DOLE Kalayaan Day Highlights Jobs, Aid and Youth Support

In line with the 127th Philippine Independence Day celebration, the Department of Labor and Employment Regional Office 6 launched a series of community-centered activities across Western Visayas, in addition to the Kalayaan Job Fair in Bacolod City.

With a focus on improving workers’ economic conditions, supporting entrepreneurship, and protecting children’s welfare, DOLE reaffirmed its commitment to creating sustainable opportunities for vulnerable sectors in the region.

In Roxas City, Capiz, 22 students from Hercor College under the Special Program for Employment of Students received PHP225,720 in wages.

The program offers employment to poor but deserving students to help finance their education.

Another SPES payout took place at Colegio de la Purisima Concepcion in Roxas City, benefiting 25 students with a total wage of PHP102,600.

This is part of DOLE’s ongoing effort to provide educational support through youth employment in marginalized communities.

In Pandan, Antique, DOLE’s Antique Field Office turned over PHP500,000 worth of baking tools and equipment to the Pandan Multi-Purpose Cooperative under its Adjustment Measures Program.

The assistance aims to help the cooperative produce a steady supply of bread, such as Karabuns, for local schools as part of the Department of Education’s feeding program.

This support will enable the cooperative to meet growing demand from schools, families and local communities.

The World Day Against Child Labor was also marked in other parts of the region.

DOLE’s Aklan Field Office organized the Takbo Para sa Batang Malaya, held as part of the Bayani Run in Aklan.

Hundreds of participants joined the race to raise awareness on children’s rights and the fight against child labor.

DOLE’s role in organizing and sponsoring the event emphasized its commitment to social justice and community involvement.

In Guimaras, the Project Angel Tree took place in Nueva Valencia, aimed at supporting parents of child laborers through services, goods and food packs.

Regional Director Atty. Sixto T. Rodriguez Jr. pledged PHP3 million in support for Barangay Panobolon’s Livelihood and TUPAD Programs to create jobs and strengthen economic stability in the island-barangay.

Another recipient of the Adjustment Measures Program during Kalayaan Day was L’Art De Café in Barotac Viejo, Iloilo.

DOLE, through its Iloilo Field Office, granted PHP500,000 for the café’s renovation, new equipment and staff training to benefit the owner, manager, supervisor and workers.

Through these efforts, DOLE Region 6 not only honors the nation’s independence but also empowers workers, students and communities across Western Visayas.