Manila, Philippines (July 29, 2023) – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) headed by Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma delivered an inspirational congratulatory speech for the 10,764 newly registered Nurses who took their oath at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) anchored by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).
In his remarks, Secretary Laguesma congratulated the nurses on this meaningful career milestone that rewards their hard work and perseverance. He acknowledged nurses as invaluable frontline caregivers, especially throughout the pandemic. Secretary Laguesma reiterated the government’s commitment to support nurses through improving standards, licensing, continuing education, and incentives.
He highlighted nurse Mary Lorraine Pingol’s inspirational story of receiving the “Bayaning Nars” award in 2020 for assisting a homeless woman during childbirth, exemplifying nurses’ compassion. However, Secretary Laguesma noted that the Philippines faces a shortage of 127,000 nurses and 114,000 doctors. He urged the new nurses to consider serving the nation, as their skills are desperately needed in hospitals, clinics, and communities.
Moreover, Secretary Laguesma outlined the DOLE’s initiatives under the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 to enhance healthcare and strengthen the system. This includes improving job matching and data to connect nurses to opportunities through platforms like PhilJobNet. Currently, 3,640 government nursing vacancies are available.
In closing, Secretary Laguesma encouraged the new nurses to uphold their oath and positively impact lives through their skills and empathy.
PhilJobNet, introduced by Bureau of Local Employment Director Patrick Patriwirawan, Jr., aligns with PRC Commissioner Jose Cueto’s efforts to boost employment opportunities, particularly in the healthcare sector. By utilizing PhilJobNet, DOLE aims to link qualified candidates to open positions across healthcare providers. This focus strengthens the country’s healthcare workforce, a critical priority for DOLE and the Department of Health (DOH).
In collaboration with DOH, DOLE installed a PhilJobNet booth during the oathtaking to raise awareness of the portal’s capabilities. Flyers and brochures disseminated during the event, further supported by DOLE Assistant Secretary Paul Vincent Añover, aim to educate and guide job seekers about the features and benefits of this groundbreaking initiative. This pilot initiative paves the way for similar efforts at oath-taking ceremonies nationwide.
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