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| The First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act exempts fees for pre-employment papers, giving financial aid to first-time job hunters in the Philippines. Photo: DOLE/Facebook |
(UPDATED) In a landmark move to empower the nation's first-time jobseekers, the Philippine government has enacted the First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act. This legislation aims to facilitate smoother entry into the job market by waiving the fees for commonly required pre-employment documents.
Under the Act, Filipinos seeking employment for the first time can obtain various key documents free of charge.
These documents, ordinarily issued by appropriate government agencies for a fee, include Barangay and Police clearances, NBI clearance, specific medical certificates, birth and marriage certificates, transcripts of records, diplomas, the Taxpayer Identification Number and ID, the Civil Service Certificate of Eligibility, PhilHealth ID, POEA and MARINA certificates, Mayor's clearance, and TESDA National Certificates and Certificates of Competencies.
This groundbreaking legislation aims to lessen the financial burden typically faced by first-time job seekers when procuring essential documentation. By waiving these fees, the government hopes to level the playing field and make job-seeking a more attainable goal for all Filipinos.
To benefit from the Act, first-time job seekers must follow the said process:
Step 1 – Secure the Barangay Certification
Visit your local Barangay office at your place of residence. Apply for a Barangay certification, ensuring that it states explicitly that you are a first-time job seeker. As part of this process, you must execute an Oath of Undertaking to confirm your status as a first-time job seeker.
Step 2 – Present the Barangay Certification to the Relevant Government Agency
With your original Barangay certification, visit the appropriate government agency for the pre-employment document you need. Present the Barangay certification to the agency officer to avail of the document free of charge. It's important to remember to comply with the existing rules and processes of the agency while securing the documents.
Step 3 – Obtain Your Pre-Employment Documents
After presenting your Barangay certification, you will receive your pre-employment documents free of charge. This can include a range of documents such as NBI clearance, medical certificates, birth and marriage certificates, transcript of records, certificate of graduation/completion, diploma, and many more.
Step 4 – Secure Employment
Proceed to seek employment with your new set of pre-employment documents.
Step 5 – Report Back to the Barangay
Once you have obtained employment, return to your Barangay and report your employment status. This is a crucial step in ensuring the continued success and accuracy of the First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act.
Learn more about the First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act here:
FIRST TIME JOBSEEKER KA BA? The First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act aims to empower Filipinos actively seeking...
Posted by DOLE-Bureau of Local Employment on Tuesday, May 9, 2023
More information regarding the First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act can be found on the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) website at bit.ly/FTJAA_DOLE.
This initiative represents a significant stride in the government's commitment to aiding its citizens in their employment journey, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder the aspirations of young Filipinos entering the job market for the first time. —iTacloban/AJ Yes