The Department of Education (DepEd), in partnership with the Civil Service Commission (CSC), has taken a historic step forward: Junior High School (JHS) and Senior High School (SHS) graduates are now officially recognized as qualified for first-level government positions. This reform, made possible through CSC Resolution No. 2500229, aligns with the administration’s promise to expand job opportunities for young Filipinos.
For the first time, SHS and JHS graduates—especially those from the Technical-Vocational-Livelihood (TVL) track—can use their education as a direct path to public service. Here’s how you or your child can make the most of this opportunity.
What the New CSC Resolution Means
Government Positions Open to SHS and JHS Graduates
The CSC resolution updates qualification standards so that JHS and SHS graduates can apply for entry-level, first-level government jobs such as:
- Administrative Aide
- Data Encoder
- Utility Worker
- Clerk
- Technician
- Skilled trades (e.g., electricians, mechanics)
- Support roles in public schools, hospitals, and LGUs
These jobs fall under clerical, technical, custodial, and skilled trades—and do not require a college degree.
Who Is Eligible?
To be considered for these positions, you must:
- Be a Junior High School or Senior High School graduate, with a diploma recognized by DepEd.
- Meet any additional training or experience required by the specific job post.
- Possess the appropriate eligibility, such as passing a civil service exam or having a skills certificate (for some technical jobs).
- Apply under the merit-based selection process of the hiring government agency.
Step-by-Step Guide to Avail of These Jobs
Step 1: Identify the Jobs That Match Your Skills
Visit government job portals or bulletin boards like:
- CSC Job Portal
- JobStreet Government Jobs
- Local government unit (LGU) HR offices
Look for positions labeled as “First Level Eligibility” or “entry-level” that list SHS or JHS diplomas as acceptable education.
Tip: Focus on job openings in public schools, barangay offices, and municipal departments—many are seeking clerical or tech-voc talent.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
You will typically need:
- High school diploma (JHS or SHS)
- Transcript of Records (TOR) or Form 137
- Resume or Personal Data Sheet (PDS) – available on the CSC website
- Civil Service Eligibility Certificate (if available)
- Certificates of training or NC II from TESDA (if required for the job)
Tip: Even if a job requires civil service eligibility, you can still apply under temporary or contractual status while working on eligibility.
Step 3: Secure Civil Service Eligibility (If Required)
For many jobs, you need to pass a Civil Service Examination. The main types are:
- Sub-Professional Eligibility Exam – Ideal for SHS/JHS grads aiming for first-level jobs.
- Honor Graduate Eligibility (PD 907) – For graduates with honors.
- Skills Eligibility – For those with TESDA certifications in trades.
Visit the CSC website to register and check testing dates.
Step 4: Apply to Open Positions
Submit your application through:
- CSC online portals
- Government agencies’ HR offices
- Barangay halls or LGU employment centers
Be sure to include all documents and tailor your resume to the role.
Tip: Practice your interview skills. Government interviews often ask about your public service motivations, teamwork, and skills learned in SHS.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply for a government job without taking the Civil Service Exam?
Yes, but only for jobs that don’t require eligibility or where agencies accept temporary hires. However, you’ll need to pass the exam later to become permanent.
Is this only for SHS graduates from public schools?
No. Graduates from both public and private DepEd-recognized institutions are eligible, as long as they have proper documentation.
Do I need a TESDA certificate?
Not always. But for technical jobs (like electrician, cook, or IT technician), having a National Certificate (NC) from TESDA boosts your chances.
How do I know if a job is “first-level”?
Jobs marked “First Level Eligibility” or those that only require high school or tech-voc training fall under this category. These are non-supervisory roles that involve manual, clerical, or technical work.
When does this policy take effect?
Fifteen days after it was published in the Official Gazette or a widely circulated newspaper. You can confirm the effectivity date through the DepEd or CSC websites.
Impact: What This Means for You and the Nation
This reform is more than just a policy—it’s a gateway to employment for thousands of Filipino youth. By recognizing the readiness of SHS and JHS graduates, the government:
- Expands job access without requiring college degrees
- Validates the K–12 curriculum as career-ready
- Fills important public service roles with young, trainable workers
As Education Secretary Sonny Angara said, this is a long-overdue recognition of what SHS students are trained for: real-world skills, job readiness, and a chance to serve.
Conclusion
For years, high school diplomas seemed like a stepping stone only to college. But with CSC Resolution No. 2500229, they now carry real economic value and career possibilities—especially in government.
If you’re a recent graduate—or a parent of one—this is your moment. Don’t wait for an opportunity to find you. Use this guide, prepare your documents, and apply with confidence. Public service is no longer out of reach.