By Xander Ledesma
A total of 196 workers in Lapu-Lapu City lost their jobs in late October 2024 as two companies either ceased operations or reduced staff due to market challenges. The Lapu-Lapu City Public Employment Service Office (PESO) reported that 113 employees were laid off from a firm producing ornamental pots, which cited a decline in market demand and decreased foreign orders as reasons for the downsizing. Meanwhile, an additional 83 workers were displaced after a Japanese-owned company permanently closed after 27 years in the city’s economic zone.
According to PESO officer-in-charge Kim Francisco, the Japanese company decided to shut down operations as its owners were no longer able to manage the business. The displaced employees have been promised endorsements to other companies, though reemployment is not guaranteed and will require workers to reapply.
In response to the displacement, PESO will refer the workers to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region 7 and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region 7 for possible financial and livelihood assistance. However, Francisco noted that cash aid distribution may be delayed due to other pending cases.
To support the displaced workers, PESO has scheduled a local and overseas job fair on November 8 at The Outlets Pueblo Verde, with additional opportunities for job seekers at a barangay job fair in Barangay Canjulao on November 29. Since 2023, a total of 8, 079 workers in the area have been displaced due to nine company closures.