DOLE Hosts Job Fair for Displaced IGL Workers

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) conducted a two-day job fair in Pasay City on November 19-20 to assist workers displaced by the recent ban on Internet Gaming Licensees (IGLs), formerly known as Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).

The event, under Project DAPAT (DOLE Action Plan and Transition Project), featured 12,378 job vacancies from 790 local and overseas employers. Industries offering opportunities included business process outsourcing, manufacturing, health and wellness, retail, hospitality, transport, logistics, and construction.

To support job seekers, a one-stop shop was set up to facilitate employment requirements. Among those hired on the spot was Marian Dela Peña, a former data analyst who secured a position as a junior customer care specialist at a medical diagnostic center.

DOLE Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma highlighted the collaborative efforts of government agencies and private sector partners in helping displaced workers secure stable employment. The job fair follows earlier events in Parañaque, Makati, and Kawit, Cavite, which resulted in 164 workers being hired on the spot.

The initiative aligns with Executive Order 74 issued by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on November 5. The order directs the Technical Working Group on Employment Recovery and Reintegration, chaired by PAGCOR and vice-chaired by DOLE, to provide safety nets and assistance to affected workers.

DOLE also offers additional support through employment facilitation programs, livelihood assistance, and training programs via TESDA. Terminated workers will receive help with wage claims, benefits, and unemployment certificate processing for Social Security System claims.

Key attendees at the event included Employment Cluster OIC-Undersecretary Atty. Paul Añover, Bureau of Local Employment Director Patrick Patriwirawan Jr., Pasay City PESO Manager Atty. Marla Bello-Alom, and representatives from SM Supermalls and the office of Pasay City Representative Antonino Calixto. (ASC)