The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reported that only 10.28 percent of jobseekers who attended the 124th Labor Day job fairs were hired on the spot (Hots). In a statement released on Friday, May 8, 2026, DOLE revealed that a total of 60,902 job seekers participated in job fairs held across 95 sites nationwide on May 1. Of these, 6,261 individuals were immediately hired.
Hired Positions and Future Plans
Among the positions filled on the spot were production operators, cashiers, service crew, sales associates, baggers, teachers, housekeepers, store crew, clerks, and office staff. DOLE Officer-in-Charge Undersecretary Benedicto Ernesto Bitonio emphasized the department's commitment to holding job fairs regularly. He highlighted the benefits for jobseekers, noting that they no longer need to travel to complete pre-employment requirements, resulting in lower costs and faster transactions.
Partnership with Civil Service Commission
Bitonio also announced a partnership with the Civil Service Commission to expand job seekers' access to employment opportunities in the public sector. He stated, "From now on, the areas of opportunity and choices brought about by job fairs will expand because government vacancies shall now be included."
Historical Data
DOLE data from July 2022 to February 2026 shows that over 6,600 job fairs were held nationwide, attracting more than 1.5 million job seekers. Of those, more than 250,000 individuals were hired on the spot. The department intends to continue these efforts to facilitate employment across the country.
