A total of 67 youth beneficiaries in Tubod, Lanao del Norte have gained valuable work experience and financial support for their studies after completing their employment under the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES). Each beneficiary received a salary amounting to P4,528 to help sustain their education.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Office X, through its Lanao del Norte Provincial Field Office, formally awarded Certificates of Completion to the participants and released the corresponding 40 percent DOLE share of their salaries amounting to P296,676. The remaining 60 percent was shouldered by their employer-implementer.
Among the ‘SPES babies’ is 23-year-old Mary Jane S. Hemando from Tangueguiron, Tubod, Lanao del Norte, who graduated from Tubod College and is now the first degree-holder in her family.
Hemando expressed her gratitude to DOLE-X Lanao del Norte Provincial Field Office for helping make her dream possible through the implementation of SPES.
“Ang SPES usa sa nitabang kanako aron makatapos ug makapadayon sa akong pangandoy. Kini nga oportunidad posible tungod sa walay puas nga suporta sa DOLE-LDNPFO, nga nakigpagpartner sa among LGU aron mapatuman ang SPES ug mapalapdan ang tabang sa mga estudyanteng sama nako (SPES was one of the programs that helped me finish my studies and continue pursuing my dreams. This opportunity was made possible through the unwavering support of DOLE-LDNPFO, which partnered with our LGU to implement SPES and extend assistance to students like me),” she said.
Meanwhile, DOLE-X Lanao del Norte Provincial Head Criste O. Perfecto commended the LGU of Tubod for successfully implementing the program and encouraged the beneficiaries to maximize the opportunity. “SPES is not only a means to earn while on break but also a chance to learn workplace values and skills that will prepare you for your future careers,” she said.
