THE Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Saturday, May 6, 2023, said work experience is the foremost criterion being looked at by foreign employers among applicants.
According to DMW Undersecretary Bernard Olalia, it is in work experience that employers are most interested in among those looking to become overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
"Those looking to gain employment abroad, employers are primarily looking at your work experiences," said Olalia.
He said this is the reason why many overseas employers are looking for applicants, who are 25 years and older.
"They want those that already have working experience in different local companies, and are in search of more opportunities abroad," said Olalia.
Aside from work experiences, the DMW official said foreign firms are interested in the skill set of applicants.
"If you are skilled or semi-skilled workers and possess National Certificate (NC) I or II from Tesda (Technical Education and Skills Development Authority), these are recognized by foreigners," noted Olalia.
The official said foreign employers are also looking at the soft skills of applicants.
"Their willingness to learn, dedication to work, and work ethics, these are the soft skills being looked for by foreign employers," said Olalia.
On May 1, the DMW held an overseas job fair, wherein 12,500 job opportunities were offered by recruitment and manning agencies.
As a result, some 6,300 applicants have been set for further interviews and are expected to become OFWs soon.
Olalia said another overseas job fair is being set by DMW on June 12, which is the celebration of Independence Day. (HDT/SunStar Philippines)