Davao city: The Department of Labor and Employment in the Davao Region (DOLE-11) offered 5,724 job openings during the 124th Labor Day job fair on Friday at six venues across the region, opening a dedicated green lane for priority applicants, including senior citizens, senior high school graduates, and persons with disabilities.

According to Philippines News Agency, as of 3 p.m., 1,073 job seekers had registered. Of these, 55 were hired on the spot (HOTS), while 112 were identified as near-hires pending submission of requirements and final interviews. Jerome Villa, 33, who was hired as an electrician in Laguna, expressed his readiness as he prepares to support his family.

DOLE-11 Director Randolf Pensoy stated that the job fair was held simultaneously in several locations including Davao City, Digos City (Davao del Sur), Tagum City (Davao del Norte), Malita (Davao Occidental), Nabunturan (Davao de Oro), and Mati City (Davao Oriental). Pensoy noted that there were 97 participating employers across these venues, and registered attendees began arriving at 10 a.m.

This year's job fair also prioritized graduates of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). DOLE also actively promotes employment opportunities for senior citizens aged 60 and above who are physically and mentally capable of working. The initiative focuses on providing light, safe, and part-time jobs, often in partnership with private businesses. Pensoy mentioned that senior citizens have opportunities to work in fast food chains where they can engage with and entertain customers.