Beyond barriers: PWD Job Fair promotes inclusive employment opportunities
- Jul 27
- 3 min read
By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay
NAGA CITY --- Clinging to the hope and the promise of a fresh start, 24-year-old Rosalinda Shah took part in the 2026 Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Job Fair and was accepted for the first time, after years of experiencing rejection in the past.
Shah held on to her faith, believing it could lead her to an employer who would look beyond her disability and recognize the skills she had worked hard to earn.
A deaf job seeker from Minalabac, Camarines Sur, Shah graduated from the Bicol State College of Applied Sciences and Technology (BISCAST), with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology, majoring in Food Trades.
She once thought having a diploma was enough to find a job that she loved. Yet like many persons with disabilities, she discovered that earning a college degree does not always lead to employment, as barriers to equal job opportunities continue to persist.
Although she had experienced rejection in previous job applications, Shah refused to lose hope. She remained optimistic that, with persistence and perseverance, the right opportunity would eventually come her way.
“Happy daw kasi nagkaroon ng opportunity na like this po sa job fair,” said an interpreter during an interview with Shah through sign language.
(She is happy to be allowed to be part of the PWD Job Fair.)
Shah’s story mirrors the experiences of many persons with disabilities who continue to face barriers to employment despite having the skills and qualifications to succeed. The PWD Job Fair on July 15 sought to change that by connecting job seekers with employers committed to inclusive hiring, giving applicants like Shah a chance to turn hope into opportunity.
Another lucky participant was Zyrus Martin Rapada, 25. With his documents safely tucked in his folder, coupled with a positive attitude, he searched for an employer who would recognize his abilities beyond his disability.
Rapada graduated from City Global College with a degree in Information Technology. As a fresh graduate, he expects to find job aligned with his skills.
Joy Durante, PWD consultant of Biggs Inc., said the company participated in the job fair to reach more applicants, particularly PWDs, whom they believe can contribute to the workplace.
“Gusto namin makatulong sa mga PWDs,” Durante said, adding that Biggs Inc. currently employs PWD workers in its commissary and as food handlers.
(We would like to help PWDs.)
During the job fair, at least 580 job vacancies were offered by six participating employers. The activity was organized through the partnership of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Metro Naga Public Employment Service Office (PESO), and Robinsons management as part of the celebration of PWD Month.
For Atty. Paul John Barrosa, head of the Naga City Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO), said that creating an inclusive community requires continuous efforts to improve accessibility and employment opportunities for PWDs.
“Dapat maging inklusibo ang satuyang komunidad. Dapat pantay-pantay asin maski po may kakundian dae ibig sabihon na maasa nalang kita sa satong pamilya, may kakayanan po kita,” he said.
(Our community should be inclusive. Everyone should be treated equally, and having a disability does not mean we should simply depend on our families. We are still capable.)
Given equal opportunity, PWDs can prove that they are more than capable of being part of the workforce.
“Habang po ginigibo ta ini taon-taon, mas nagdadakol si nakakaaram, mas nagdadakol si nagha-hire ning mga PWD asin mas nagdadakol si natatawan ta mga may kakundian ning oportunidad para po sa saindang sadiri asin pamilya,” Barrosa said.
(While we continue to emphasize this message every year, an increasing number of persons with disabilities (PWDs) are being hired across various workplaces. These opportunities empower them not only to support themselves but also to provide for their families.)
Barrosa added that advancements in technology and accessibility initiatives have helped create more opportunities for PWDs.
He noted that even other government agencies like the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) also ensure accessibility features in barangay halls across the city.
Through job fairs, more establishments are also becoming aware of the benefits of hiring PWDs, including available incentives such as tax deductions.
The stories of Shah and other PWD applicants show that employment opportunities are not only about finding jobs but also about creating workplaces where individuals can contribute based on their skills and abilities.
As businesses move toward more inclusive workplaces, some companies have started creating opportunities for PWD workers.
Through stronger partnerships among applicants, employers, and government agencies, inclusive employment becomes a shared responsibility toward building communities where PWDs can participate fully in the workforce. (Nicole Frilles contributed to this story- PIA 5/Camarines Sur)
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