The Public Employment Service Office (PESO) in the Philippines is a department agency in connecting job seekers with work opportunities. Managed by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), this office promotes labor, job security, and facilitates the matching of Filipino job seekers with employers. This contributes to the nation’s economic development and the well-being of its citizens.
The target audience for PESO includes a wide demographic of Filipinos ranging from fresh graduates to skilled workers and professionals seeking new employment opportunities. The primary benefits provided stem from job placement services, career coaching, and skills development programs tailored to empower the workforce. Applicants can expect from this office not only employment assistance but also guidance on career advancement and access to various government resources aimed at improving employability. Through PESO, individuals are better equipped to navigate the job market, leading to improved job matching and consequently contributing to the nation’s economic growth.
Legal Foundation of PESO
Established under Republic Act No. 8759, also known as the PESO Act of 1999, and further reinforced by Republic Act No. 10691, this agency represents the government’s commitment to ensuring accessible labor services across the country. These laws mandate the creation of the agency in all Local Government Units (LGUs) in coordination with DOLE, making it a cornerstone for local job initiatives.
Target Beneficiaries
The agency’s services are designed to cater to a wide array of individuals seeking work, including but not limited to:
- fresh graduates,
- out-of-school youth,
- overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) returning home,
- persons with disabilities (PWDs), and
- migratory workers.
The inclusivity of its services ensures that every Filipino of legal working age, regardless of their background or circumstance, has access to job opportunities and support.
PESO’s Array of Programs and Services
The agency offers a comprehensive suite of programs and services aimed at enhancing the labor landscape in the Philippines:
- Job Fairs: Organized regularly to facilitate direct interaction between job seekers and employers, enabling on-the-spot job matching and interviews.
- Livelihood and Self-employment Bazaars: Aimed at empowering individuals with information on various livelihood options, particularly beneficial in rural areas.
- Special Credit Assistance for Placed Overseas Workers: Provides financial support to qualified individuals seeking work abroad.
- Special Program for Employment of Students and Out-of-School Youth (SPESO): Offers job opportunities during summer and Christmas breaks, helping students and out-of-school youth support their education.
- Work Appreciation Program (WAP): Focuses on instilling work values and ethics among the youth through real-world work exposure.
- Workers Hiring for Infrastructure Projects (WHIP): Ensures local hiring for government-funded infrastructure projects, as mandated by Republic Act No. 6685.
- Other DOLE-developed Programs: Tailored to address the unique needs of special groups such as PWDs and displaced workers.
How to Engage their Services
Job seekers:
- Prepare your Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): Start by creating a well-structured and comprehensive resume or CV that highlights your skills, qualifications, and work experience. Include any relevant diplomas or certificates that showcase your expertise.
- Gather Necessary Documents: Make sure to gather all the necessary documents, such as educational diplomas, training certificates, and identification cards. These documents will be required during the registration process.
- Visit the Local PESO Office: Locate the nearest agency and visit their office in person. These offices are usually found in local government units or job centers.
- Register with PESO: Upon arrival at their office, register as a job seeker. Provide all the required information, including your personal details, educational background, work experience, and contact information.
- Submit your Resume/CV and Documents: Submit your resume or CV, along with the necessary documents, to the PESO staff. They will review your application and keep it on file for potential job matching.
- Attend Interviews: Depending on the availability of job opportunities, the office may schedule interviews for registered job seekers. Alternatively, some employers may directly interview candidates. Be prepared for interviews by researching the company and practicing common interview questions.
- Follow Up: After the interview, follow up with the PESO office or the employer to inquire about the status of your application. This demonstrates your enthusiasm and interest in the position.
Employers:
- Prepare a Job Vacancy Listing: Employers should create a comprehensive job vacancy listing that includes essential details such as job title, job description, required qualifications, and any specific instructions for applicants.
- Write a Request Letter: Employers should draft a formal request letter addressed to the nearest Public Employment Service Office. The letter should introduce the company, provide contact information, and express the intention to collaborate for job matching services.
- Contact the Nearest PESO Office: Reach out to the nearest office either by phone or in person. Inquire about their job matching services and express your interest in collaborating. Provide them with the job vacancy listing and request letter for their reference.
- Provide Additional Information: If requested by their staff, be prepared to provide additional information such as the number of vacancies, desired start date, salary range, and any other relevant details that can assist in the job matching process.
- Follow Up: After submitting the job vacancy listing and request letter, follow up to ensure that they have received the documents and to inquire about the progress of the job matching process. Maintain open communication with the agency throughout the collaboration.
Researchers and labor market analysts:
- Understand the Purpose: Researchers and labor market analysts can access valuable job data through the Public Employment Service Office. This data helps in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the labor landscape and making informed decisions.
- Prepare a Request Letter: To access work data through the agency, researchers and analysts need to submit a formal request letter. The letter should clearly state the purpose of the data request and provide relevant details about the specific information needed.
- Include Necessary Information: In the request letter, include essential information such as the name of the organization or institution conducting the research, the name and contact details of the person making the request, and any specific requirements or preferences regarding the data format or timeframe.
- Submit the Request: Once the request letter is prepared, submit it to the designated office. Ensure that the letter is addressed to the appropriate authority and follow any specific submission guidelines provided by them.
- Await Response and Collaboration: After submitting the request, patiently await a response from the office. They will review the request and determine the feasibility of providing the requested labor data. In some cases, they may require additional information or clarification before proceeding.
- Maintain Professional Communication: Throughout the process, maintain professional and respectful communication with representatives. Respond promptly to any inquiries or requests for additional information to facilitate a smooth collaboration.
- Utilize the Employment Data: Once the requested work data is provided, researchers and labor market analysts can analyze and interpret the data to gain insights into the job landscape. This information can be used to inform policy decisions, identify trends, and contribute to a more informed understanding of the labor market.
Success Stories / Recent Updates:
Bureau of Local Employment Director and Panelists Discuss Career Development Support Program at National Employment Congress
Bureau of Local Employment Director Patrick P. Patriwirawan Jr. led a panel discussion on the Career Development Support Program (CDSP) during the 23rd National Public Employment Service Office Congress. The CDSP is a strategic initiative by the labor department to address common challenges faced by job seekers in their employment journey. The program aims to provide comprehensive support to individuals in finding the right jobs through career counseling, identifying suitable upskilling or reskilling opportunities through vocational counseling, and advancing their chosen career paths through work counseling. Joining Director Patriwirawan in expressing support for the CDSP and sharing their career guidance strategies were panelists Ma. Teresa S. Tunguia, President of the Federation of Career Guidance Advocates Network of the Philippines Inc.; Bonifacio Mercado, Jr., Job Placement Office (JPO) Manager of CITE Technical Institute; Sylvia Sumundong, JPO Manager of St. Vincent College; and Vincent Alcantara, JPO Manager of the University of Batangas. The panel discussion was held in Palo, Leyte on October 25-27, 2023, as part of the congress’s five plenary sessions.
DOLE Expands Career and Employment Counseling Services Nationwide
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is set to enhance its network of guidance counselors and career advocates to strengthen career, vocational, and labor counseling services for job seekers. The Bureau of Local Employment (BLE) Director, Patrick P. Patriwirawan Jr., announced the department’s goal of addressing the challenges faced by job seekers across the country through the Career Development Support Program (CDSP). The CDSP aims to assist individuals in finding suitable work through career counseling, identifying necessary upskilling or reskilling interventions through vocational counseling, and promoting chosen career paths through career counseling. To swiftly implement this initiative, Director Patriwirawan conducted an orientation on CDSP for Public Employment Service Office managers in local governments, career guidance advocates, as well as DOLE officials and staff from various regions during the 23rd National PESO Congress held on October 26 in Leyte.
DOLE emphasizes partnership with LGUs and PESOs in achieving labor and employment agenda
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) recognizes that the attainment of the labor and labor agenda is not solely its responsibility. Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma highlighted the crucial role of Local Government Units (LGUs) and their Public Employment Service Offices as social partners during the 23rd National PESO Congress held in Palo, Leyte. Secretary Laguesma emphasized the need for collaborative action and innovative solutions to address the challenges in the workforce. PESOs, community-based offices managed by LGUs, universities, and colleges, are tasked with ensuring timely and efficient delivery of labor services. They work closely with DOLE’s regional offices for coordination and technical supervision, as well as with the DOLE Central Office in establishing a national job service network.
Video: DOLE’s Special Program for Employment of Students
The Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES), also known as one of the youth labor initiatives of the Department of Labor and Employment, aims to provide temporary jobs to deserving students and out-of-school youth who come from poor backgrounds or are dependent on displaced or soon-to-be displaced workers. This program offers an opportunity for these individuals to continue their education while gaining valuable work experience.
SPES recipients receive cash payments through a disbursement remittance facility. The employer shoulders 60% of the applicable minimum wage or hiring rate, while the remaining 40% is paid by the DOLE. Additionally, SPES recipients, whether working in private or public establishments, are entitled to insurance coverage for a period of one year.
Conclusion
PESO is a crucial platform for Filipino job seekers, providing opportunities for work and self-sufficiency. It reflects the government’s commitment to empowering workers, promoting economic development, and improving the Filipino workforce. Through job fairs and livelihood programs, the agency offers vital support services that shape the labor landscape and serve as an essential resource for Filipinos across the country.