By Vhioly Rosatazo & Roel Arizala
STA. MARIA, Bulacan — Hundreds of job seekers gathered early despite the morning heat to attend a job fair organized through the initiative of Bulacan Sixth District Rep. Salvador Aquino Pleyto.
Carrying resumes, diplomas, and other credentials, young applicants and parents who had long been searching for work lined up at the venue in hopes of securing employment.
According to the office of Rep. Pleyto, the job fair was organized to bring employment opportunities closer to residents so they would no longer need to travel to Metro Manila to find work. “Work is the answer to poverty,” said KA ADOR, referring to the congressman who, they said, consistently looks after the welfare of his constituents.
The program was conducted in partnership with the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) of Sta. Maria, whose representatives emphasized the importance of providing concrete assistance to job seekers.
“It is more important that each applicant brings home news,” a PESO representative said, stressing that employment programs should deliver tangible results rather than mere promises.
More than two dozen companies from various sectors—including manufacturing, retail, and other industries—participated in the job fair, offering a wide range of employment opportunities. Several government agencies were also present to provide on-site services such as the processing of NBI clearance, Social Security System (SSS) documents, and other requirements needed for job applications.
For Maricel, a 27-year-old single mother, the event offered a valuable opportunity. “I don’t have to spend money on airfare to Manila. Just here, I have hope,” she said while holding her biodata as she waited for her next interview.
Organizers said initiatives like the job fair highlight the importance of visible and concrete action from public officials. They noted that Rep. Pleyto continues to push programs aimed at improving the lives of residents in the Sixth District.
For many applicants, however, the most meaningful outcome of the event was the chance to present their skills to potential employers. Ultimately, the success of such programs, they said, is measured not by publicity but by how many families gain new opportunities for a better future.
Aside from employment opportunities, attendees also benefited from additional services including free haircuts, manicures, and massages.
A representative of Bulacan Vice Governor Alex Castro also attended the event and delivered a message of support to the participants.
Organizers described the initiative as part of “Serbisyong Kumpleto,” a program aimed at providing comprehensive services to residents of the district.
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