The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the provincial government of Apayao have partnered to provide financial assistance to job seekers, helping cover transportation and processing costs as they look for employment.

According to Apayao information officer Joyce Arian Soria, the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF) payout on July 4 supported 17 initial beneficiaries under the Apayao Barangay Social Welfare Worker (ABSWW) program.

She added that more disbursements are expected in the coming weeks.

“The EAF is a pre-employment support covering daily allowances and transportation expenses to ease the beneficiaries’ transition to formal work,” Soria said in a statement on Monday, adding that the assistance aims to reduce upfront costs often faced by job seekers, particularly those from remote barangays.

Governor Elias Bulut Jr. commended the initiative of DSWD for its continued partnership with local governments and highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration in expanding access to employment across the province.

Meanwhile, Edelyn Fernandez from Flora, Apayao, expressed her gratitude for this effort that helped her and many other job seekers.

“This employment assistance is a huge help in our preparations to get hired, especially in covering daily expenses and transportation,” she said in a statement shared by the Apayao Public Information Office.

She also expressed hope that the program would continue to benefit others striving to improve their lives and support their families.

The initiative aligns with the province’s Development Agenda by promoting inclusive access to livelihood opportunities and reducing obstacles to employment. (PNA)