CEBU CITY -- A Cebuano lawmaker has filed a bill which seeks to institutionalize the government internship program.
Under House Bill 6926 that was filed by Cebu City 2nd District Rep. Eduardo Rama Jr., interns serving the agencies and offices in the government will be paid equivalent to Salary Grade 1.
"The Government Internship Program (GIP) aims to provide opportunities and to engage the youth to serve the general public in government agencies and offices, both at national and local levels,” Rama said.
The bill which was filed in January 2023, will give an opportunity to the youth aged 18 to 30 years old with no work experience, to avail of the program as long as they meet the qualifications stated under Section 7 of the said bill, Rama said.
"This is not only limited to students who are seeking experience in the government but also to disadvantaged individuals like victims of armed conflict, rebel returnees, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and even indigenous beneficiaries," Rama added.
The lawmaker added that the current practice of the internship adds a burden to students because some do not receive an allowance or stipend.
"We have proposed that interns shall be provided with a stipend amounting to 75% of the existing rate of Step 1, Salary Grade 1 of the government salary standardization law. With this we can encourage more interns to take their internship in government offices," added Congressman Rama.
Under the program, the internship period shall be for a period of three to six months.
Interns shall be given a chance to be hired or absorbed as a contractual, temporary, or regular employee.
"Given that this program provides a stipend to every individual enrolled in the GIP, we will also be prioritizing those that are in need such as the indigents. So, applicants with a Certificate of Indigency shall be prioritized," the lawmaker said.
Should the bill be passed into law, the Department of Labor and Employment shall manage and supervise the implementation of the program.
"As someone who entered public service at a young age, I can say that this program will surely open a lot of doors for interested applicants and provide them with a fruitful experience, while also giving them a new appreciation for public service and volunteerism. Serving the public, doing something that helps improve people’s lives, gives you a deep sense of fulfillment which I hope they experience.” explained the Congressman.
In the proposed bill, interns shall also be entitled to insurance coverage of not less than P50,000.