Ilocos norte: Fifty-one volunteer workers from this city received PHP627,300 in salary under the Ilocos Norte government's short-term employment assistance program on Tuesday to help cover their daily expenses amid soaring oil prices. Each beneficiary received PHP12,300 for 20 days of work under the Holiday Employment Assistance Program (HEAP) led by the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) of the provincial government.
According to Philippines News Agency, Dominic Peralta, chairman of the Samahang Ilokano Kabagis Laoag Chapter, expressed gratitude for the initiative. Peralta noted that the amount received from the provincial government will serve as a livelihood support fund for their non-profit organization, which has chapters both locally and internationally. The beneficiaries initially offered community services during the holiday season and continued their support in February for the Tan-ok Festival, assisting in maintaining cleanliness and organization before, during, and after the event.
During the salary distribution, Ilocos Norte Gov. Cecilia-Araneta Marcos acknowledged the contributions of the volunteer workers in supporting various provincial activities. She thanked them for their service and encouraged continued efforts to serve the province for the public's benefit. Meanwhile, as oil price hikes impact drivers and commuters, the Ilocos Norte government, alongside national agencies, has implemented contingency measures to ensure stability. Initiatives include ongoing short-term employment programs like HEAP.
Anne Marie Lizzette Atuan, PESO Ilocos Norte manager, stated in a media interview that more job opportunities will be available this year to support job seekers and displaced workers, with a special focus on student employment. Atuan mentioned partnerships with the Department of Labor and Employment, local government units, and private employers to provide marginalized earners with increased earning opportunities. The provincial PESO also maintains an online jobs portal to facilitate job searching and employment within the province through an efficient and technologically advanced process.
Ilocos Norte continues to lead the Ilocos Region in employment rates, followed by Ilocos Sur, Pangasinan, and La Union.
