KORONADAL CITY – The T’nalak Job Fair drew 1,236 hopeful jobseekers to the South Cotabato Gymnasium and Cultural Center on July 27, 2026, offering more than 3,000 overseas positions. The event, held as part of the province’s 60th Foundation Anniversary and the 27th T’nalak Festival, connected local talent with global opportunities.
A Gateway to Safe Overseas Employment
Six DMW‑accredited recruitment agencies set up booths representing employers in Germany, Japan, Croatia, and other destinations. Each vacancy had been pre‑screened to ensure compliance with ethical recruitment standards. For many attendees, the fair was a rare chance to explore legal pathways abroad without falling prey to illegal recruiters.
Assistant Regional Director Jeanette E. Escaño described the event as more than a hiring event. She called it a bridge connecting aspiring OFWs to safe, legal, and meaningful work. Her words underscored the government’s commitment to protecting Filipino workers at every step of their migration journey.
On‑the‑Spot Hires and Local Opportunities
Beyond overseas placements, the fair delivered immediate results on home soil. Eleven applicants were hired on the spot by major local employers, including KCC Mall, Gaisano Mall, Mall of Ace, Forest Lake, and Phil‑Invest. These instant hires proved that the local economy is also absorbing talent.
Among those hired was Lyca S. Ali of Lake Sebu, whose mother works as a domestic worker in Saudi Arabia. Ali expressed deep gratitude, saying the job fair had changed her family’s situation. Her story mirrored the event’s core mission: supporting OFW families with tangible economic opportunities.
A One‑Stop Government Service Hub
The National Reintegration Network transformed the gymnasium into a comprehensive service center. Partner agencies such as OWWA, Pag‑IBIG, PhilHealth, TESDA, DTI, and the National Housing Authority set up desks to assist attendees. Jobseekers could process documents, inquire about reintegration programs, and access social services without traveling to multiple offices.
The Department of Agriculture and the Department of Science and Technology also joined, offering livelihood and skills development programs. This multi‑agency approach ensured that participants left with more than just a job application. They received holistic support designed to strengthen their families’ long‑term well‑being.
Festival Spirit Fuels Economic Activity
Hosting the job fair during the T’nalak Festival added a layer of cultural pride to the event. The festival, known for celebrating the province’s vibrant T’boli heritage, drew larger crowds and heightened community engagement. Organizers leveraged the festive atmosphere to reach jobseekers who might otherwise miss a standalone recruitment event.
The partnership between the DMW Region XII and the Provincial Government of South Cotabato demonstrated how local celebrations can serve as platforms for economic empowerment. The successful turnout reinforced the province’s reputation as a proactive partner in workforce development.
Building Brighter Futures for OFW Families
The T’nalak Job Fair exemplified how government, private sector, and local communities can collaborate to create meaningful employment pathways. With over 3,000 overseas vacancies and immediate local hires, the event delivered on its promise to connect Filipinos with opportunities that build better futures.
