Dozens of jobseekers were hired on the spot during the 2026 Valentine’s Day Job Fair at SM City Bacolod North Block on Saturday, February 14.
Organized by the Bacolod City Public Employment Service Office (PESO) under Manager Jovelyn Canoy, the one-day fair drew 3,653 applicants—1,672 males and 1,981 females.
Of these, 2,895 met or closely matched hiring standards (1,345 males and 1,550 females), with 46 applicants hired on the spot.
Qualified applicants were endorsed for further screening, interviews, or processing based on each company’s requirements.
More than 70 local and international companies participated, offering roles across hospitality, retail, skilled services, business process outsourcing, and overseas employment sectors.
The February 14 event marks the 27th job fair organized by PESO since the start of Mayor Greg Gasataya’s administration.
Key partner agencies joined the event, including Carmella Abellar, Chief of the Department of Labor and Employment Negros Occidental Field Office, and Richard Aprosta, Supervising Labor Employment Officer of the Department of Migrant Workers.
In his message, Aprosta reminded applicants to prioritize safety and legitimacy when seeking overseas work.
“As you choose your agencies today, remember to choose wisely. Select only verified and licensed agencies, and always seek guidance from official Department of Migrant Workers platforms. Your dream job should never come at the cost of your dignity and safety,” he said.
He also disclosed that the department has assisted in repatriating 190 distressed migrant workers from Cambodia and urged vigilance against illegal recruitment.
Abellar encouraged applicants to stay hopeful while investing in their skills.*
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