The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Northern Mindanao (DSWD-10) has released PHP8.7 million for its Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) program.

In a news release on Monday, KALAHI-CIDSS Project Development officer Maria Jenell Canonigo said DSWD-10 released the amount to 587 college students and graduates of the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) and Bukidnon State University (BukSU) who participated in its Cash-for-Work Program (CFWP) for 50 days.

Eighteen of the participants were hired even before finishing their CFWP stints.

“For many fresh graduates, the biggest challenge is not finding a job but getting the first opportunity. Employers often require experience, and that is why our program, the CFWP, was created to serve as the bridge,” she said.

The CFWP offers short-term employment to college students and graduates, providing financial support and work experience.

College graduates received PHP461 daily for an eight-hour shift, while enrolled students received PHP230.50 daily for a four-hour work period.

“I’m happy to have joined the program because it helped me financially and had a big impact on me, as every day was a learning experience,” Jhasper Piquero, a BukSU student beneficiary, said.

USTP alumnus Albert Gallogo was hired as secretary at the Admission and Scholarship Office because of the program.

“I started as a replacement for the CFWP because someone did not show up, but today I stand here as someone who found growth, opportunity, and a sense of purpose,” he said in a testimonial message during the program’s culminating activity. (PNA)