ZAMBOANGA CITY- The Department of Labor and Employment Regional Office 9 (DOLE RO 9) through its Technical Support and Services Division (TSSD), successfully conducted an orientation for 26 beneficiaries of the Government Internship Program (GIP) on July 31, 2023 at the WODP Training Center, DOLE Regional Office 9, Sta. Catalina, this City.

The GIP is one of DOLE’s employment programs aimed at providing young workers opportunities to actively participate in government agencies/entities’ projects and programs at both the national and local levels. By engaging the talents and skills of these young individuals in the field of public service, GIP aspires to attract the best and brightest minds, cultivating their interest in pursuing a career in government service.

Engr. Wesley D. Tan, Chief Labor and Employment Officer and Head of DOLE 9-TSSD, extended a warm welcome to the GIP interns. In his message, he emphasized the value of public service, work ethics and building relationship in fostering positive change in the public service.

“We are delighted to welcome each of you to the Government Internship Program (GIP). This program is designed to empower and equip you with valuable experiences that will shape your path as future public servants. As you embark into government service, I encourage you to immerse yourself fully in every opportunity and let your passion for public service drive you to excel,” said Engr. Tan.

The GIP interns, who were selected from a pool of qualified applicants, will be assigned to 12 partner agencies, including the National Food Authority (NFA), Zamboanga City Health Office, Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), LandBank (KCC and Zamboanga City Main Branch), City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Bureau of Treasury (BOTr), Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone Authority (ZAMBOECOZONE), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB).

Ms. April Jane C. Barretto, Labor and Employment Officer III and Program Focal, conducted a comprehensive orientation, ensuring that the beneficiaries are well-prepared and informed about their responsibilities and privileges during the 3-month engagement period. Ms. Barretto also discussed the objectives of the GIP, as indicated in the Department Order 204-19 or the Guidelines on the implementation of the DOLE GIP, focusing on the specific purpose of nurturing future leaders for public service. She encouraged the interns to take advantage of the learning and career opportunities presented to them, as it could potentially open doors to fulfilling careers in government service. Furthermore, she also shared valuable insights into the diverse projects and programs the interns would be involved in all of which contributes to the government goal of inclusive growth through massive employment generation which aims to increase the employment rate in the region and uplift the lives of the citizens.

Mr. Francis Mariel P. Quintas, GIP intern to be assigned at Bureau of Treasury, expressed his sincere appreciation and anticipations for the internship program. He conveyed, ” I am sincerely grateful to DOLE for the chance to be part of the GIP and work in a government office. I am eagerly looking forward to starting my work, immersing myself in understanding the organization better, and discovering avenues to contribute my skills to the team. Once again, thank you for this wonderful opportunity.”

Ms. Annavic S. Cordova, Senior LEO and HR designate of DOLE 9-TSSD, delivered the closing remarks, expressing her optimism for the growth and development that these interns will achieve during their 3-month internship period.

“As you venture into this Government Internship Program (GIP), I hope you seize every opportunity to learn and grow. Your involvement in public service will undoubtedly be a transformative experience, shaping your perspectives and enhancing your capabilities. Remember, you have the power to create positive change in society, and we are here to support and guide you every step of the way,” said Ms. Cordova.

The GIP internship period will start on August 1, 2023, until November 7, 2023. Each intern will receive a daily stipend equivalent to the minimum wage of the region, which amounts to Php 351.00/day, along with insurance coverage under the Group Personal Accident Insurance (GPAI) of GSIS.

DOLE 9 RD Albert E. Gutib said that the partner-agencies are dedicated to nurturing these young talents, equipping them with practical experiences and skills to become future leaders who will contribute to the betterment of the community and the nation as a whole. END/with reports from AJCBarretto, LEOII, TSSD.