Ever wondered how a single job fair can change the lives of hundreds? In Caraga, the recent Kalayaan Jobs Fair proved to be a beacon of hope for many. The event, held to celebrate the 126th Independence Day, saw the instant hiring of at least 169 jobseekers out of 530 attendees.
A Day of Opportunities
The Department of Labor and Employment in the Caraga Region (DOLE-13) reported that 57 employers participated in the event, offering more than 4,000 local and overseas job opportunities. The jobs fair brought together unemployed individuals from Butuan City and nearby towns, achieving a notable placement rate of 31.89 percent.
One of the beneficiaries, Cherrylyn Dacera from Barangay Los Angeles, expressed her gratitude:
“The DOLE is a big help for jobseekers like me. I am thankful for this opportunity to be one of those hired instantly during the activity,” she said.
TUPAD Program: A Lifeline for Many
On the same day, DOLE also announced the release of PHP52 million in payments to 10,831 individuals who participated in the Tulong Panghanapbuhay para sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) program. This initiative, aimed at providing temporary employment to disadvantaged workers, saw payouts across various parts of the Caraga region.
Furthermore, 493 groups received PHP14 million worth of starter kits under the Integrated Livelihood Program, helping many kickstart their livelihood activities.
Success in Davao
The success of the jobs fair extended beyond Caraga. In Davao, another Kalayaan Job Fair resulted in the immediate hiring of 84 jobseekers. According to DOLE-11, 84 individuals secured local employment, and one qualified for an overseas job. Among the 1,348 jobseekers who attended, 211 were classified as near-hires, with 145 for local jobs and 66 for overseas positions.
DOLE-11 assistant regional director, Jason Balais, extended his gratitude: “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our partners and employers for making the job fair a resounding success,” he said in a Facebook post.
The Impact of Job Fairs
Job fairs like the Kalayaan Jobs Fair are crucial in addressing unemployment and underemployment in the Philippines. They provide a platform for jobseekers to connect directly with potential employers, offering a chance to secure employment on the spot. These events also highlight the collaborative efforts of government agencies, local businesses, and international employers in creating job opportunities and boosting the local economy.
Future Prospects
The positive outcomes from the recent job fairs in Caraga and Davao are a testament to the effectiveness of such initiatives. They not only provide immediate employment opportunities but also support various livelihood programs that empower individuals to sustain themselves and their families.
Statistics from the Kalayaan Jobs Fair
| Location | Jobseekers Attended | Jobs Offered | Hired on the Spot | Near-Hires |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caraga | 530 | 4,000+ | 169 | – |
| Davao | 1,348 | – | 84 | 211 |
The Final Word
The Kalayaan Jobs Fair and TUPAD program payouts have significantly impacted many lives in Caraga and Davao.
These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to addressing unemployment and supporting disadvantaged workers through comprehensive programs.
As more such events are planned, they continue to offer hope and opportunities to jobseekers across the Philippines.
Sources: THX News & Philippine News Agency.
