THE Department of Labor and Employment–Davao Region (Dole-Davao) recently trained 450 youth beneficiaries under the Special Program for Employment of Students (Spes) through a series of soft skills training sessions held across the province.
The sessions, conducted on May 6 and 13, 2025, reached a total of 456 participants. The training was held in partnership with Public Employment Service Offices (PESOs), Job Placement Offices (JPOs), and private sector partners.
“These sessions were designed to prepare them for real-world work environments and empower them with the confidence and values needed for future employment,” Dole-Davao said.
The workshops covered topics such as self-confidence, workplace etiquette, time and stress management, financial literacy, teamwork, and professional ethics.
Alchin Mae L. Avenido, a 20-year-old college student from Tagum City, admitted she didn’t know what to expect going in. But by the end of the training, she said the experience left a lasting impact.
“We were taught workplace etiquette and got a glimpse of the reality of public service work. I’m truly grateful for this experience. The knowledge, values, and confidence I gained during my SPES journey went far beyond what I imagined,” she said.
Dole-Davao emphasized that the training helped participants understand not only their tasks but also the deeper purpose behind professional conduct in the workplace. The agency described the initiative as a long-term investment in building a capable and value-driven workforce.
Spes provides temporary employment to deserving students and out-of-school youth from low-income families, helping them earn money for educational expenses—especially during summer and holiday breaks.
Through this training, DOLE-Davao reaffirmed its commitment to creating not just job opportunities for the youth but also empowering them with the skills to thrive in today’s labor market. RGP