Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian is pushing a bill that would lower the cost of getting pre-employment documents for poor Filipinos looking for work.
Under Senate Bill No. 638, or the Kabalikat sa Hanapbuhay Act, indigent job seekers will get a 20% discount on government fees for documents commonly required when applying for a job.
The proposal also seeks to waive fees for transcripts of records, diplomas, transfer credentials, and certificates of good moral character issued by state and local universities.
Gatchalian said many Filipinos miss employment opportunities because they cannot afford the cost of securing these requirements.
“Poor job seekers should not be deprived of employment opportunities simply because they cannot afford the cost of securing pre-employment documents,” he said.
He added that with the rising cost of living, government should make it easier, not more expensive, for poor Filipinos to find work.IMT
