The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 5 (Bicol) has allocated PHP14.2 million to provide financial support to qualified beneficiaries of the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) for 2025.

In an interview on Thursday, Labor information officer Johana Gasga said the program targets 3,019 beneficiaries across the region this year, with 40 percent of their salary to be covered by the DOLE and the remaining 60 percent to be shouldered by their employers as part of a counterpart agreement.

“The objective is to help underprivileged but deserving students, including out-of-school youth, pursue and continue their education,” she said in Filipino.

The program was created under Republic Act (RA) 7323 series of 1999 as amended by RA 9547, which encourages the employment of students in government offices during the summer.

Gasga said recipients are required to work for a minimum of 20 days but should not exceed 52 days in a year.

“Although SPES is an employment program, we also encourage students to focus on their studies. That’s why the work period is limited to summer and Christmas vacations, allowing them to be productive while still prioritizing their education,” she added.

Gasga said the DOLE would monitor the working conditions of the students and conduct an orientation for employers about the program.

Beneficiaries

Claire Magsakay, a 22-year-old graduating student from Legazpi City and a five-time beneficiary of the SPES, said the program has been instrumental in easing her financial burdens.

“SPES has helped me by reducing my financial struggles in school. Through this program, I have also gained knowledge and confidence in working at government offices,” Magsakay said.

Daphnie Delloro, a 19-year-old second-year literature student from the Bicol University, also shared her experience.

“This is very important to me as a student. It gives me an idea of how to work and, at the same time, allows me to help my parents financially,” Delloro said.

Meanwhile, at least 403 students from various schools in Albay attended the SPES orientation conducted by the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) and the DOLE at the Albay Astrodome on March 26.

The deployment period is expected to take place in their respective barangays from May 2 to 30. (PNA)