In a significant move to support the youth, Surigao City has initiated the JobStart Philippines program, aimed at aiding young jobseekers. The program was officially launched following a memorandum of agreement signed by Mayor Pablo Yves Dumlao II and Joffrey Suyao, Director of the Department of Labor and Employment in Caraga (DOLE-13), on January 15, 2025. This initiative is set to benefit at least 100 out-of-school youths by providing them with essential career coaching and life skills training. The program targets individuals aged 18 to 24 who are currently not engaged in education, employment, or training. Additionally, it offers technical training and internship opportunities to prepare participants for the workforce. The funding for this program, which covers all aspects from life skills to job placement, is directly provided by DOLE-13. Mayor Dumlao expressed his gratitude towards DOLE for their efforts in empowering the city’s young workforce.
