The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region 7 recently launched its Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) for 2024.
Around 250 senior high school and college students have started working in the different offices of the Dumaguete City government under the 20-day annual SPES.
This initiative aims to provide financial assistance of more than P10,000 to students while giving them valuable work experience during their summer break.
SPES has been a beacon of hope for many young Filipinos, not just in Region 7 but across the country.
By offering short-term employment opportunities, the program helps students like Rica Losbaños, an incoming 3rd year Tourism student at Negros Oriental State University (NORSU), to support their education and gain practical skills.
“Kaning SPES big help kaayo nako ni siya since kanang maka earn ko’g kwarta, not only I can earn but I can learn and progress my passion which is to communicate with people,” Rica shared.
(This SPES is a big help to me because I can earn money. Not only can I earn, but I can also learn and progress my passion, which is to communicate with people.)
“It also helps me develop my professionalism and understand the reality of being a worker,” Rica added.
Dumaguete City has been recognized for its unwavering commitment to SPES.
The city has consistently produced a high number of SPES graduates, reflecting its dedication to supporting the education of poor but deserving students.
During the 122nd Labor Day celebration, DOLE-7 director Lilia A. Estillore honored Dumaguete City as the SPES Superstar, citing its efforts to expand the program and provide meaningful employment to hundreds of students.
For many beneficiaries, SPES is more than just a job, it’s also a stepping stone towards a better future.
“This program is a big help for me, especially now that everything is becoming more expensive. It’s a great support for the upcoming school year,” said Janrymae Gekali, a SPES beneficiary and incoming 3rd year Tourism student at Negros Oriental State University (NORSU).
Allen Ragay, a 20-year-old incoming first-year student at NORSU, also said SPES will help him in his plans to pursue his education.
“This helps me to provide for my own needs and build my experience. I plan to use my earnings to support my education,” he said.
Allen, who has previously worked in construction, appreciates the opportunity to gain new experiences through SPES.
The program also benefits the community at large by fostering a sense of responsibility and work ethic among the youth.
Lislie Cadeliña, an incoming 2nd year Education student at NORSU, highlighted the dual impact of SPES.
“I am very thankful because this opportunity not only helps me financially but also gives me work experience. It shows that the government is thinking about us students, especially those who really need help,” said Lislie.
SPES is a testament to the power of collaboration between the government and the community.
By investing in the youth, the program not only alleviates the financial burden on families but also equips students with the skills and experiences needed to succeed in their future careers.
As the students embark on their SPES journey, their stories of perseverance and gratitude resonate throughout Dumaguete.
These young individuals are not just working for a paycheck, they are building a foundation for a brighter, more promising future. (JCT/PIA7 Negros Oriental with reports from SU Interns Joriz Angel Palermo & Angelikka Rose Remollo)
