Arroyo signs executive order for a "domestic peace corps"

CEBU, Philippines - President Gloria Arroyo has issued an executive order to establish the so-called “domestic peace corps” for the youth.

In her speech during the Sangguniang Kabataan National Convention held in Panglao Island, Bohol, last week, Arroyo said the executive order would pave the way for the youth to be employed in the two arms of the Youth National Service —the National Service Corps and the Youth Conservation Corps.

Those who will be employed will receive a “modest stipend,” the president said.

The program targets unemployed or underemployed youth between 18 to 24 years old to compose the “domestic peace corps”.

“I call all 6,000 of you present now to help me recruit for the government initiative to generate more jobs,” Arroyo told the SK officials.

The NSC will reportedly target college graduates and even unemployed or underemployed youth to give them a chance to contribute to education and community service programs.The YCC will be composed of unskilled or less-educated youth who will be given the chance to participate in environmental and infrastructure projects.

Arroyo said new executive order will supplement the “Out-of-School Youth Serving Towards Economic Resiliency” or OYSTER Program of government.

In the OYSTER Program, out-of-school youths are given the chance to take on jobs in projects for the environment, government infrastructure and road maintenance in exchange for a modest pay.

In Bohol, Arroyo gave the SK P10 million for its environmental programs. — Ferliza C. Contratista/JMO (THE FREEMAN)