SPES and GIP usher a calling of public service

KALIBO, Aklan-What started as a simple summer job for a shy, young student from New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan, has become a lifelong calling of public service. Ivy Jane R. Bantigue, who was once a Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) beneficiary who just wanted to help her family, now serves as the GIP Coordinator at the DOLE-Aklan Field Office —once a mentee, now a mentor.

Born to a modest family, with a father serving in the police force as the sole breadwinner, Ivy learned the value of hard work early in life. As the eldest of three, the dream of helping ease the parents’ burdens while pursuing education grew deep in Ivy’s heart.

Ivy found the courage to step out of the comfort zone upon joining the SPES program. From 2016 to 2018, summer breaks were spent serving at the Local Government Unit of Kalibo — an experience that not only built confidence but also sparked an interest in public service.

“I was quiet and unsure back then,” Ivy admitted. “But I learned how to speak with people, build friendships, and gain confidence in small steps.”

Though naturally shy, with the quiet dedication, Ivy earned a Bachelor of Secondary Education, Major in Mathematics degree, from West Visayas State University, graduating cum laude in 2022. Yet despite these academic achievements, life after graduation was not easy.

“I thought graduating with honors would open doors of employment quickly,” Ivy recalled. “But instead, I found myself walking from office to office, waiting, hoping, and trying again.”

Then came a moment that changed the path ahead. In February 2023, Ivy was accepted as a Government Internship Program (GIP) intern at the DOLE–Aklan Field Office. What began as clerical work soon grew into a deeper journey of service.

“I learned that public service isn’t about big titles or events, it is in the small gestures. Greeting people, listening to their stories, helping them feel they are recognized. That’s when I realized what I wanted to do.”

The silent dedication soon drew attention. During the Association of Southeast Asian Nations–European Union (ASEAN-EU) 2nd Dialogue on Safe and Fair Labor Migration Campaign, Ivy was chosen to serve as the event’s master of ceremony, an unexpected challenge for someone who once preferred to stay behind the scenes. That moment marked a turning point as DOLE Regional Director Atty. Sixto T. Rodriguez Jr., who was present at the event, commended the confidence and courage Ivy displayed.

“The Regional Director told me that confidence opens doors we never expect,” Ivy said. “Those words stayed with me. Growth begins by simply showing up.”

By August 2023, Ivy was entrusted with the role of TUPAD Coordinator, and by May 2024, officially became the GIP Coordinator — leading the program that once gave the lady a chance to start.

“Looking back, I never imagined I would be where I am today,” Ivy shared softly. “SPES and GIP were more than programs to me — they were doors I never knew I needed.”

Today, Ivy continues to serve with the same integrity that once guided the journey through moments of uncertainty. Now mentoring new interns, Ivy offers guidance with empathy, patience, and the quiet strength that continues to inspire others.

“I started out just wanting to help my family,” the lady reflected. “Now, I’m helping others who are walking the same path I once passed. SPES and GIP programs changed my life. I will always be grateful to DOLE for believing in me.”

From a student who once searched for purpose, to now a servant leader who embodies it. Ivy’s story is a gentle reminder that success doesn’t always come in grand leaps — sometimes, it grows quietly, through faith, consistency, and heart.