85 hired on-the-spot at DOLE job fair

By Sally A. Altea

LEGAZPI CITY --- Romylyn Narra, a 27-year-old single mother from Jovellar, Albay, views her new job as a chance to rebuild her life after losing her husband in a tragic motor accident last year.

Narra was among the 85 applicants hired on-the-spot at the recent Nationwide Job Fair hosted by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Office V in Albay.

She was hired as a production operator for a manpower company based in Batangas. For her, this job is more than mere work — it’s a fresh start.

“This job fair is a new beginning for me. After losing my husband, I lost hope. But this opportunity is a blessing,” she said.

“It’s a big help for me, especially since I lost my partner in life. My three-year-old daughter is my inspiration. This is for her good future,” she added

Before landing the job, Narra supported her daughter by helping out with her parents’ piggery and relying on the little savings her late husband left behind.

Another applicant, a former private school teacher from Daraga, Albay, was hired as an office worker at the same company. She narrated how the job fair had opened doors for her and others seeking new career paths.

“This event is a huge help for people like me who are looking for new opportunities,” Jamayca May Roco said.

Imelda F. Gatinao, DOLE regional director for Bicol, stressed the significance of job fairs especially for the region.

“There are many schools and technical vocational institutions here in Bicol. That means there are many graduates and talented and skilled workers,” she said.

“Job fairs bring opportunities for jobseekers to access different companies and industries in one location,” Gatinao added.

Twenty-five employers from various industries and sectors nationwide offered more than 3,500 diverse job opportunities to over 1,000 job seekers.

In addition to job opportunities, 271 applicants accessed services from various government agencies at the one-stop shop, including necessary documents and assistance for employment. (With a report from Raiza Lucido/PIA5/Albay)