Poe wants to abolish pre-employment fees for fresh grads

MANILA, Philippines - Senator Grace Poe filed on Monday a bill seeking to waive government fees and charges for fresh graduates seeking jobs.

Poe said waiving fees for documentary requirements is a form of investment in the labor force.

"The waiver of these fees must be taken not as a loss of revenue for the government, but as an investment in labor force, which is in its best interest to protect and promote," she said, adding that high costs of college education deplete family resources.

Under Senate Bill 1216 or the Fresh Graduates Pre-employment Assistance Act of 2013, fees for police or National Bureau of Investigation clearance, identification card or number from the Social Security System, certification from a local government, tax identification number and other documents become free for fresh college graduates.

Under the proposal, a fresh graduate should secure school documents as proof of graduation upon applying for a job.

"It is a simple measure that intends not only to provide relief but also to show the government's commitment to promote the interest of the youth," Poe said.