ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), in partnership with the Public Employment Service Office (PESO), is rolling out the JobStart Philippines (JobStart PH) program in Zamboanga City for the second consecutive year this May, aiming to benefit 85 Zamboangueño youth.
JobStart PH is a full-cycle employment facilitation program designed to boost the employability of at-risk Filipino youth aged 18 to 24 who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET) and have limited formal work experience. The program provides participants with life skills training, technical training with stipends, workplace immersion, and employment coaching. Upon completion, participants receive certifications to support their transition into meaningful employment.
To kick off this year’s implementation, DOLE and PESO conducted a JobStart Orientation and Pre-Interview Career Guidance and Employment Coaching Cum Digital Literacy Training on Thursday, May 15. The activity included sessions on career development, cybersecurity awareness, and a presentation of the program’s salient features. It concluded with the Signing of the Participation Agreement, formalizing the youth’s engagement in the program.
The event was led by key officials from DOLE and PESO, including DOLE Assistant Regional Director Engr. Wesley Tan, Chief Labor and Employment Officer Maria Elena Alabata, JobStart Regional Focal April Jane Salvador, PESO Manager and OIC CHRM Officer Jerico Jan Bustamante, PESO Coordinator and Senior Labor and Employment Officer Juniebe Manganohoy, along with other DOLE and PESO personnel.
Established under Republic Act No. 10869 or the JobStart Philippines Act of 2016, the program continues to support Filipino youth by enhancing their employability and bridging the gap between education and the workforce.
This year’s implementation in Zamboanga reflects the city’s commitment to empowering its young people and preparing them for the demands of the job market.