OLONGAPO CITY (PIA) — About 40 young jobseekers from Olongapo City are now set to begin technical training and internships after completing the soft and core skills phase of the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) JobStart Program.
The commencement exercise and mini job fair took place at the SMX Convention Center, SM City Olongapo Central.
DOLE Zambales Field Office Chief Reynante Lugtu highlighted the importance of the program for local youth.
“The JobStart Program is one of DOLE’s flagship employment facilitation programs which aims to enhance the employability of at-risk youth through full-cycle employment facilitation services. We are glad to see these young individuals progress from training to actual work experience,” he said.
The program also aims to bridge the gap between education and employment by preparing youth for the workplace and connecting them with local employers. It provides structured training, mentorship, and opportunities for actual work experience.
Ten employers from various industries joined the mini job fair, offering on-the-spot job matching and internship discussions with the graduates. They also committed to follow DOLE guidelines on structured learning, mentorship, and workplace standards.
The City Public Employment Service Office coordinated the activity, linking the national program with employers and participants.
This collaboration ensures that youth beneficiaries receive both the skills and the workplace access needed for long-term employment.
With the new batch of JobStarters moving into internships, the program continues to create pathways for sustainable careers, contributing to a stronger local workforce and economy. (CLJD/RGP, PIA Region 3-Zambales)
