The Department of Trade and Industry Region 3 (DTI-3) is set to host the 26th Likha ng Central Luzon Trade Fair from October 16 to 20, 2024, at SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.
Tess Magtanong, DTI Bataan information officer, told the Bataan press that the event will feature over 140 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from Central Luzon, showcasing a wide range of food and non-food products. Special sections will highlight the best products from the One Town, One Product (OTOP) program and those produced using Shared Service Facilities (SSF). Visitors can also enjoy daily craft demonstrations and a coffee and beverages corner. The Likha ng Central Luzon Trade Fair is an annual event organized by the Department of Trade and Industry Region 3 (DTI-3) in partnership with the private sector. It serves as a platform for MSMEs from the seven provinces of Central Luzon to showcase their products to a broader market, fostering growth and opportunities for local industries.
Building Futures: DOLE’s Drive to Empower Central Luzon Youth Through Employment By Mhike Cigaral The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has been actively addressing youth unemployment and supporting students and fresh graduates in Central Luzon through various employment programs. During the 17th episode of the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas, DOLE Assistant Regional Director Alejandro Inza Cruz emphasized that thousands of young individuals have benefited from these initiatives, gaining both work experience and financial support.
One of the primary programs highlighted was the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES), which connects students to job opportunities, allowing them to earn while continuing their education. As of August 2024, more than 15,000 students have benefited from SPES. This program not only provides financial assistance but also equips students with valuable work experience, preparing them for future employment.
Another key initiative is the Government Internship Program (GIP), which offers hands-on experience to fresh graduates. Cruz highlighted that the GIP helps interns develop a sense of civic responsibility and prepares them for potential careers in government or other sectors.
In 2024, DOLE collaborated with 21 national government agencies, providing internships to 4,101 young individuals across Central Luzon. The effectiveness of these programs is reflected in the number of interns transitioning into permanent roles. In 2023, 55 interns secured jobs with DOLE’s program partners, and in 2024, 56 have already been hired. Cruz urged fresh graduates to take advantage of the opportunities offered through these programs by visiting DOLE provincial offices. DOLE has also worked closely with local government units (LGUs) to provide practical work experience for interns, assigning them to roles relevant to their fields of study. Interns are compensated with a minimum wage of P500 per day and are eligible for up to P32,000 in earnings over a three-month period. The programs aim to provide both immediate employment and long-term career opportunities for the youth in the region.
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