About 100  tractor drivers and mechanics upgraded their skills in the two-day seminar workshop conducted by the National Federation of Sugarcane Planters at the NFSP Livelihood and Technical Skills Training Center in Alijis, Bacolod City recently, a press release from  organizers said.

The participants, employees of planters affiliated with NFSP, were taught  of pre-starting inspection, engine classification, engine system (cooling, lubricating and air intake/exhaust), electrical systems and power train systems (clutch, transmission, propeller/coolant, differential and brakes) of different brands of tractors.

Drivers and mechanics  underwent a refresher course on basic traffic rules and road courtesy, including rules on driving in highways, overtaking, use of correct lanes for slow-moving vehicles, left/right turn signals and proper distances when driving in groups.

Guillermo Banagodos, Jr., a senior Technical Education and Skills Development Specialist from the TESDA Regional Training Center in Talisay City, led the list of resource speakers, the press release said.

Jeanet de Belen, general manager of Tractorco Company, Inc., discussed tractor operation and maintenance, specifically for Massey Ferguson tractors, which her company assembles  in Talisay City.

Ford Tractor Philippines branch manager Catherine Benedicto, meanwhile, lectured on  tractor operation and maintenance, specifically for Ford tractors.

“There is little we can do about the cost of fuel and lubricants but we can help our members reduce their transport-related expenses by teaching their drivers and mechanics the correct way of operating and maintaining their transport equipment,” NFSP president Enrique Rojas, said.

Te seminar that was part of NFSP’s service to its members, was free and the participants were also served refreshments and lunch.

They also received TESDA-accredited certificates of completion from Banagodos, NFSP manager Cresencio Abunda,  and NFSP Training Center director Silverio Navarro.*

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