Patterned after the United States Peace Corps, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has signed an executive order creating a new national service corps.
The new national service will take the lead in promoting the spirit of community and volunteerism in the country. It will also enlist the services of the unemployed and underemployed skilled youth or college graduates, aged 18-24, who will be trained to carry out education and community service programs.
The President announced the formation of the new national service in her speech during the launching of the “Sama-sama Para sa Kalikasan,” at the Bohol Wisdom School in Tagbilaran City, Bohol province last Wednesday (April 1).
The Chief Executive said the National Service Corps shall be like a domestic “Peace Corps” composed of the unemployed or underemployed skilled youth or college graduates. They will undergo a two-year training on volunteer service focused on their contributions to education and community service programs. (PIA)