Bacolod: Students and graduates of two state universities in the Negros Island Region (NIR) have received financial relief through the Department of Social Welfare and Development's (DSWD) Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) cash-for-work program.
According to Philippines News Agency, the recent data revealed that 125 students and graduates from Central Philippines State University (CPSU) in Negros Occidental and 120 students and graduates from Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) benefited from the program. These beneficiaries engaged in temporary employment, receiving financial support in exchange for their work with government offices and partner institutions.
Negros Occidental 6th District Representative Mercedes Alvarez observed the final payout to recipients at CPSU, praising the initiative for providing the Negrense youth with opportunities for success. "This program gives temporary employment and much-needed financial support to economically disadvantaged students and graduates," Alvarez stated, emphasizing the value of the program in supporting young individuals in their educational and career endeavors.
One notable participant is Francis An Marie de los Reyes, an English Language student at the CPSU main campus in Kabankalan City, who shared her experience of overcoming financial challenges with the help of the program. "The KALAHI-CIDSS cash-for-work program became a great help by allowing me to cover my boarding house expenses, school essentials, and daily meals while teaching me the value of hard work," de los Reyes expressed, highlighting the positive impact on her educational journey.
Beneficiaries participated in varying durations of work, with students rendering 50 days and graduates 25 days of employment, each receiving PHP13,500 in total financial assistance. The program aims to create meaningful opportunities for students in state universities and colleges, offering both financial aid and short-term employment as they engage in productive activities that benefit their institutions and communities.
