Mary Jane receives her certificate of completion.

Two mothers reaped what they have sowed, after the 15-day Pre-Licensing Training for Security Guards, through the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Mary Jane Penaranda from Llorente, Samar and Joeverlyn Rejuso from Leyte, Leyte excitedly started their work last June 14, 2017, after they received their certificates of completion in separate closing ceremonies.

“I am very thankful that we were given by the DSWD an opportunity to undergo free training and access to a decent job,” Joeverlyn, 29, expressed.

Mary Jane and Joeverlyn are one of the lucky graduates who got hired immediately through the help of Wolverine Security Training Academy, Inc. It was part of the agreement between the agency and DSWD that the former will employ the security guards after the training.

“At first, I can’t believe that I got the job. It was so quick. From attending a free training, now I’m a full-fledged lady guard,” Mary Jane, 43, said.

Joeverlyn used to be a Brgy. Agriculture Worker. She shared what a big improvement this opportunity will bring to their family. From 1,000.00 pesos, she will now be earning 14,000.00 pesos per month. It is now enough to provide for their daily needs, a decent home for her children, and savings for her children’s future.

“I may be living away from my family for a while but this is for our children. My eldest is five years old, and the youngest is four years old. Soon they’ll be studying. This is the right time for me to save for their education,” she shared.

On the other hand, Mary Jane used to be a plain housewife but later had an experience working as a lady guard back in 2013.

The real prize is yet to come. Joeverlyn and Mary Jane, together with 14 more graduates have just completed the first step. As they begin with the next step, they are already armed with the self-discipline and motivation to bring sustainability of income to their families, as well as sustainability of peace and order in their communities.

Mary Jane Penaranda is assigned at Savemore , while Joeverlyn, at Robinsons Place, both located in Tacloban City.# #DSWDMayMalasakit

Joeverlyn leads the recitation of the security guard’s creed.