By Mariela Angella Oladive
Passi City was named grand champion of the 2024 Governor’s Award for Best Public Employment Service Office (PESO), beating 17 other local government units during the April 10 awarding ceremony held as part of the 124th Semana sang Iloilo celebration.
The annual search, organized by the Iloilo provincial government, recognizes outstanding PESO offices for their performance in employment facilitation and positive impact on communities.
Passi City received a PHP30,000 cash prize and the Best Video Presentation special award.
The Municipality of Tigbauan placed first and received PHP25,000, along with the Best Narrative award.
Oton secured second place with PHP22,000 and was also recognized for having the most number of applicants encoded in the Employment Facilitation and Placement System (EFPS).
Barotac Viejo placed third and earned PHP20,000, while Balasan finished fourth and took home PHP15,000.
All top winners received trophies.
Each participating LGU received PHP6,000, while nominees for the top awards were given PHP10,000 each.
Provincial Administrator Dr. Raul Banias, representing Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr., highlighted the importance of the event in his message.
“This search for outstanding Public Employment and Services Offices is more than just a ceremonial occasion; it’s a tribute to the silent yet powerful work PESOs do every day to connect people with opportunities, to uplift rights, and to turn hope into reality,” Banias said.
He also emphasized that the competition aligns with the MoRProGRes (Movement for Robust, Progressive, Globally Competitive, and Resilient Iloilo) development agenda.
Department of Migrant Workers Assistant Secretary Levinson Alcantara echoed Banias, noting the critical role of PESOs in building sustainable employment pathways and supporting local economies.
Department of Labor and Employment Iloilo Field Office Head Joselito Dela Banda, speaking on behalf of Regional Director Atty. Sixto Rodriguez Jr., commended PESOs for their responsiveness to the demands of an evolving labor market.
Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member Hon. Amalia Victoria F. Debuque, chairperson of the Committee on Labor and Employment, also praised PESOs for expanding employment access and fostering hope among job seekers.
The event was attended by Board Members Rolando Distura (4th District) and June Mondejar (2nd District), along with officials from national agencies, barangay PESO coordinators, and representatives from academic institutions and private companies.
