DIPOLOG CITY — Queennie Vallecer's journey from a young mother to Vice President for Academic Affairs at Colegio de San Francisco Javier is a story of resilience and determination.
Her early passion for teaching was ignited when her cousins were born. However, at 19, an unexpected pregnancy disrupted her studies.
Instead of giving up, Vallecer used this challenge to propel herself forward. In June 2023, she returned to school, aided by the Department of Labor and Employment's (DOLE) Career Guidance and Employment Coaching program.
Before, I felt lost. I was going to get a degree, but I didn’t know how to turn it into a career. The program gave me the clarity and confidence I needed.
Queennie Vallecer
Initially required for graduation, Vallecer soon recognized the program's true value. It helped her identify her professional strengths and transformed her approach to job hunting.
Vallecer explained that the skills she acquired, like writing professional emails and proper workplace conduct, allowed her to make a solid first impression.
In 2024, Vallecer began her career as a college instructor, eventually rising to her current leadership role. Her influence on students has been profound.
When students apply her teaching methods and express gratitude, she feels fulfilled. Vallecer encourages perseverance, stating, 'Just believe in yourself. Life is not a race, so just keep moving.'
Preparing the Future Workforce
The transition from education to employment can be daunting. To combat job-skills mismatches in the Philippines, DOLE launched initiatives like Career Guidance and Employment Coaching (CGEC) and Labor Education for Graduating Students (LEGS).
These programs aim to close the gap between academic training and industry needs, addressing the persistent issue of structural unemployment.
CGEC focuses on career advocacy for secondary students, providing insights into growing industries. LEGS prepares graduating students with essential skills and knowledge for the formal economy.
Together, CGEC and LEGS ensure that Filipino workers are not only employable but also empowered and knowledgeable about their rights.