"The Impact of DOLE's Assistance on Ex-POGO Workers

The Impact of DOLE's Assistance on Ex-POGO Workers

In response to the recent shutdown of Philippine offshore gaming operations (POGOs), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has launched initiatives to support displaced workers. As the country navigates this significant change, it is essential to explore the impact of these efforts on ex-POGO workers.

A Call to Action

Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma has appealed to approximately 40,000 former POGO workers to seek assistance at DOLE offices if they are still seeking employment. This commitment to supporting affected workers demonstrates the department's dedication to mitigating the consequences of the POGO shutdown.

DOLE Job Fair: A Step in the Right Direction

The recent DOLE job fair in Pasay City aimed to provide employment opportunities for displaced POGO workers, resulting in a hiring rate of 100 workers on the spot. Although this outcome may not have been as extensive as hoped, it highlights the challenges faced by these workers in finding new jobs. Despite this setback, Laguesma remains optimistic about the department's ability to assist ex-POGO workers.

A Path Forward for Ex-POGO Workers

Laguesma emphasizes that while some internet gaming employees have already found new employment opportunities, many others remain unemployed, hoping to be re-hired once POGOs are allowed to resume operations. Additionally, some displaced workers struggle to find suitable employment due to salary disparities between their previous and potential new roles.

Upskilling for a Competitive Job Market

To enhance the employability of ex-POGO workers, DOLE is offering skills development training, which aims to equip them with the necessary skills to thrive in the modern job market. By providing this support, the department hopes to reduce the number of unemployed POGO workers and help them transition into new careers.

The Human Impact

For many ex-POGO workers, the shutdown of POGOs has been a devastating blow, leading to loss of income, uncertainty about their future, and negative impacts on mental and emotional well-being. By providing assistance and support, DOLE is not only helping these workers find new employment but also addressing the broader social implications of the POGO shutdown.

A Path Forward for POGOs

In conclusion, the impact of DOLE's ready-to-aid ex-POGO workers is significant. By offering job fairs, skills development training, and other forms of support, the department is helping to mitigate the effects of the POGO shutdown on workers. As we look ahead to 2025, it will be crucial for DOLE to continue its efforts to support ex-POGO workers and help them thrive in their new careers.

Keywords: DOLE, POGO, job fair, skills development, employment opportunities, labor department, Philippine offshore gaming operators.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.