JOB mismatch remains to be the main cause of unemployment in the Cordillera.
Department of Labor and Employment Cordillera Administrative Region (DOLE-CAR) regional director Exequiel Ronie Guzman said despite various jobs offered, many applicants are unfit for qualifications set by employers.
"Ang job mismatching hanggang ngayon ay mayroon pa yan. Ang mga employers kasi natin hindi yung kurso yung tinitignan, karamihan ay yung experience, at iba pang qualifications kasama na ang attitude," Guzman said.
“Dito sa Cordillera, kapag may jobs fair marami ang nakahain na trabaho pero qualifications ang problema dahil ang hinahanap nila ay malayo naman sa course na nakuha ng mga applicants, ang tinitignan ay experience. Pero kapag nag-apply ang mga new graduates walang masyadong nakukuha dahil wala pang experience,” Guzman explained.
“Sa Baguio, maraming mga retail and services ang available na pwedeng pasukan, kapag HRM ang tinapos mo ay pwede kang magtrabaho sa mall,” Guzman added.
To address this problem, DOLE continues its coaching guidance to students in different educational institutions in the region. The counseling will help students decide on what course to choose which can be in demand for the next four to five years.
DOLE is also conducting dialogues with employers to hire and give considerations to newly graduates to gain work experience.
The labor official reminded applicants to grab every opportunity when there are jobs available.
"Huwag silang mapili sa trabaho, kung may darating , grab the opportunity para makakuha ng trabaho. Have self-confidence na kaya nilang gampanan ang trabaho and they need also to possess the necessary values,” Guzman added.
DOLE has also advised incoming college students to take up the course that would still be in demand after their graduation including courses related to tourism, human resource management, business management, teaching, engineering and accounting. Students may also take some technical skills training that will help them find a job in the future. (Ian Jefrey Addatu)