The 2025 Kalayaan Job Fair, facilitated by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 13 (Caraga Region) in commemoration of the 127th Independence Day on Thursday, not only opened about 5,568 job vacancies but also served as a venue for the release of more than PHP3 million worth of benefits to various beneficiaries.

In a report on Friday, DOLE-13 said 38 applicants were hired on the spot during the job fair, which saw the participation of 41 local and overseas employers.

Four Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) received PHP1.6 million in financial assistance during the activity under the agency’s DOLE – Adjusted Measures Program.

“Each of the MSME recipients received a PHP400,000 check to support business recovery and employment retention,” DOLE-13 said.

Furthermore, wages amounting to PHP1.3 million under the agency’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program were paid to beneficiaries from 15 barangays in Butuan City.

Under the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program, 13 parents of identified child laborers also received PHP730,615 in livelihood assistance. This livelihood support, the agency said, aims to address the root causes of child labor by empowering their families through economic and long-term programs.

Various line agencies of the government also established booths during the job fair to provide direct services to their clients. (PNA)