Quezon City: Seven Czech companies are offering more than 2,500 employment opportunities for Filipino workers during an exclusive job fair at the Robinsons Galleria in Quezon City, as part of the Philippines-Czech Republic Friendship Week.

According to Philippines News Agency, during Wednesday's opening ceremony, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac emphasized the event's role in strengthening the employment partnership between the two countries by providing direct access to overseas jobs in various industries. He encouraged applicants to strive for success, assuring them of support from all parties involved.

Cacdac highlighted the collaborative effort of the job fair, bringing together officials from the Philippine government, the Czech government, private recruitment agencies, and Czech employers. This 'quadrilateral' platform aims to facilitate employment connections for qualified Filipino applicants, offering a comprehensive framework to support employment facilitation.

Czech Deputy Minister of Transportation Tomas Vrbik introduced the delegation of Czech companies, noting their commitment to travel nearly 10,000 km to Manila to engage directly with potential employees. Participating firms include Alza.cz, Arriva, Cargo Sprint, CEE Logistics, Hodlmayr Logistics, Hofmann Wizard, and Kosteleck© ºzeminy, offering roles in logistics, engineering, hospitality, transport, and manufacturing sectors.

DMW Assistant Secretary Levinson Alcantara emphasized the presence of top executives from the companies and recruitment agencies, ensuring applicants the opportunity to engage directly with decision-makers.

Meanwhile, Czech Ambassador to the Philippines Karel Hejc reflected on the historical connection between Manila and Prague, tracing back to Jos© Rizal's friendship with Czech-born scholar Ferdinand Blumentritt. He highlighted the shared values and mutual support that unite the two nations despite geographical distance and cultural differences.