For many students, balancing education with financial needs is a challenge.
The Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) offers a unique opportunity for students and out-of-school youth to gain temporary employment while earning money for their studies.
This program, implemented by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), aims to support young individuals from low-income families by helping them earn an income while gaining valuable work experience.
SPES primarily caters to poor but deserving students, out-of-school youth, and dependents of displaced workers.
It provides job opportunities during summer and Christmas vacations or any time of the year, making it easier for them to continue their education without financial burdens.
The program is partially funded by employers (60%) and DOLE (40%), making it a cost-effective solution for students seeking financial aid.
Who Can Apply for SPES?
SPES is not open to everyone.
The program is specifically designed for students and out-of-school youth who meet the following qualifications:
- Must be between 15 to 30 years old.
- Must be either enrolled in school or an out-of-school youth planning to continue education.
- The combined net income of their family (after tax) must not exceed the regional poverty threshold.
- Students must have a passing General Weighted Average (GWA).
- Out-of-school youth (OSY) must be certified by the Social Welfare and Development Office (SWDO).
If you meet these qualifications, SPES can be a great way to earn money and gain experience while pursuing your education.
Benefits of SPES
SPES is not just about earning money—it’s about building a future.
Here’s what you gain from joining the program:
- Financial Assistance for Education
One of the biggest barriers to education is financial constraints.
SPES helps students cover school-related expenses, such as tuition fees, books, transportation, and daily allowances.
- Valuable Work Experience
Students gain hands-on work experience in government offices, private companies, or community service organizations.
This exposure helps them develop practical skills that will be useful in future employment.
- Flexible Work Schedule
The program is designed to fit academic schedules, allowing students to work without compromising their studies.
Work periods are typically set during school breaks, letting students focus on their academics during the school year.
- Networking and Career Growth
SPES provides an opportunity to connect with professionals and potential employers.
These connections can lead to future job offers, internships, or mentorship opportunities.
Skills Gained and Developed Through SPES
SPES is not just about earning—it’s also about learning.
Participants acquire and improve various skills that are valuable for their future careers.
Some of the most common skills developed include:
- Communication Skills – Engaging with colleagues, customers, and supervisors enhances verbal and written communication.
- Time Management – Balancing work and academic responsibilities builds efficiency and discipline.
- Problem-Solving – Encountering real-world tasks sharpens the ability to think critically and find solutions.
- Adaptability – Adjusting to different work environments and responsibilities fosters resilience and flexibility.
- Technical Skills – Exposure to office work, customer service, or administrative tasks strengthens computer literacy and professional competence.
- Teamwork and Collaboration – Working with different people enhances cooperation, leadership, and relationship-building skills.
These skills make SPES participants more prepared for future job opportunities while improving their confidence and professional growth.
How to Apply for SPES
Applying for SPES involves submitting the necessary documents and meeting the program’s requirements.
Follow these steps to get started:
Step 1: Prepare the Required Documents
Applicants must provide the following documents:
- Duly accomplished SPES Application Form (SPES Form 2).
- Copy of Birth Certificate or any valid document proving date of birth.
- Certification from the School Registrar indicating the applicant’s last enrollment and GWA.
- Copy of the latest Income Tax Return (ITR) of parents or a Certificate of Indigency from the barangay.
- For out-of-school youth, a Certificate of Good Moral Character issued by the barangay.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Submit your documents to the nearest DOLE Field or Provincial Office or any partner local government unit.
Some schools and universities also facilitate SPES applications, so check with your school administration.
Step 3: Wait for Evaluation and Approval
Once submitted, DOLE and partner employers will review applications.
Successful applicants will be notified of their work assignments and schedules.
SPES Application Form
This document/form serves as the official application form for SPES and is required for all applicants.
It gathers personal, educational, and financial details to assess eligibility.
The form can be downloaded from Scribd at this link.
After downloading, applicants should:
- Complete all sections carefully and accurately.
- Attach the necessary documents before submission.
- Submit the filled-out form to the nearest DOLE office or authorized local government unit.
Properly accomplishing and submitting the form helps avoid delays in processing applications.
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What Type of Work Will You Do Under SPES?
The nature of work assigned under SPES depends on the employer and the participant’s skills.
Some common job assignments include:
- Administrative work (filing, data encoding, clerical tasks).
- Customer service assistance in malls, government offices, or community centers.
- Educational support (tutoring, library assistance, research work).
- Community projects (environmental programs, health campaigns, youth development activities).
The work assignments provide exposure to various industries and career fields, making SPES a great stepping stone for future employment.
Tips to Maximize Your SPES Experience
Getting hired under SPES is just the beginning.
Make the most of this opportunity with these tips:
- Be professional and responsible – Treat your SPES job as real work. Arrive on time, follow instructions, and show initiative.
- Learn new skills – Take the opportunity to develop communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
- Network and build relationships – Engage with supervisors and colleagues. They can be great references for future job applications.
- Save and budget your earnings – Use your salary wisely to support your education and essential expenses.
Recent Updates
Coordination Meeting on Youth Programs
A coordination meeting took place with DepEd Tayo Olongapo City’s Guidance Counselors and Coordinators, as well as representatives from various Job Placement Offices (Colleges). Division Guidance Coordinator III Marsha Mojica and Division Focal for Senior High School Programs Corazon Bautista Dumlao were also in attendance. The meeting focused on Mayor Atty. Rolen Paulino Jr.’s youth programs, including the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE Zambales Field Office), the Local Government Internship Program (LGIP), Career Guidance and Coaching, and two new emergency employment programs under the Adaptive and Comprehensive Community Employment and Social Support (ACCESS) program. The discussions aimed to introduce and optimize these initiatives to benefit the youth. The team expressed gratitude for the support and anticipated busy and productive days ahead.
Video: SPES Requirements for Basic and Higher Education Students
Are you a student or out-of-school youth looking for a way to earn while you learn? This #DOLExplains video covers the requirements for SPES applicants in both basic and higher education!
Find out if you qualify and what documents you need to prepare before applying. The Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) provides paid work opportunities to help cover your education expenses and gain valuable work experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is SPES open all year round?
SPES is mainly available during summer and Christmas breaks, but some regions offer year-round placements based on funding availability. - How long is the employment period?
SPES participants can work for a minimum of 20 days up to 52 days, depending on the employer’s requirements. - Can SPES be used as work experience on my resume?
Yes! SPES experience is recognized by employers and can be added to your resume to showcase your skills and work ethic. - Will I be automatically accepted once I apply?
No, applicants go through an evaluation process, and only those who meet the qualifications and requirements are accepted.
Conclusion
The Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) is more than just a part-time job opportunity.
It is a lifeline for students and out-of-school youth who need financial assistance to continue their education.
By joining SPES, young individuals gain work experience, build their professional network, and develop valuable skills while earning income.
If you meet the qualifications, don’t miss out on this opportunity.
Check with DOLE or your local government office and apply for SPES today!