In a proactive move to bridge the gap between classroom learning and the professional world, Labogon National High School (LNHS) successfully conducted a large-scale Job Interview Simulation for its senior students. The event, held on December 17, 2025, saw the active participation of 213 Grade 12 learners at the school gymnasium, equipping them with crucial experience ahead of their mandatory work immersion.
Building Confidence and Professional Etiquette
Organized by school and internal linkages officer Jou Ann Baguio, the simulation was meticulously designed to mirror real-world hiring scenarios. Its core objectives were to enhance the students' communication skills for workplace interactions and to instill proper professional interview etiquette. The activity serves as a direct preparatory step for the Department of Education's Work Immersion Program, which requires Grade 12 students to complete 100 hours of training at a chosen company.
"This Job Interview Simulation activity equips Grade 12 students with essential employability skills by providing a realistic interview experience that builds confidence, strengthens communication abilities and promotes professional behavior," Baguio explained. She emphasized that the event supports the Work Immersion Program's goals by enabling students to practice presenting their qualifications effectively and showcasing thorough self-preparation.
A Structured and Realistic Experience
The program commenced with essential safety protocol reminders delivered by student responders from the School Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (SDRRMO), followed by an opening prayer and the singing of the national anthem. The event was smoothly hosted by students Carl Terrence Booc and Giannie Therese Betuin.
To ensure an authentic assessment, the school enlisted a panel of actual professionals and educators to serve as interviewers. The panel included Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) chairman Janice Mondares and SK councilors Christian Maluya and Roxanne Manatad. They were joined by a dedicated group of LNHS teachers:
- Marvin Quilaquil
- Edgar Mertado
- Joan Martinez
- Joan Codoy
- Rea Kristy Lazareno
- Kirsten Maree Tumabiene
- Gin Ryan Torrefiel
- Reyvienal Rodriguez
- Judelynn Librinca
- Ganjet Castillon
- Hazel Sinining
- Syra Entero
- Wendell Thaddeu Blanco
- Bernard Clent Kennedy Maluya
Student Insights and Program Alignment
The simulation left a significant impact on the participants. Grade 12 student Bianca Aguanta shared her valuable takeaways from the experience. "I have learned the importance of self-preparation, being confident and honest to myself," Aguanta reflected. "During the job interview, I gained tips in delivering thoughts in answering the questions properly and the experience taught me to believe in myself that I can and stay calm though I felt so nervous."
This immersive activity is strategically aligned with DepEd Order 30, s. 2017 (Work Immersion Guidelines). The order aims to develop learners' work ethics, interpersonal skills, and overall job readiness—key competencies needed for a smooth transition from academic life to employment or further training. By simulating the pressure and format of a real job interview, Labogon National High School is taking concrete steps to ensure its graduates are not just academically proficient, but also professionally poised and ready to contribute to the workforce.
