CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — The Provincial Government of Pampanga, in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), distributed financial and livelihood assistance to college students and small-scale entrepreneurs on December 4 at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center.

Led by Governor Lilia Pineda and Vice Governor Dennis Pineda, a total of ₱24.7 million was awarded to 2,008 student-beneficiaries of the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES). Each beneficiary received ₱12,300 after rendering 20 days of service as encoders for various provincial programs.

Meanwhile, 113 micro-entrepreneurs received livelihood grants amounting to ₱2.2 million from DOLE to help expand their small businesses. Individual grants ranged from ₱15,000 to ₱30,000.

Governor Pineda said the initiative reflects the province’s commitment to supporting youth employment and strengthening local enterprises as part of its efforts to promote inclusive and sustainable growth.