DOLE Secretary Francis N. Tolentino met with Cavite Local Government Unit (LGU) representatives to advance sustainable community development and local livelihood initiatives. The courtesy call focused on boosting responsive employment services, including DOLE programs such as TUPAD and the Government Internship Program (GIP), to directly reach workers.
Programs on the Table: From Emergency Employment to Youth Internships
The meeting centered on DOLE's flagship programs designed to provide both immediate relief and long-term employment opportunities for Caviteños. With a ₱61.17 billion budget for 2026, DOLE is expanding its key initiatives :
TUPAD (Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers): A flagship emergency employment program that provides temporary work to displaced workers. Over ₱21 billion is allocated for this program in 2026 . In Cavite, similar initiatives have already benefited farmers and fisherfolk through coastal cleanup and community gardening projects .
Government Internship Program (GIP): Provides young Filipinos with a chance to gain valuable work experience in the government sector. The program received a ₱1.1 billion allocation .
Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES): During the summer and holiday breaks, SPES helps students earn extra income for their education while gaining work experience. This program has been actively implemented in Cavite cities like Carmona .
DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP): A ₱2.6 billion program that provides livelihood assistance, starter kits, and support for sustainable income-generating projects . In Tanza, Cavite, this program recently provided fishing boats, engines, and supplies to local fisherfolk groups .
JobStart Philippines Program: Prepares young Filipinos for employment through career coaching, life skills training, technical training, and internships. The General Trias City PESO has been recognized as a top implementer of this program, achieving an 80% placement rate.
Accessing DOLE Services Through Your Local PESO
The meeting reinforced the vital role of the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) as the primary gateway for DOLE programs and services at the local level . PESO offices in Cavite cities like General Trias, Carmona, and Bacoor actively implement these programs in partnership with DOLE .
To access these services, Cavite residents can contact their local PESO office, which can provide guidance on:
Specific livelihood programs available in your area .
Youth employment programs like SPES and GIP .
Updates on job fairs and career caravans.
