• CHERYL G. CRUZ
The Department of Labor and Employment-Negros Island Region is calling on fresh graduates, skilled workers, and employment seekers to participate in the 2026 Kalayaan Job Fair in the cities of Bacolod and Dumaguete.
This year’s job fair, in observance of the 128th Philippine Independence Day, aims to provide greater access to employment opportunities by bringing together employers and applicants in one venue.
In Bacolod, the job fair will be held at the main atrium of SM City Bacolod, and those interested may pre-register via https://forms.gle/ZEkpUJj5hVUJjkGX7.
In Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, no pre-registration is required to join the job fair that will be held at Robinsons Mall, the DOLE-NIR said.
Applicants are encouraged to bring multiple copies of their resume, relevant credentials, and come prepared for possible on-the-spot interviews, it added.
The DOLE, meanwhile, is reminding employers to observe the correct holiday pay rules for June 12, a Friday, and ensure that employees receive the wages and benefits due them under the law.
Under Labor Advisory 11, series of 2026, signed by Secretary Francis Tolentino, employees who render work on the regular holiday are entitled to receive twice, or 200 percent, of their daily wage for the first eight hours of work. “Employees who work beyond eight hours on the holiday shall be paid an additional 30 percent of their hourly rate.”
Those who work on June 12 and whose schedule coincides with their rest day are entitled to an additional 30 percent of their holiday rate. “Overtime work performed on a regular holiday that also falls on a rest day shall likewise be compensated with an additional 30 percent of the employee’s hourly rate on that day.”
Workers who do not report for work on June 12 are still entitled to receive their full daily wage, provided they meet the conditions set under existing labor regulations, the DOLE said.
Those who have questions or concerns regarding holiday pay and other labor standards may seek assistance from the nearest DOLE regional office or its attached agencies, Tolentino said in a statement. “Workers may likewise contact the DOLE Hotline 1349 or visit the official DOLE Facebook page for information, guidance, and assistance on labor and employment-related concerns.” | CGC
