Manila: The Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (CMD), spearheaded by Leyte Representative Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, has introduced the 'Ginhawa sa Paghahanap ng Trabaho Act.' This legislative measure aims to streamline the job search process, making it more accessible and less burdensome for job seekers.
According to Philippines News Agency, the proposed legislation primarily targets first-time job seekers and young Filipinos. These individuals often face challenges such as spending extensive time lining up for clearances, photocopying documents, and repeatedly submitting the same paperwork for each job application. The bill forms a crucial part of the Lakas-CMD's GINHAWA KIT (Kuryente-Internet-Trabaho) initiative, which aims to provide everyday relief by addressing issues related to electricity costs, internet access, and employment opportunities.
Romualdez emphasized that the bill represents a significant reform that aims to respect job seekers' time, protect their documents, and facilitate faster hiring processes. He noted that the reform is part of a broader effort to deliver tangible relief to underprivileged and underserved communities, making the initial steps into the workforce simpler, safer, and more dignified for Filipino families.
The 'Ginhawa sa Paghahanap ng Trabaho Act' updates the First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act by addressing not only fees and charges but also the fragmented and repetitive documentary requirements that burden applicants, especially newcomers to the job market. The bill proposes limiting government-issued documentary requirements to a standard set necessary for employer screening. This includes identification through the Philippine National ID, clearance from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) when relevant to the job, and competency credentials such as certified true copies of school records or equivalent educational proof.
Furthermore, the bill prohibits employers from demanding original civil registry documents, such as birth or marriage certificates, as a condition for job application screening or interviews. It also introduces a 'No Multiple Clearance Rule,' which prevents employers from requiring additional clearances if an NBI clearance has already been provided, unless mandated by specific laws or regulations.
House Bill 8192 also plans to establish an Employment Verification Service integrated with eGovPH. This service will be developed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment, the Civil Service Commission, and other relevant agencies. It will enable employers to verify select job-application information through QR-enabled verification, contingent on the applicant's affirmative and revocable consent.
