160 labor execs to be deployed to assist OFWs

MANILA, Philippines - Close to 200 labor officers will be deployed in various countries employing overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)’s Human Resources Department (HRD) said about 260 job applicants have applied for the 160 vacant overseas positions.

About half of the applicants have taken the necessary examinations, while the remaining applicants will soon undergo the screening process, the HRD added.

The HRD has stopped accepting applicants, but it is ready to open the door for new ones if few will pass the screening.

Nicon Fameronag, DOLE’s Labor Communication Office director, said the HRD had to stop accepting applications due to a surge in the number of applicants.

Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz said the Philippine Overseas Labor Offices will also provide training to interested Filipino workers.

The Department of Budget and Management has approved a DOLE proposal for 162 new item positions, specifically for overseas posting, she added.

The 162 overseas positions consist of 35 supervising labor and employment officers, 19 senior labor employment officers, 48 labor and employment officers III, 23 labor and employment officers I and 37 administrative assistants III.

Those applying for the positions were informed that once they meet the basic requirements, they also have to pass the examinations that HRD will administer.