IMPLEMENTATION AND IMPACT OF THE SPECIAL TRAINING FOR EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM (STEP) IN BARANGAY BOI, BOAC, MARINDUQUE: ADDRESSING VOCATIONAL TRAINING NEEDS AND ENHANCING EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

The Special Training for Employment Program (STEP), initiated by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), is designed to empower marginalized communities by providing accessible, community-based vocational training. This study assesses the implementation and outcomes of STEP in Barangay Boi, Boac, Marinduque—a rural area with limited access to education and employment. Employing a descriptive research design, the study utilized participant observations, surveys, and interviews with program participants and stakeholders. Results demonstrate that STEP significantly enhanced vocational skills and improved employment opportunities among participants, leading to increases in productivity, income, and self-reliance. Nonetheless, challenges such as limited digital access and logistical difficulties were identified. Overall, the study underscores STEP's effectiveness as a vocational training model for similarly underserved regions, while also highlighting areas for improvement.