Manila – In response to the impending shutdown of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is in the final stages of organizing a job fair aimed at assisting the affected workforce.
According to Philippines News Agency, the job fair is being meticulously prepared with the profiling of the affected employees expected to conclude this week. “It’s still being firmed up and finalized. Profiling of the affected workers is expected to be completed within the week. Will provide you details once finalized,” Laguesma communicated on Monday. He revealed that approximately 20,000 workers have been profiled so far, with efforts ongoing to obtain complete lists of employees from all internet gaming licensees, previously known as POGOs, that are yet to comply.
During the profiling process, workers are required to provide basic personal information and details about their employment such as their work nature and salary level. “The profiling seeks to get info on the worker’s personal circumstances (i.e., age/status) and nature of their work/salary level. On this basis, assistance may vary from employment facilitation through direct referrals or job fairs; livelihood projects or training, retraining and upskilling,” explained Laguesma.
The move comes after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced a total ban on POGOs in his third State of the Nation Address in July, mandating their cessation by the end of the year. This decision underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the social issues tied to the gaming industry and supporting the transition of its workforce into other employment sectors.