Bacolod's Valentine's Day Job Fair Connects Thousands with Employment Opportunities
A significant employment event unfolded in Bacolod City as a total of 3,653 jobseekers participated in the Valentine's Day Job Fair held at SM City Bacolod North Block on February 14, 2026. This large-scale gathering was meticulously organized by the Public Employment Service Office (Peso)-Bacolod in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), demonstrating a strong public-private partnership aimed at boosting local employment rates.
Event Leadership and Optimistic Outlook
The job fair was spearheaded by Peso coordinator Jovelyn Canoy, who worked alongside DOLE officials and various representatives. Canoy expressed high hopes for the event through Peso's innovative "Love at First Hire" program, designed to facilitate quick connections between applicants and potential employers. "We hope you find the job you are looking for through our Peso Valentine's Day Job Fair program, 'Love at First Hire,'" Canoy stated, emphasizing the program's goal of matching candidates with suitable positions efficiently.
Impressive Hiring Results and Workforce Readiness
Out of the 3,653 applicants, an impressive 2,895 were qualified for various roles, and 46 individuals were hired on the spot. These results not only highlight the immediate success of the fair but also showcase the readiness, determination, and competitiveness of Bacolod's local workforce. The qualified applicants have been endorsed for further screening, interviews, or processing based on the specific requirements of each participating company, ensuring a tailored approach to employment matching.
Broad Participation from Local and International Companies
Canoy reported that at least 70 local and international companies took part in the event, offering a wide array of job opportunities across multiple sectors. These included hospitality, retail, skilled services, business process outsourcing, and overseas employment, providing diverse pathways for jobseekers to explore. This broad participation underscores the growing interest from employers in tapping into Bacolod's talent pool and the city's evolving economic landscape.
Growth Compared to Previous Years and Program Expansion
The 2026 job fair marked a substantial increase from the previous year's event. In 2025, the Valentine's Day fair recorded 1,934 applicants and 30 on-the-spot hires, meaning the 2026 edition saw a near-doubling in applicant numbers and a significant rise in immediate hires. Canoy attributed this growth to the expanding reach and effectiveness of Peso's programs, which have become more robust and targeted over time.
This event also represents the 27th job fair organized by Peso since the beginning of Mayor Greg Gasataya's administration. This milestone underscores the city government's unwavering commitment to connecting residents with meaningful livelihoods and fostering economic development through sustained employment initiatives.
Key Agency Partners and Their Messages
The job fair benefited from the involvement of key partner agencies, including Carmella Abellar, chief of the DOLE-Negros Occidental Field Office, and Richard Aprosta, supervising labor and employment officer of the Department of Migrant Workers. Aprosta delivered a crucial message to applicants, particularly those considering overseas work. He urged them to prioritize safety and legitimacy by selecting only verified and licensed agencies. "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," Aprosta advised. He also revealed that the department has assisted in repatriating 190 distressed migrant workers from Cambodia, highlighting the risks of illegal recruitment and the importance of vigilance.
Abellar, on the other hand, encouraged applicants to remain hopeful and proactive in their career journeys. "We hope you find your opportunity today. Once you find employment, nurture it because it can open doors to better opportunities in the future. While employment rates may rise and fall, underemployment remains a challenge. If you are unable to secure a job today, continue to improve yourself by upgrading your skills and taking advantage of free government training programs," she said. Her remarks emphasized the value of continuous skill development and leveraging available resources to enhance employability in a dynamic job market.
The Valentine's Day Job Fair in Bacolod City stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of government agencies, private companies, and the community in driving employment growth and supporting the local economy.
