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2026 PESO LIPA CITY REFERRAL SYSTEM BRIDGES EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY TO YOUNG LIPEÑA JOBSEEKER
Today, many new entrants in the professional world, finding work opportunities, feel like they are trying to unlock a door without a key.
For 23-year-old Jonna May "Jhanna" Mameng from Barangay Tambo, Lipa City, bridging that employment gap required determination, openness to growth, and the right public employment interventions.
With the proactive intervention of the Public Employment Service Office of Lipa City, Batangas, Jhanna finally unlocked full employment as a Credit and Collection & Marketing Specialist at Lipa Agricultural Development Corporation (LADECO) - a steady, fulfilling role she secured through the active referral and placement initiatives of PESO.
Jhanna’s path to professional stability was not an overnight jump. Her journey began when she participated in the DSWD Cash for Work Program, where she was assigned to assist at PESO Lipa shortly after graduation.
Recognizing her work ethic and eager attitude, PESO officials offered her a slot in the Government Internship Program (GIP), which is a joint initiative with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) designed to expose young Filipinos to public service and workplace dynamics.
From August 16 to November 19, 2025, Jhanna immersed herself in the GIP experience at PESO Lipa.
"Naisip ko na magandang opportunity ang GIP para magkaroon ako ng chance na matuto at ma-develop pa ang aking skills," Jhanna shares.
Interacting with diverse job applicants who walked through the PESO doors gave her a firsthand look at the realities, rejections, and resilience required in job hunting. That exposure grounded her mindset, turning her into a more patient, responsible, and determined candidate.
"Para sa akin, hindi lang ito tungkol sa pagkakaroon ng trabaho, kundi isang chance para magkaroon ng confidence at maging ready sa mga opportunities na darating," she further remarked.
Armed with newfound confidence and actual government office experience, Jhanna transitioned into the private sector shortly after her GIP stint.
While her experience at LIMA Technology Center expanded her operational capabilities, Jhanna’s career path took an even stronger turn when PESO Lipa’s referral mechanism stepped in.
When Lipa Agricultural Development Corporation (LADECO), a long-time partner employer of PESO Lipa, posted openings for their team, the PESO placement staff actively reviewed candidate profiles.
Recognizing Jhanna’s solid administrative background, strong interpersonal skills, and proven track record as a former GIP beneficiary, PESO staff directly recommended her to LADECO’s Human Resources department.
PESO reached out to Jhanna to notify her of the referral, while LADECO’s HR team invited her to submit her credentials and undergo interviews.
Shortly after, Jhanna successfully landed the position of Credit and Collection & Marketing Specialist at LADECO’s main office in Brgy. Sabang, Lipa City.
Jhanna’s trajectory from a Cash for Work participant to a DOLE GIP intern, an HR support practitioner, and now a key specialist at a private company highlights the tangible impact of integrated public employment services.
"Malaking tulong ang DOLE GIP at PESO dahil naging daan ito para mas makilala ko ang mga employment assistance na ibinibigay ng pamahalaan," Jhanna reflected.
Jhanna’s story stands as a testament to what young job seekers can achieve when personal drive meets well-structured government assistance.
"Dahil sa kanila, mas naging aware ako na may mga agency na handang tumulong sa mga kabataan para maging ready sa future career nila. Ang PESO ang naging bridge ko para makuha ang trabaho ko ngayon,” Jhanna concluded.
Through targeted work exposures like GIP and proactive referral networks, PESO Lipa continues to transform potential into permanent, meaningful careers.#
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