Ilocos norte: About PHP1.3 million under the holiday employment assistance program of the Ilocos Norte provincial government's Public Employment Service Office (PESO), in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), was distributed to 113 beneficiaries on Friday. During the salary distribution at the Provincial Capitol auditorium, Ilocos Norte Governor Cecilia Araneta Marcos thanked the beneficiaries-students, young jobseekers, and unemployed or underemployed adults-for their readiness to serve during the busy holiday season. Each beneficiary received PHP12,300 for 20 days of work.

According to Philippines News Agency, for student-beneficiaries, 60 percent of the funding came from the provincial government, with the remaining 40 percent provided by DOLE. Governor Marcos highlighted the importance of the beneficiaries' contributions to the provincial government, particularly in assisting local government units, supporting tourism activities, and aiding community efforts. She encouraged the beneficiaries to remain active in future initiatives and mentioned new job openings within the provincial government that they may consider for permanent employment.

On Friday, Provincial PESO manager Anne Marie Lizette Bitancor-Atuan explained that the Holiday Employment Assistance Program is designed to offer short-term job opportunities for youth during the holiday season. The program also supports local governments and the Provincial Tourism Office by deploying trained staff for visitor reception, information, and event support, ensuring safe, organized, and welcoming environments across the province.

The target beneficiaries of the program are individuals from financially challenged families. They may work up to 20 days in government offices or tourism facilities, gaining valuable experience, particularly for student beneficiaries.