As part of its commitment to excellence in education and industry readiness, the University of Southeastern Philippines Malabog Extension Campus (USeP–MEC) hosted a comprehensive Pre-Deployment and Capacity Building Seminar-Workshop on June 10–11, 2025, at the Paquibato Proper Gymnasium, Paquibato District, Davao City. This program was specifically designed for Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business (BSAB) students preparing for their On-the-Job Training (OJT). The activity served as a vital bridge between classroom-acquired theoretical knowledge and the practical skills required in the industry. Its primary aim was to ensure that students are not only mentally prepared but also equipped with the foundational competencies essential for a successful OJT experience—maximizing both learning outcomes and their contributions in the field.

The first day of the seminar commenced with a warm welcome from Dr. Aristeo C. Salapa, Dean of the College of Development Management (CDM). The day featured a series of insightful sessions focused on key aspects of professional workplace readiness. Mr. Romel L. Tambis, Deputy Director of the Human Resource Management Division (HRMD), spoke on the importance of professionalism and workplace etiquette, highlighting how proper conduct can positively impact career advancement. He was followed by Mr. Jade Gomez, a Psychometrician from the University Assessment and Guidance Center (UAGC), who shared strategies for understanding and managing workplace stress—an essential skill for maintaining mental well-being under job-related pressures.

In the afternoon session, the program focused on occupational health and safety, with Dr. Marites L. Domingo and Mr. Jet T. Cariaga—health professionals from the USeP Tagum-Mabini Unit—emphasizing the importance of health protocols and safety practices in any workplace setting. This was followed by a session led by Atty. Edward Ceasar J. Bedro and Mr. Ramon Ceasar L. Conjugacion from the Office of Legal Affairs (OLA), who provided insights into legal and ethical issues relevant to students, fostering a strong sense of workplace integrity and compliance. The day concluded with closing remarks from Mr. Rolen A. Bocog, USeP–MEC Coordinator, who reiterated the significance of professionalism and preparedness as students prepare for their industry immersion.

The second day of the seminar shifted focus toward enhancing students’ digital literacy and deepening their understanding of the OJT objectives. The day began with a welcoming message from Mr. Rolen A. Bocog, setting an encouraging tone for the sessions ahead. Ms. Vera Kim S. Tequin, Head of the Mindanao Center for Informatics and Intelligent Systems (MCIIS), led a session on mastering essential digital tools such as MS Office and Google applications—skills crucial for modern workplace efficiency. This was followed by a workshop on basic phone photography conducted by Information Officer Armando Jr. S. Adlawan from the Public Affairs Division (PAD), aimed at helping students effectively document and market their OJT experiences.

In the afternoon, Ms. Rachel Mae D. Barde, USeP–MEC BSAB Program Head, clarified the objectives and goals of the OJT to ensure students clearly understood expectations and strategies for maximizing their learning. The day concluded with final instructions from Mr. Jaharry B. De los Reyes, USeP–MEC OJT Coordinator, and closing remarks that encouraged students to embrace their upcoming field exposure with confidence and professionalism.