Landbased Recruitment Agencies (LRAs) in the Philippines, which are licensed by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW, formerly POEA), serve as an essential bridge connecting Filipino workers with overseas employers.

Their services can be broadly categorized into two main groups: Services for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and Services for Foreign Employers/Principals.

Services for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)

For the job seeker, the key services include:

1. Job Sourcing and Placement:

• Advertising and canvassing for job vacancies abroad.
• Matching job seekers’ skills and qualifications with approved job orders from accredited foreign employers.

2. Recruitment and Selection:

• Conducting preliminary screening, interviews, and skills assessments.
• Maintaining a database and roster of qualified candidates.

3. Documentation and Processing:

• Assisting workers in securing necessary documents, such as passports, medical certificates, and government clearances.
• Processing the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) with the DMW, which serves as an exit clearance and guarantee of legal deployment.

4. Pre-Departure Orientation:

• Conducting Pre-Employment Orientation Seminars (PEOS) and Pre-Departure Orientation Seminars (PDOS) to inform workers about their employment contract, destination country’s laws and culture, and support systems available.

5. Welfare and Support:

• Ensuring the employment contract adheres to DMW standards, specifying fair wages, working conditions, and benefits.
• Providing support and assistance to workers after deployment, including addressing concerns or disputes with employers.

Services for Foreign Employers/Principals

For the companies abroad looking to hire Filipino talent, the key services include:

1. Manpower Sourcing and Recruitment:

• Receiving and processing the manpower request from the foreign employer.
• Sourcing, screening, and selecting the most qualified Filipino professionals and workers based on the employer’s specific needs.

2. Accreditation and Documentation:

• Facilitating the accreditation and registration of the foreign principal/employer with the DMW.
• Submitting the necessary documents, such as the Special Power of Attorney (SPA) and Master Employment Contract, for DMW approval.

3. Deployment Logistics:

• Assisting in visa applications and other travel arrangements.
• In some cases, providing airport reception for the employer’s representatives and local support during the recruitment process in the Philippines (e.g., hotel booking, transportation).

4. Administrative Support:

• Handling the full cycle of the recruitment process from initial screening to final deployment.

In essence, these agencies act as the authorized channel to legally recruit and deploy Filipino workers, ensuring compliance with both Philippine laws (DMW regulations) and the labor laws of the host country.