Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat – The KALAHI-CIDSS Cash-for-Work (CFW) Culminating Program and Jobs Fair, held at Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU), recently celebrated the achievements of 720 student beneficiaries for their dedicated contributions to various government offices in Sultan Kudarat. The event, which was organized by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) KALAHI-CIDSS, provided both recognition and a platform for career advancement to these students.
Beneficiaries of the program were assigned to government offices across the province, including the provincial hall and city hall, where they took on responsibilities such as paperwork, data encoding, editing, and even storytelling for children during local events. Their involvement not only supported the operations of local government offices but also enriched their professional skills and experience.
During the culminating ceremony, each participant received a certificate of appreciation, a token of gratitude, and financial incentives. Graduates were awarded PHP 11,687, while continuing students received PHP 6,448, acknowledging their hard work and contributions to their respective assignments.
The event also featured a Jobs Fair, offering SKSU students and recent graduates the chance to meet with recruiters, explore potential job opportunities, and participate in on-the-spot interviews. Several students received conditional job offers, bringing immediate benefits to their job search. Coleen Catalan, a beneficiary, expressed her gratitude, saying, “We are thankful that the DSWD KALAHI-CIDSS facilitated this kind of event, allowing us to seek job opportunities even after the CFW program.”
Mr. Abdul, another program participant, emphasized the program’s impact: “This program not only honors the dedication of our Cash-for-Work beneficiaries but also opens new opportunities for students and recent graduates.” Assistant Regional Director Bonifacio V. Selma Jr. also highlighted the program’s mission, stating, “Our aim is to empower communities and equip individuals with the resources and support needed to succeed.”
The DSWD’s KALAHI-CIDSS program has long been a champion of community-driven development through initiatives such as disaster risk reduction and infrastructure improvements. By fostering partnerships with the SKSU administration, the Tacurong City government, and the private sector, the program helps create sustainable livelihoods and employment opportunities in Sultan Kudarat. The success of this recent Culminating Program and Jobs Fair reflects KALAHI-CIDSS’s commitment to local development, empowering communities and young people toward brighter futures.
