Albay: Thousands of job seekers trooped to the Labor Day job fair in Albay on Friday, with many praising the event, organized by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), for offering employment opportunities and one-stop government services. DOLE-Bicol Director Imelda Gatinao said the event supports efforts to improve access to jobs and strengthen job matching in the region.
According to Philippines News Agency, the job fair served as the centerpiece of the Labor Day celebration, bringing together employers from various sectors and facilitating on-the-spot hiring for qualified applicants. Gatinao thanked local employers for opening opportunities for Bicolano workers. Applicants cited the accessible venue and wide range of job options.
Bobby Marquez, 18, said he joined the fair to find work to support his needs and save for college. 'It's a good opportunity to know what jobs are available and what fits me,' he said. Joseph Labadan, 29, said the fair allowed applicants to apply their skills, while first-time job seeker Sheen Odena, 25, said the event taught her that determination matters even without experience. Charles Lorilla, 25, a graduate from Sorsogon, was hired on the spot and said the job would help support his family.
The event also benefitted 140 Government Internship Program (GIP) beneficiaries who received a total of PHP700,700 in stipends. Beneficiary Adam A±onuevo, 24, expressed gratitude for the program and hoped it could help more people in marginalized sectors. Other activities included a livelihood fair, Kadiwa ng Pangulo para sa Manggagawa, and a Diskwento (Discount) Caravan with 42 exhibitors.
A one-stop shop provided services from agencies such as the National Bureau of Investigation, Civil Service Commission, Philippine Statistics Authority, Social Security System, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG Fund, and Department of Social Welfare and Development. Startup entrepreneurs and small vendors also joined the trade fair, showcasing local products. Angeli Kaith Toledo, 26, of HopWell Hygienics Commercial Corporation, said the event helped boost their visibility.
Kadiwa exhibitor Gina Martillana, 48, a beneficiary of DOLE's Sustainable Livelihood Program, expressed gratitude for the government's support, which helped sustain her income. 'My message to the government, to DOLE: I am grateful because I am a beneficiary of SLP, which enabled me to join the exhibits where I was invited,' she said.
