VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur (PIA) — Jobseekers in Ilocos Sur participated in a jobs fair on Sept. 11 at the Provincial Farmers Livelihood Development Center, where over 4,000 job openings in Taiwan were offered.
Organized by the Provincial Government of Ilocos Sur, Pre-employment and Government Placement Bureau of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO), and the Migrant Office in Taiwan, the activity was aimed at ensuring that residents aspiring for overseas employment are given legitimate work opportunities in the said country.
Among 2,545 applicants, about 2,110 individuals were pre-qualified to work in Taiwan with no placement fee required.
There were 11 authorized recruitment companies that were searching for skilled laborers, factory workers, and nurses.
Governor Jerry Singson said, “This event is a testament to our firm commitment to provide not just employment but the change for our people to transform their lives, and the lives of their families.”
He stated that the provincial government believes that opportunity is the foundation of progress, and this event is a powerful example of how their efforts, in partnership with MECO, DMW, and all recruitment agencies, are moving closer to that vision.
DMW Undersecretary Bernard Olalia said, “Our department, our staff are here to ensure that the Filipino people do not become victims of illegal recruitment.”
“Applicants should be very careful not to fall for scams, they should contact the DMW website (https://dmw.gov.ph/licensed-recruitment-agencies) to check the legitimacy of those offering them employment,” MECO Chairperson Silverstre Bello III reminded.
According to Bello, most of the job opportunities presented during the fair are in the electronics and health industry.
He explained that with proper qualifications, the applicants could start their employment in Taiwan by the end of October 2024.
Jobert San Pascual, a 43-year-old applicant, said that he tried to apply for overseas employment once but, along with his peers, they were tricked.
He shared that with his experience as a machine operator for 11 years in the Philippines, he believes he will qualify for a job in Taiwan.
Pascual said, “Residents of Ilocos Sur are lucky enough that the provincial government found a way to bring employment opportunities in the province, and this is a program they should continue because it helps a lot of people.”
He also reminded people to be cautious of illegitimate employment opportunities.
Meanwhile, Shena Dela Cruz, a 34-year-old jobseeker from San Ildefonso town, said she and his husband agreed to try their luck in overseas employment so that they can save up for the future of their three children.
As a former Overseas Filipino Worker herself, Dela Cruz acknowledged the difficulties of working away from home, however, she sees it necessary to live a new life.
“This is a great help for us, the employment we are seeking was brought here in our province so we are very thankful to the provincial government and the other agencies,” she said.
Moreover, the provincial government also provided free photocopying services, and a one-stop-shop was installed with the participation of the Philippine Statistics Authority, Social Security System, Department of Labor and Employment, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. (MJTAB/VGS, PIA Ilocos Sur)
