Tacloban: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) regional office has partnered with 35 higher education institutions (HEIs) and training centers to establish job placement offices (JPOs) on campuses across Region 8. This initiative aims to institutionalize employment facilitation services in colleges and vocational schools within the region's six provinces.

According to Philippines News Agency, DOLE regional information officer Norma Rae Costimiano emphasized the importance of these JPOs in aligning with the government's mission of advancing full, decent, and productive employment. The initiative reflects DOLE's commitment to strengthening collaboration with academic institutions to create employment support systems for the youth.

The 35 schools and training centers with newly established placement offices include 10 in Leyte province, seven in Southern Leyte, five in Eastern Samar, six in Biliran, four in Northern Samar, and three in Samar. The establishment of JPOs is expected to provide graduates and students with enhanced access to career development support services, employment opportunities, and labor market information.

Recently, DOLE formalized partnerships with the Abuyog Community College in Leyte, Southern Leyte State University in Southern Leyte, and Visayas State University in Baybay City, Leyte. This collaboration was solidified through a memorandum of understanding signed on September 11 by DOLE Regional Director Dax Villaruel and other key regional officials, along with presidents and representatives of the participating state universities and colleges.

Costimiano noted that the JPOs will offer structured employment facilitation services such as career coaching, job fairs, skills matching, and labor market information dissemination. The initiative is expected to benefit thousands of students and graduates directly, enhancing youth employability and strengthening connections between academia and industry sectors.