Legazpi City: At least 57 applicants were hired on the spot (HOTS) during the Independence Day job fair organized by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) at a mall in this city.

According to Philippines News Agency, DOLE Bicol Regional Director Imelda Gatinao mentioned that the number of jobseekers hired on the spot is expected to increase once other applicants, considered "nearly hired" and "qualified," complete the application process. "It will go up even more because once the near hires and qualified complete the required documents, they will be hired," she said in Filipino.

Gatinao expressed gratitude to all partner government agencies and companies that participated in the job fair. Jesamin Boreal, a working student of 10 years from Taysan, Legazpi City, was one of those hired on the spot. Boreal shared her excitement about finding a stable job immediately. "With the help of the DOLE Kalayaan job fair, I was hired as a stock clerk at Tanvera Corporation. I am very grateful to DOLE for providing opportunities to those like me who are in need of work," she said. Boreal also remarked that the job fair served as an opportunity for jobseekers like her to start a new chapter in their lives.

Mea Gutierrez, a fresh graduate from Manito Community College, was hired as a production operator. She expressed her joy by stating, "This is a dream made come true together. To fellow jobseekers, don't lose hope. Just keep applying and trust the process." Gutierrez added that the right opportunity will come for jobseekers and thanked DOLE for providing such opportunities. "Thank you very much to DOLE for giving us this opportunity. I hope you will continue this program for more dreamers," she added.