First photo: Mongolian Delegation with Kelly Bird, ADB Advisor (sixth from the left-back row), BLE Director Patrick P. Patriwirawan, Jr. (third from the left-front row), JSP beneficiaries, and other representatives from DOLE Papamamarisan FO and PESO Mandaluyong City

Second photo: Samantha Joy Arenas (JSP beneficiary) shares her JobStart journey

Third photo: Atty. Romulo Alarcio III shares Astoria Plaza’s JobStart experience

On February 16, 2024, the Bureau of Local Employment (BLE) conducted a briefing on the JobStart Philippines (JSP) program for the Mongolian government delegation from the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection (MLSP). As part of their study tour in the Philippines, the MLSP delegation sought to gain deeper insights into the country's social protection and employment strategies, with a keen interest in the JSP program. This interest stems from their aim to explore innovative approaches to facilitate the integration of young Mongolians into a dynamic labor market landscape.

The activity commenced with opening remarks by ADB Advisor to the Director General of the East Asia Department, Mr. Kelly Bird, followed by expressions of gratitude from BLE Director Patrick P. Patriwirawan, Jr., who acknowledged the invaluable technical assistance provided by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to JobStart Philippines, concluding in March 2022.

Ms. Kyra Querijero, the focal person for JSP, conducted an in-depth briefing on the program, highlighting how the program responds to the strategies under the Philippine Labor and Employment Plan 2023-2028. The floor was then opened for testimonials from three JobStart graduates from Mandaluyong City, now gainfully employed, showcasing the impact of the program on their career path.

Also in attendance was Atty. Romulo Alarcio III, Corporate Legal Counsel of Astoria Hotels and Resorts, a prominent partner employer of JobStart Philippines. The beneficiaries seized the opportunity to express their gratitude and share their personal JobStart journey, emphasizing how the program served as a springboard for their career development. Having been previously unemployed, their participation in the program equipped them with essential life skills, technical training, and internships, paving the way for stable employment within the company.

The technical assistance extended by the Asian Development Bank played a pivotal role in realizing the objectives of the JobStart Philippines Program. By facilitating smoother transitions from school to work for young Filipinos and assisting them in securing meaningful, paid employment opportunities, the program stands as a testament to successful collaboration and shared goals in promoting sustainable employment practices.

END/RKQ