The Provincial Employment Services Office (PESO) of Davao Oriental has recently undergone evaluation for its readiness in the implementation of the JobStart Philippines (JPS) program, positioning itself as one of the eight out of 17 PESO offices nationwide under consideration.
Representatives from the Bureau of Labor and Employment (BLE) visited the province on Monday, June 15, 2024, for an ocular inspection to assess Davao Oriental’s readiness as a potential JobStart area for Fiscal Year 2025. This initiative by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) aims to enhance the employability of Filipino youth aged 18-24, particularly those not in education, employment, or training (NEET).
Established under Republic Act No. 10869 in 2016, JobStart Philippines strives to assist young Filipinos in starting their careers and securing meaningful, paid employment. The program aims to shorten the youth’s school-to-work transition and establish modern, full-cycle employment facilitation services at PESOs.
The selection process for new JobStart areas is highly competitive, with only eight PESO offices nationwide being chosen for this evaluation round. The inclusion of PESO Davao Oriental, recommended by DOLE Region XI, underscores its potential as a capable program implementer.
Mr. Rolando M. Tumamao Jr. explained that the assessment examines factors such as staff complement, infrastructure, office equipment, budget, program management, service delivery, communication and advocacy, networking and linkages, the Public Employment Information System (PEIS), and client satisfaction.
He highlighted the three main phases of JobStart: Life Skills Training (LST), Technical Training, and Internship. The first phase, Life Skills Training, is a ten-day program designed to develop JobStart trainees’ soft skills, such as behavior, attitude, and values. The second phase involves up to three months of technical training provided through TESDA-accredited Technical Vocation Institutions (TVIs), partner employers, PESO, or online programs. The third phase consists of a two to three-month internship with a matched employer, where interns receive at least 75% of the minimum wage. The total program duration is six months and ten days.
The results of this assessment are expected before the end of July. PESO Davao Oriental is already gearing up for this potential new role, with key figures including PESO Manager Mr. Restie N. Aguilon and Employment Facilitation Division In-Charge Mr. Reynold M. Labayan, in close collaboration with DOLE-DOFO.
JobStart Philippines initially launched in select areas of the National Capital Region, such as Taguig. The potential inclusion of Davao Oriental signifies a significant expansion, promising valuable employment opportunities for the province’s youth. With continued efforts from PESO Davao Oriental and DOLE’s support, the future looks bright for young job seekers in the province. By Erica Albao
