DOLE Schedules Job Fair for Calabarzon POGO Workers in December.

Manila: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has announced plans to conduct a special job fair for Filipino workers in Calabarzon who will be affected by the impending ban on Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs). This event is scheduled to take place on December 6, as revealed by Bureau of Local Employment (BLE) director Patrick Patriwirawan during a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon briefing on Thursday. According to Philippines News Agency, the upcoming job fair is part of DOLE's employment facilitation services aimed at providing new opportunities for displaced POGO workers. Previously, a job fair was held at the SM Mall of Asia-Music Hall in Pasay City on November 19 and 20, where 38 out of 298 job seekers from the POGO industry were hired on the spot. Additionally, DOLE is assisting these workers with processing their unemployment insurance benefits, with 435 applicants currently in line. They are also being referred to local Public Employment Service Offices (PESO) for job matching and career de velopment support. In related developments, Manila 6th District Representative and House Quad Committee co-chairman Bienvenido Abante has announced plans to conclude hearings on POGOs by next month. The focus will then shift to other pressing issues, such as illegal drugs and extra-judicial killings (EJKs). Abante, speaking at the 'Balitaan sa Harbor View' forum, stressed the importance of accountability and addressing ongoing investigations in Congress. Abante also expressed concerns over Vice President Sara Duterte's actions and cautioned against former President Rodrigo Duterte's recent call for military intervention, describing it as "very dangerous and reckless." He emphasized the need for the military to remain non-partisan and loyal to the Constitution, while criticizing Duterte for potential disunity. Despite calls from the Catholic Church to halt political bickering, Abante defended the congressional investigations, asserting that they are necessary to ensure accountability and address significant national issues. The investigations aim to uncover answers, assign responsibility, and prevent future misconduct.