Manila: Over 1,488 graduating Senior High School (SHS) and Alternative Learning System (ALS) learners were hired immediately as part of the nationwide rollout of the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF). This initiative, led by the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), aimed to bridge the gap between graduation and employment for young learners.
According to Philippines News Agency, the BPSF mobilized approximately 40 schools across various regions, transforming them into one-stop shops for governmental pre-employment services and job vacancies. This move was in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive. During the synchronized implementation last Wednesday, 1,188 SHS Technical-Vocational-Livelihood (TVL) graduates and ALS learners were hired on the spot, in addition to 300 learners from earlier pilot runs in Metro Manila, Sorsogon, Cebu, and Davao del Norte. The event recorded a 40 percent direct hiring rate for qualified jobseekers.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara noted the financial relief provided to families by consolidating government services and employment opportunities. He emphasized the importance of bringing these services closer to learners, especially during challenging times, to ensure they can enter the workforce without delay. The initiative addresses the high costs associated with pre-employment requirements, enabling graduates to focus on building their careers.
DOLE Undersecretary Carmela Torres highlighted the expanded access to employment opportunities for first-time jobseekers. The partnership with DepEd aims to demonstrate the government's commitment to assisting youth as they embark on their career journeys. The BPSF not only offers immediate jobs but also provides employment pathways.
In addition to job placements, more than 5,975 SHS-TVL graduates and ALS learners obtained free pre-employment documents, including birth certificates and clearances from the National Bureau of Investigation and police, to support their transition from school to work. This initiative is in compliance with the First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act or Republic Act 11261, co-authored by Angara during his time as a senator.
