IN A significant step towards empowering the city’s out-of-school youth (OSY), the City Government of Tagbilaran signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with key government agencies and private sector representatives on May 24, 2024 at the City Hall Atrium to implement a comprehensive career readiness program.
The MOA institutionalized the “Employment and Livelihood Program for Out-of-School Youth,” an initiative of the Youth Development Alliance (YDA) of Tagbilaran City.
This program aims to provide career guidance and support to OSY and Alternative Learning System Senior High School (ALS SHS) learners, equipping them with the skills and opportunities needed for gainful employment and entrepreneurship.
Stakeholders present during the MOA signing included City Mayor Jane Yap, representing the City Government of Tagbilaran through the Tagbilaran City Public Employment Service Office (PESO) and the City Livelihood and Community Development Unit; Ms. Joveline Requinto of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) – Region VII; Mr. Blair Panong of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Region VII, Bohol; Ms. Elizabeth Rosil of the Department of Education- Tagbilaran City Schools Division; Mr. Ryan Jay Digal, President of the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Bohol Sandugo; Ma. Margarita Bandija, President of the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP-Bohol); and Engr. Allen Christian G. Varquez of the Bohol Association of Hotels, Resorts, and Restaurants (BAHRR).
In her message during the MOA signing, Mayor Jane Yap said, “This initiative is a testament to our commitment to providing our youth with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed. By working together with various stakeholders, we can create a brighter future for our out-of-school youth.”
Over 50 ALS SHS learners participated in this year’s career guidance seminar held during the same event. After the MOA signing, the participants were provided with the latest labor market trends and information about in-demand jobs in the city. As part of the seminar, the youth also received various training, including life skills and handling job interviews, to increase their employability and help them succeed in their careers.
The institutionalization of this program will guarantee annual career guidance seminars featuring mock interviews for ALS SHS learners, youth entrepreneurship mentoring, and the provision of livelihood opportunities for OSY. Additionally, other relevant training sessions will be offered to ensure that the youth are well-prepared for their future careers.
The City Government of Tagbilaran and its partners are committed to the continuous support and development of the youth, recognizing them as valuable contributors to the community’s growth and prosperity. This initiative marks a pivotal moment in the city’s efforts to uplift and empower its young residents.
