In celebration of National Women’s Month, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) held the “Mega Job Fair Para sa mga Kababaihan” that offered 3,470 job opportunities for women seeking overseas employment.

DMW Undersecretary Felicitas Bay highlighted the event’s significance in recognizing the contributions of women workers to the nation.

“Sa ating mga women workers, ikinararangal ng DMW na kami ay kasama ng mga women workers at ito ay isang pagpupugay namin para sa ating mga (To our women workers, DMW is honored to be among women workers and this is our tribute to our) women workers. We value the importance of women in our society. We have so many women workers outside the country,” she said.

She noted that women workers excel in skilled and professional fields, breaking barriers in industries once dominated by men.

Among the sectors that offered jobs were hospitality and tourism, healthcare, manufacturing, and skilled trades like factory workers; wellness such as hairdressers, nail technicians, beauty salons; and the maritime and shipping industry.

Countries of deployment included Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Hungary and Brunei.

“Women are no longer confined to household work. We now have Filipinas working as welders, electronic technicians and even seafarers in international cruise ships,” she said.

Higher pay, career growth

Dona Nakpil, 26, a hospitality worker, set her sights on the cruise and hotel industry.

“The pay in the Philippines just isn’t enough. I realized that working abroad would give me more financial stability,” Nakpil said.

Angelika Bercita, 26, prefers a job in the maritime industry. She just returned to the country in February after working for nine months in Qatar.

“My goal is to work in Europe. I’ve undergone safety and security training, so I hope that helps me stand out,” she shared.

Licensed recruitment and manning agencies looked for specific skills and qualifications but also received resumes from other applicants for future employment.

Danilo Bendal, talent sourcing supervisor at Magsaysay Maritime Corporation, said there is high demand for cruise ship workers.

“We have urgent hiring for food and beverage, housekeeping, dining and casino roles. Women applicants are increasing and that’s a great sign for the industry,” Bendal said.

Meanwhile, Cheryl Badar of All Seasons Manpower said nurses and teachers are also in demand abroad.

“Saudi Arabia is hiring a large number of nurses and the US is recruiting Filipino teachers. These positions offer great salaries and many have no placement fees,” she explained.

The DMW legitimate recruitment agencies may be verified through https://dmw.gov.ph/licensed-recruitment-agencies. (PNA)