The Department of Labor and Employment in Davao Region (DOLE-Davao) has marked a significant achievement in youth employment for 2025. The agency successfully deployed approximately 4,753 individuals under its Government Internship Program (GIP). This figure represents a notable 18.8 percent increase from the 4,000 beneficiaries recorded in 2023.
Breakdown of Beneficiaries and Employment Absorption
Of the total number of interns placed last year, a detailed breakdown shows that 1,097 were senior high school graduates, while 2,620 were college graduates. The program proved to be a direct pathway to employment for many, with 453 interns being absorbed into permanent positions during their internship stint. The majority, 411, found roles within public sector institutions, and 42 joined private establishments.
These GIP beneficiaries gained invaluable practical work experience by being assigned to various government offices across the Davao region. DOLE-Davao Regional Director, Atty. Randolf C. Pensoy, emphasized that the growing number of participants highlights the program's substantial impact. He stated it is a clear testament to the department's role in employment generation, community development, and enhancing public service. The initiative, he added, is crucial in preparing the youth to become capable and socially responsible contributors to nation-building.
Life-Changing Experiences for Young Graduates
The program is designed to bridge the gap between education and the workforce, offering fresh graduates a critical opportunity to gain experience without the immediate pressure of a competitive job search. Success stories from former interns underscore its transformative value.
Paul Adrian S. Jabagat, a former intern at the DOLE-Davao City Field Office who now works as an administrative officer in a private company, shared his insights. His internship provided a deep understanding of how public service operates and impacts citizens' lives. "It instilled confidence, compassion, and the importance of balance in labor relations. This perspective helps me carry out my role now with fairness and integrity," Jabagat recalled. He also credited the program for teaching him essential workplace skills like adaptation, time management, task handling, and professional communication.
Precious Ann Ortillano, a GIP intern currently assigned to the DOLE-Davao Regional Office, expressed similar gratitude. "At a young age, being part of the GIP helped me become more independent and confident. This program was more than just an internship; it was a life-changing experience that allowed me to gain real-world exposure while still learning and growing as a young individual," she said.
Program Expansion and Community Engagement
DOLE-Davao has broadened the scope of the GIP beyond office work through GIP Care, a youth-led initiative promoting social responsibility. Interns have actively participated in community activities such as blood donation drives, donations of school and sports equipment, tree-planting, and gift-giving projects.
Furthermore, a strategic convergence program was launched with the Department of Education (DepEd). This partnership involves deploying GIP interns to selected public schools in the region to support the implementation of DepEd's Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (Aral) program. Under this collaboration, approximately 22 GIP interns who hold education degrees will be deployed as Aral tutors, directly contributing to the educational recovery efforts in Davao.
The consistent growth of the Government Internship Program in Davao demonstrates its vital role as a launchpad for the region's youth, equipping them with skills, experience, and a sense of civic duty that benefits both their personal futures and the broader community.
