Some 417 fresh graduates from Pangasinan State University (PSU) reaped the fruits of their 90-day service under the cash-for-work program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
The beneficiaries of the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) gathered at the Bayambang Events Center, Saturday, as social welfare personnel released their salaries.
University President Dr. Elbert M. Galas said he is grateful that DSWD and Senator Imee Marcos through this program, gave the graduates a chance to experience working in the corporate world, adding that most of the university’s beneficiaries passed the March 2024 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LEPT).
“This program is aligned with the university’s mission to immerse students in actual workplaces. More than the pay, the experience you (beneficiaries) have earned surely enriched your professional career. Let us also learn to spend our hard-earned money on things we really need,” Dr. Galas said.
DSWD Regional Director for the Ilocos Marie Angelan Gopalan said the temporary employment under the KALAHI-CIDSS for fresh graduates of state universities was conceptualized after the pandemic as a way to help students who were having a hard time to save money for their requirements.
Some beneficiaries received a maximum of Php36,000 for their three-month job or Php400 per day. The salary was based on the prevailing minimum wage when the work and financial plan was approved, according to DSWD.
Adding to the feeling of excitement inside the hall, are several words of gratitude from the beneficiaries.
Senator Imee Marcos, who was set to lead the distribution of pay-out but was not able to fly in due to the unexpected weather condition, sent her Nutribus in the event. Present during this activity were Representative Rachel Arenas of the 3rd District of Pangasinan; Provincial Board Members Sheila Baniqued, Vici Ventinilla and Raul Sabangan; SINAG President Rosendo So and Philippine Coconut Authority Administrator (former PSU President) Dr. Dexter R. Buted.
For PSU, President Galas was joined by Vice President Ian Evangelista of the Local and International Affairs, Campus Executive Directors and Student Affairs Coordinators from the identified campuses.
Photos: PRPIO Bayambang/The Reflector/SSA
#TatakPSUnian
