South Cotabato, Philippines – Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to creating employment for new graduates, underscoring active partnerships with local industries and investors.
“So far, okay naman tayo dito. Ginagawan na natin ng paraan dahil dumadami na ang graduates at kailangan na talaga na maka-establish ng mga paraan na magkakaroon ng employment opportunities sa ating mga graduates,” Gov. Tamayo said.
He emphasized that partnerships with the private sector are essential in opening concrete avenues for job creation.
South Cotabato’s employment rate increased from 96.5 percent in 2023 to 97.1 percent in 2024, mirroring the upward trend in SOCCSKSARGEN, which rose from 96.8 percent to 97.3 percent, according to the PSA report. This growth is driven by the recovery of local industries, sustained government employment programs, and stronger economic activity in agriculture, services, and manufacturing.
“For two consecutive years, nakakuha kita sang 20,000 new jobs for fresh graduates, and we’re still working na tani ma-maintain kag madugangan pa gid ang amo na nga numero,” Governor Tamayo said.
In relation to these employment initiatives, the governor commended Representative Ferdinand Hernandez for his strong support of educational programs, particularly the scholarship assistance for college students.
“Napakaganda. Dapat matutukan talaga yung education. Dito wala na magiging rason ang estudyante dahil libre na yung tuition nila. So, tama naman yung kay congressman dahil bumaba naman talaga yung mga kabataan na umaaral at tumaas yung rating ng mga drop out dahil hindi kinaya yung pag-aaral,” he explained.
He thanked Congressman Ferdinand Hernandez for his initiatives, emphasizing the vital role of education in reducing dropout rates and empowering the youth.
“Masaya at proud tayo sa ginawa ni Cong. Dinand Hernandez na kahit papaano nakita niya yung problema. Malaking tulong ‘yun, di lang sa Region 12 kundi sa buong Pilipinas,” he added.
The representative of South Cotabato’s second district pushed to continue the P60,000 UniFAst during a privilege speech in the lower house recently.
South Cotabato’s drive for free and accessible education, coupled with stronger employment linkages with the business sector, underscores the province’s vision to equip the youth with both knowledge and livelihood opportunities—ensuring that graduates leave school not only educated but fully prepared for the workforce.
