Some 2,657 students in Isabela have earned while learning through the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said Thursday.

In a statement, DOLE-Isabela chief Evelyn Yango said the SPES beneficiaries were paid the minimum wage of PHP420 per day, or a total of PHP8,400 for 20 days of work.

The recipients were hired during the second quarter of the year in the province, with the respective local government units providing 60 percent of the salary while the DOLE provided the remaining 40 percent.

Yango also highlighted SPES’s role in balancing education and earning.

“SPES aids students financially and imparts essential work experience, paving a strong career path. Serving these students, we are committed to expanding the said program through partnerships,” she added.

Students from various schools in the province of Isabela actively engaged in diverse tasks for SPES, such as clerical work, community service and field assignments that provided them with valuable experience, skill development and work ethics.

Yango thanked the partners, especially the local governments, for ensuring students’ safety and valuable work exposure.

This includes direct engagement with office programs and services for enriching hands-on experiences.

The SPES program offers a year-round student employment to support education and provide practical experience.

The DOLE-Isabela partners with local governments, private enterprises and non-government organization to secure job placements and diverse opportunities for students. (PNA)