The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE-9) and the Zamboanga City Government celebrated the completion of around 90 youth trainees under the JobStart Philippines Program during a graduation ceremony, held at the Ateneo de Zamboanga University (AdZU) Multi-Purpose Hall Wednesday morning, June 17.

Themed “JobStart 2026: Empowering Youth, Shaping Careers, Inspiring Futures,” the program brought together young participants who underwent training designed to enhance their employability through career coaching, technical skills development, and workplace exposure.

In his message, Mayor Khymer Olaso expressed his appreciation to the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) and DOLE-9 for their continued partnership in providing opportunities that help young Zamboangueños prepare for the labor market.

“The skills you have acquired here will serve as your foundation, but your success will depend on your perseverance, integrity, and willingness to continue learning,” Olaso said.

JobStart Philippines is a youth employment facilitation program of the national government that provides young qualified jobseekers with technical and soft skills training as well as internship opportunities to improve their chances of securing employment. To qualify, applicants must be Filipino citizens aged 18 to 24 who are not currently employed, not enrolled in school, or undergoing formal training, and must have reached at least high school level.

Also present during the ceremony were DOLE-9 Regional Director Albert Gutib, represented by Labor and Employment Officer III Rozel Alayon; City Human Resource Management Officer and PESO Manager Marinyd Tingcang; Ateneo Learning and Teaching Excellence Center Director Rogin Eribal; and other technical staff from DOLE-9, PESO, and AdZU. (Arvin Midel)