THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) yesterday expressed belief that more jobs will be created by the extended Christmas season in the Philippines.
In a radio interview, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said they expect the employment rate in the coming months to rise even higher.
“As is usual during the ‘ber’ months, the economy is more vibrant as many companies involved in the country’s long Christmas celebration increase their workers and employees,” said Laguesma.
But the labor chief admitted that retaining “seasonal” employees remains a challenge.
“After the Christmas season, that is the real challenge for us,” Laguesma said, adding the DOLE will continue to work on having permanent and better paying jobs.
“We hope there will be more continuous work, where there is job security and better pay,” said Laguesma.
According to the July 2022 Labor Force Survey result, the unemployment rate dropped to 5.2 percent, which is lower than the 6 percent recorded last June 2022.
On the other hand, the underemployment rate rose to 13.8 percent in July 2022, from 12.6 per month last June.
According to labor groups, the result of the Labor Force Survey indicates that more part time jobs than full-time jobs are being created.
