mechanic in Canada is a powerful reminder that no matter how difficult your circumstances, with hard work, faith, and the right opportunities, you can achieve your dreams. 

In the quiet town of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur, the hum of sewing machines is more than just a background noise; it's the sound of dreams being stitched into reality. This is particularly true for Flixe Mae O. Sarnillo, affectionately known as Mimi, whose journey from a determined student to a successful entrepreneur is nothing short of inspiring. 

Born on May 17, 1996, in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Mimi grew up in a large family with five siblings. Life was not easy, and the financial strain on her family meant that Mimi had to work hard to support her education. "Life was challenging while I was studying Dressmaking NC II at ASSAT, especially since my siblings and I were all attending school simultaneously. However, I persevered and completed the course," Mimi recalls. 

Mimi’s life took a transformative turn when she enrolled in the Dressmaking NC II course at the Agusan del Sur School of Arts and Trades (ASSAT), a TESDA administered school. Despite the challenges, Mimi’s passion for dressmaking and her determination to succeed kept her focused. Her hard work paid off during her On-the-Job Training (OJT) at Stesso Corporation in Matina, Davao City, where she not only honed her skills but also realized the importance of further enhancing her craft. 

Balancing school, OJT, and her responsibilities at home was not easy. Yet, Mimi remained undeterred. She completed her course with flying colors, earning a competent rating in the National Assessment for Dressmaking NC II. This achievement was a significant milestone, but it was just the beginning of her journey. 

After refining her sewing skills at various tailoring shops, she figured she was ready to establish her own tailoring business. Mimi set out to turn her dream into reality by starting her own tailoring business. Operating from her home in Purok 3, Alegria, SFADS, Mimi’s business has steadily grown over the past five years. She caters to a diverse clientele, creating uniforms for schools, government offices, and private businesses. "The skills I gained at ASSAT have been incredibly beneficial. Running my business from home allows me to work long hours without needing to travel or commute. These skills, along with the sewing machine I purchased from my previous jobs at various tailoring shops, have significantly supported our financial needs," Mimi explains. 

Mimi’s success is not just her own; it’s a beacon of hope for her community. Her story is a powerful testament to the opportunities that technical vocational education can provide. "In my opinion, taking TESDA courses is highly beneficial if you have the potential, determination, and passion for the chosen course. These qualities, combined with prayer, can lead to success and help you achieve your dreams. I am very grateful to ASSAT and TESDA for their significant role in my accomplishments today," Mimi shares. 

As her business continues to thrive, Mimi is not just content with her current success. She has plans to expand her services. Her journey from a young girl with a dream to a successful entrepreneur is a shining example of what can be achieved with hard work, determination, and the right support.