Laoag: More than 900 vacancies were offered to jobseekers during the Ablan Day Job Fair at the Laoag City auditorium on Wednesday, providing employment opportunities alongside convenient access to essential government services.
According to Philippines News Agency, Shey Pia Abaya, head of the city's Public Employment Service Office (PESO), stated that 20 employers, including one overseas, participated in the event, which formed part of the 120th Gov. Roque B. Ablan Sr. Day celebration. The job fair brought together employers and jobseekers in one venue, allowing applicants to explore vacancies, submit applications, undergo initial interviews, and learn about employment opportunities available in Ilocos Norte and abroad.
Adding value to the event, participating government agencies also provided one-stop services to jobseekers and other residents. The participating agencies included the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Social Security System (SSS), Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth), and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
Abaya highlighted that the job fair and various government services were open to all and not just for Laoag residents. The integrated approach allows participants to access government services while pursuing employment opportunities, saving them time and transportation costs. It also helps applicants secure documents and assistance that may be needed during the hiring process.
The activity highlighted the commitment of the city government of Laoag and the participating agencies to employment facilitation and accessible public service, particularly for young people, returning workers, and residents seeking new career opportunities. Fatima Seredan, one of the first applicants hired on the spot as a service crew for a fast-food company, expressed her satisfaction, stating that job hunting and processing employment documents became faster and more convenient with the assistance of various government agencies present.
As of 4 p.m. on Wednesday, organizers reported that 40 out of the 303 applicants had been hired on the spot.
