South Cotabato, Philippines — A total of 71 beneficiaries are set to increase valuable workplace experience through the South Cotabato Government Internship Program (GIP), providing fresh graduates and unemployed individuals an opportunity to develop their skills while gaining exposure to the professional work environment.
The program offers short-term employment to individuals who have yet to acquire work experience in public or private establishments. Through their internship, beneficiaries are given opportunities to learn actual workplace practices, enhance their competencies, and become better prepared for future employment.
According to Flora G. Montoya, the program is designed to serve as a bridge for individuals who are entering the workforce for the first time.
“The South Cotabato Government Internship Program is a short-term employment opportunity designed for fresh graduates and unemployed individuals who have yet to gain work experience in both public and private establishments. Through this program, interns are given the chance to acquire professional learning experiences, gain exposure to the real-world work environment, and develop the necessary skills and competencies that will prepare them for future employment in either the public or private sector,” Montoya said.
Each GIP beneficiary will receive a ₱460 daily salary during the internship period.
Meanwhile, Miechell Victoriano, Program Holder of GIP, emphasized the importance of the opportunity not only in providing temporary employment but also in helping beneficiaries build confidence and workplace skills.
“This program is more than just an opportunity to earn. We want our beneficiaries to experience what it is like to work in a professional environment, understand their responsibilities, and develop skills that they can use in their future careers,” Victoriano said.
Victoriano also encouraged the beneficiaries to maximize their time in the program by being responsible, receptive to learning, and committed to their assigned tasks.
“Every task, every interaction, and every challenge they encounter can become part of their learning. We hope that when they complete the program, they will not only have work experience but also have greater confidence in pursuing their career goals,” she added.
The GIP also provides beneficiaries with an opportunity to become familiar with government operations and public service, allowing them to contribute to the delivery of services while developing their professional competencies.
The Provincial Government of South Cotabato continues to support employment and workforce development initiatives that help young people and first-time job seekers transition from education to employment.
Through the GIP, the provincial government aims to equip beneficiaries with practical experience, workplace values, and skills that can help prepare them for sustainable employment opportunities in the future.
