The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) acknowledged that there was a low turnout of job seekers at the specialized job fair held for displaced workers of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO).
At a press conference, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma listed possible reasons for the low attendance of online gaming company employees at the large recruitment event.
"We have clear factors. Many still believe that the deadline of December 31 will not be met. Secondly, perhaps they are looking for a job similar to what they are currently doing, which can offer similar or better benefits," Laguesma told reporters.
The Labor Party chairman stated that the vacancies being mainly for entry-level positions might also be a factor, "Even in January and February, we continue to assist the affected IGL workers," Laguesma added.
President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. stated in his State of the Nation Address last July that all online gaming companies were banned following allegations of crimes such as human trafficking, severe illegal detention, and financial fraud involving some of these enterprises.
In September last year, the Labor Department stated that an estimated 40,000 Filipino workers would be displaced due to the online gaming ban. It was reported that 27,790 Filipino POGO workers were employed in Metro Manila, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, and Central Visayas.
From October to November, four large job fairs were held for displaced workers of online gaming companies in Parañaque City, Makati City, Camarines City, and Pasay City.
At these job fairs, 202 IGL workers were hired on the spot. 435 people received assistance for SSS unemployment insurance benefits, 708 were included in employment promotion programs, 118 received livelihood assistance, and two displaced workers were referred for skills and technical training.
DOLE announced that another job fair will be held on Friday, December 6, 2024, in Biñan, Laguna.
