CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — The Provincial Government of Pampanga, in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), distributed various forms of assistance to help college students and small business owners across the province.
The distribution of assistance was led by Governor Lilia Pineda and Vice Governor Dennis Pineda, together with officials from DOLE and the Provincial Government, during ceremonies held on Thursday, December 4, at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center.
A total of ₱24.7 million in financial assistance was distributed to 2,008 college students under the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES). The beneficiaries rendered 20 days of service as encoders for various programs of the Provincial Capitol. Each student received ₱12,300, with 60 percent funded by the Provincial Government and 40 percent by DOLE.
At the same time, 113 small-scale entrepreneurs were awarded livelihood grants by DOLE to help expand their businesses and strengthen their sources of income. A total of ₱2.2 million was released, with each beneficiary receiving amounts ranging from ₱15,000 to ₱30,000.
“This initiative underscores our commitment to investing in our youth and empowering our small entrepreneurs. Education and livelihood development remain at the core of our programs to build a stronger Pampanga,” Governor Pineda said.
The assistance package highlights the joint efforts of the Provincial Government and DOLE to support students and micro-entrepreneurs, while promoting inclusive growth and sustainable development throughout the province.