By Caren Grace C. Carbonell and Jhemyca C. Asuncion
LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte, Philippines (PIA) — At least 875 job vacancies will be offered to job seekers in Ilocos Norte during the 2026 Labor Day Jobs Fair on May 1 at SM City Laoag.
The event is spearheaded by the City Government of Laoag through its Public Employment Services Office (PESO) in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
A total of 26 local and overseas employers will participate, representing industries such as retail, business process outsourcing, food services, healthcare, and construction.
PESO Manager Shey Pia Agbaya encouraged job seekers—including fresh graduates and experienced workers—to participate in the hiring activity.
“This is your opportunity to connect directly with employers and secure employment,” Agbaya said.
Applicants are advised to bring multiple copies of their résumé, valid identification cards, and other required documents.
They are also encouraged to register in advance through https://bit.ly/2026LDJFPRE-REG, although walk-in applicants will still be accepted.
Agbaya also reminded applicants to come prepared for interviews, emphasizing that proper attire, confidence, and honesty may improve hiring chances.
The jobs fair will also feature a one-stop government services center where job seekers can process documents and clearances, access skills training, and receive guidance on employment rights and benefits.
Participating government agencies include the Department of Migrant Workers, the Department of Labor and Employment, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development, which provide labor protection, employment facilitation, and social assistance services.
Support for overseas and local workers will also be provided by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Social Security System, and Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth).
For licensing, certification, and regulatory concerns, the Professional Regulation Commission, Civil Service Commission, and National Bureau of Investigation will be present.
Skills development, digital services, and productivity programs will be offered by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, the Department of Information and Communications Technology, and the Employees’ Compensation Commission.
Labor standards, dispute resolution, and wage-related concerns will be handled by the National Labor Relations Commission, Regional Conciliation and Mediation Branch, and the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board.
The initiative supports the city government’s continuing efforts to expand local employment opportunities, aligned with the national government’s thrust to bring jobs closer to communities. (AMB/CGCC/JCA, PIA Ilocos Norte)
