A total of 14,710 individuals were hired in 2024 through Makati's Job Referral and Placement Program spearheaded by its Public Employment Service Office (PESO), Makati Mayor Abby Binay said on Monday, Feb. 3.

From January to December last year, 14,710 of the 15,967 jobseekers referred to accredited private companies were employed, posting a hiring rate of 92 percent. This has surpassed the program’s annual target hiring rate of at least 60 percent.

“The program’s success underscores Makati City’s commitment to address unemployment and support residents and non-residents in finding gainful employment,” she said, as she underscored the importance of sustained efforts to enhance employment opportunities such as strategic partnerships with the business community.

“Through innovative programs and partnerships, we aim to provide more job opportunities. The success of our job placement program highlights the positive and lasting impact of partnerships between the city government and the private sector,” the mayor explained.

Makati's PESO had organized two major job fairs in 2024 - the Mega Job Fair and In-House Job Fair aimed at facilitating the job search for unemployed, underemployed, and displaced residents and non-residents. These events allowed hundreds of qualified applicants to connect directly with employers.

During these fairs, 915 applicants registered, 550 were deemed competent, and 226 individuals were hired on-the-spot.

"The PESO Job Referral and Placement Program remains vital to Makati’s comprehensive strategy to boost employment and economic resilience. By connecting job seekers with employers and hosting large-scale job fairs, the city continues to empower its workforce and contribute to local economic growth and national development," the city government said.

"Residents and non-residents are encouraged to visit the My Makati Facebook page for updates about upcoming job fairs and employment services," it added.