IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay (PIA) - The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-9 Zamboanga Sibugay Field Office recently hosted a culminating activity to mark the successful culmination of the Government Internship Program (GIP), bringing together 200 interns from across the province.

The event not only marked the success of the program but also recognized the dedication of interns who completed their 3-  to 6- month internship, applauding their commitment and acknowledging the transformative journey they undertook during this period.

Mary Love Sale, who graduated with Latin honors and was an intern at the SSS Ipil branch, expressed her gratitude for the invaluable experience gained through the GIP. 

"Thank you for this opportunity; it honed me into the person I am today. My hands-on experience at SSS developed my patience, especially in dealing with different people," Sale shared.

Michael Macrohon, the focal point of GIP in Zamboanga Sibugay, appreciated the interns for their commitment to the program. He emphasized that being part of the GIP not only brought financial benefits but also equipped them with firsthand experience in government work. 

"You are lucky to be part of this program and you’ve touched the lives of the clients that you have served," Macrohon said.

Imae Cabarles, a licensed professional teacher representing DOJ-Sibugay, shared her inspiring GIP journey.  She applied in June 2021, starting as an intern in the same department, and worked her way up to become a job order employee in January 2022 before landing a permanent employment in March 2023. Her story underscores the program's capacity to catalyze professional growth and secure lasting employment opportunities.

Addressing the interns, she said, "You are blessed to be part of the DOLE GIP because it opens doors to opportunities in the government sector, leading to decent employment and financial assistance for you and your family, like what happened to me."

The event also acknowledged the support of partner agencies, with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-Sibugay being one of the agencies recognized for its unwavering commitment to the program. The agency is supportive of the program, recognizing its role in molding interns into individuals capable of adapting to changes and thriving in dynamic work environments.

As the DOLE-9 ZSFO celebrates the success of the Government Internship Program, it is evident that the initiative not only provides financial benefits but also serves as a stepping stone for interns, opening doors to future opportunities in the government sector. 

The heartfelt expressions of gratitude from interns and the support of partner agencies like PIA highlight the positive impact of the program on both individuals and the community.  (NBE/KSA/EDT/RBI/PIA9-Zamboanga Sibugay)