The Bacolod City government disbursed Aug. 16 the salaries of 814 students participating in the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES).
The release of P6.7 million for the program was expedited following a memorandum signed by Mayor Greg Gasataya.
During the payout, Gasataya, alongside Public Employment Service Office (PESO) head Mae Llamas and coordinator Jovelyn Canoy, encouraged the student-workers to appreciate both the financial assistance and the valuable experience gained during their 20-day employment.
The mayor also affirmed the city’s commitment to supporting the SPES program and assisting beneficiaries in securing future employment opportunities.
The city also plans to reward students, who graduated with Latin honors.
“As long as you strive to do better in your studies, the government will find ways to help you finish school,” Gasataya said in a city press release Aug. 17.
The summer jobbers, ranging from 15 to 30 years old, were assigned with various tasks, including assisting in surveys, government offices, and partner-organizations. Their 20-day service earned them between P9,600 and P12,300, jointly funded by the local government unit and the Department of Labor and Employment.
Canoy advised the beneficiaries to use their earnings responsibly and to share their blessings with their families.
Vice Mayor Claudio Puentevella, who was also present during the payout, lauded PESO and the city cashier’s office for ensuring the timely release of payments, even on a weekend. ||
