Davao — This past Philippine Independence Day, the Department of Labor and Employment-Davao Region (DOLE-Davao) transformed the SM City Davao Annex into a gateway of hope for thousands of job seekers. In celebration of the country’s 128th Independence Day, the agency hosted the "2026 Trabaho Agad Job Fair," a massive initiative that opened 2,300 job vacancies from over 30 local and two overseas employers. The event was not just a venue for recruitment; it was a strategic effort to sustain the region's strong employment rate and provide a direct lifeline to those actively seeking stability and growth in their careers.
Accessibility at the Heart of Employment
A defining feature of this year’s job fair was its deliberate inclusivity, moving beyond the traditional focus on college graduates to embrace a much wider pool of talent. DOLE-Davao Regional Director Atty. Randolf Pensoy emphasized that the event was designed to be accessible to high school and senior high school graduates, college undergraduates, and vulnerable sectors, including persons with disabilities (PWDs), repatriated OFWs, and beneficiaries of the 4Ps program. By offering roles across diverse industries such as customer service, retail, logistics, and food service, the fair successfully lowered the barriers to entry. Employers echoed this sentiment, noting that they prioritized actual skills and qualifications over educational pedigree, which streamlined the recruitment process and allowed for immediate, on-the-spot interviews that traditional walk-in applications often lack.
Stories of Success and Economic Resilience
The impact of the event was best felt through the success stories of applicants like 20-year-old Denise Giluani, who was hired on the spot by three different companies. For Giluani, securing a position meant more than just starting a career; it represented a vital opportunity to alleviate her family's financial burden. Her experience highlights the efficiency of the "Trabaho Agad" format, which saved applicants from the time-consuming and often stressful cycle of multiple interview rounds. With 59 applicants hired on the spot by midday, the event stands as a significant accomplishment for the department’s mission to provide "kalayaan sa kahirapan" (freedom from poverty) through decent work. As Davao’s employment rate remains robust, these initiatives ensure that the region continues to thrive by directly linking a hardworking workforce with employers ready to invest in their potential.
