Pasay city: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday emphasized the vital role of small businesses and the Filipino workforce in driving national growth as he led the rollout of large-scale job fairs and upskilling programs nationwide. During the Job Fair + Skills E-Hub at the SM Mall of Asia, Marcos highlighted that small enterprises and skilled workers embracing digital transformation will further accelerate the country's development.
According to Philippines News Agency, the ongoing job fairs and skills-training hubs are bringing more opportunities to Filipinos. Marcos cited the government's collaboration with the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC), which has so far produced over 5,000 job fairs, reached 1.3 million job seekers, and hired over 200,000 on the spot since 2023.
Marcos remarked that the partnership has consistently been a strong driver of national development. He acknowledged the responsibility to provide assistance meeting the needs of Filipinos seeking employment that aligns with their skills, interests, and aspirations.
He encouraged job seekers to acquire new competencies and adapt to rapidly changing industries, emphasizing the importance of being open to new methods and technologies. Marcos expressed confidence in the ability of Filipinos to keep pace with global workforce changes when given appropriate support and opportunities.
Marcos also urged entrepreneurs to exhibit excellence, creativity, and innovation. He assured that the administration will continue to foster a fair, transparent, and enabling business environment that encourages investment and rewards persistence with progress.
The Job Fair + Skills E-Hub, an initiative by the Office of the President, was organized in partnership with the PSAC, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the Department of Information and Communications Technology, and SM Supermalls. The event coincided with DOLE's 92nd founding anniversary and was conducted simultaneously in nine areas nationwide.
A total of 114 employers participated, offering 16,053 local and overseas vacancies. Among these, 113 local employers opened 15,768 vacancies, while one agency provided 295 overseas placement opportunities. Key industries and top positions included manufacturing, retail, and business process outsourcing.
Additionally, a one-stop shop for government services was set up to facilitate the processing of pre-employment documents. During the event, Marcos distributed assistance, including PHP1.2 million in payouts for TUPAD program beneficiaries and PHP2.68 million in subsidies for five micro, small, and medium enterprises under the Adjustment Measures Program.
Marcos expressed hope that government assistance would contribute to business growth, improving enterprise viability, competitiveness, and productivity.
