BICOL REGION — As part of its 2025 Research Agenda, the Institute for Labor Studies (ILS) conducted a series of data gathering activities in Bicol Region from 07 to 11 April 2025, for its ongoing study titled, "The Role of Job Placement Offices (JPOs) as Strategic Partners in Public Employment Services and Industry-Driven Employment."

ILS researchers Ms. Athena Son, Mr. Loren Cayabyab, and Mr. Marvin Cabangunay engaged with nine (9) accredited Job Placement Offices (JPOs) from educational institutions and non-government organization in the Bicol Region. These included the University of Santo Tomas-Legazpi, Computer Arts and Technological College, Divine World College of Legazpi, Sorsogon State University, Estenias Science Foundation School, Inc., Catanduanes State University, University of Nueva Caceres, Southern Luzon Technological College Foundation, Inc., and Children International – Bicol. The team conducted surveys and interviews using the localized International Labour Organization Public Employment Service (PES) Diagnostic Tool, which is based on the Cluster-Based Framework that assesses governance and strategy, management and resources, labor market services, partnerships, and performance management.

Meanwhile, Public Employment Service Office (PESO) managers and DOLE regional employment focal persons participated in focus group discussions aimed at examining their interactions with and oversight of JPOs. To validate and enrich the findings, the ILS research team also met with JPO clients including students, successfully placed jobseekers, and industry partners.

The JPO Study is in collaboration with the Bureau of Local Employment and scheduled to be presented at the annual DOLE Research Conference in October 2025.

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