There’s a stark difference between landing a job and having a career, for which the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) found the need to come up with a mechanism for effectively honing the skills of a newbie into something promising.
For one, getting hired is not as simple as it looks, as expanding private companies usually pick applicants based on a professional portfolio based on extensive experience.
Under these circumstances, Marinel, Rofel Anne, and Genesis admitted having a hard time steering their way to become part of the so-called working class—but not until they heard of the government internship program (GIP), which, according to them, transformed their lives.
As interns, Marinel, Rofel Anne, and Genesis from the Ilocos region gained more than just the experience required by private employers. They also learned the simple trick of overcoming challenges and securing careers through the program.
Their stories showcase the power of GIP in empowering young Ilocos residents.
Resilience and Redemption
Marinel Osoteo, a single mom, initially dreamed of working abroad, but her fate doesn’t seem headed in that direction. To cut a long story short, she wasn’t able to go far to work as an overseas contract worker.
Struggling financially and battling self-doubt, she discovered the GIP.
Determined to prove her worth, she applied and qualified for an internship, where the supportive work environment boosted her confidence, for which she was tapped to work for a local government unit in Ilocos Sur.
In time, Marinel secured a permanent position and became a dedicated public servant, serving the people of Sta. Cruz in Ilocos Sur.
“Through this program and with the help of my superiors who trained me well, I learned to become more productive and efficient. I learned new knowledge and ideas from them. I learned to explore and discover things that made me more effective in doing things that I thought I couldn’t,” Marinel said in appreciation of DOLE’s GIP.
She added, “Through this program, my perception of life has changed. I no longer see myself as a failure who failed to achieve my dreams before. Thank you, DOLE, Public Employment Service Office-Sta. Cruz, and to those people who helped and believed in me.”
From Novice to Engineer
Engineering graduate Rofel Anne has a story to share too. According to her, the trek to land a job in the private sector didn’t quite go well amid an obstacle: her lack of experience.
It was then that the GIP offered her a lifeline.
Driven to overcome the hurdle, Rofel Anne actively sought an internship opportunity in the field of engineering, which she claimed proved transformative as Rofel Anne gained practical skills and problem-solving abilities amid the daily tasks of an engineer.
“Today, I stand as a testament to the transformative power of the GIP. I am currently employed as a Junior Sales Engineer at PPI Pazifik Power Inc. in Makati City,” she shared.
She added, “I am living proof that with the right opportunities and determination, anyone can turn their dreams into reality. My journey from novice to professional is a testament to the endless possibilities that await those who dare to pursue their passions and embrace every opportunity for growth.”
From Intern to Livestock Inspector
Interestingly, not even a cum laude graduate like Genesis is spared from the ordeal that many newbies have gone through.
Taking initiative, she applied for a DOLE-facilitated internship program at the City Government of Vigan.
As an intern, Genesis gained valuable knowledge, work ethics, and financial remuneration, which she used to support her siblings.
Not long after, she secured a plantilla position as Livestock Inspector I at the City Veterinary Office.
“I am very grateful to DOLE for the opportunity you gave me as an intern in your program. May you continue these programs that are useful for graduates like us who have difficulty getting work. Again, thank you very much! ”an ecstatic Genesis averred.
Her story exemplifies how the GIP connects compassion with opportunity.
GIP Transforms Lives
Marinel, Rofel Anne, and Genesis are living testaments to the GIP’s significant impact, which effectively transformed what used to be a detrimental block for fresh graduates yearning to start their professional journey.
Their testimonies represent countless success stories from the DOLE’s program and collectively demonstrate its reach.
The program empowers young people, equips them with skills, bridges the gap between education and employment, and opens the door to fulfilling careers in public service.
It’s a testament to DOLE’s commitment to empowering the Ilocos Region workforce, as it strengthens the public service sector with skilled and dedicated individuals.
Are you a young Filipino seeking to launch your career? Consider the DOLE Government Internship Program.
For all we know, your own success story could spark hope among many other fresh graduates who, like Marinel, Rofel Anne, and Genesis, used to climb their way up. (AMB/PIA Region 1)
