High Demand Jobs

Tawdheef Job Fair 2012

2012-02-01T11:16:00.001+08:00

The Tawdheef Job Fair 2012 is currently on-going in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

Although the job fair prioritizes Emiratis and UAE nationals, the third day of the said job fair will be open to all nationalites.

Tawdheef Job fair 2012

Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre

Thursday, 2 February 2012: 9:30am - 7pm
(Open to all Nationalities)

For more information, please visit http://www.tawdheef.ae/

Gulf News reported that Abu Dhabi is projected to create 600,000 new jobs over the next decade.

Latest Citizenship and Immigration Canada Info Right at Your OWN Web Presence via CIC Widget

2012-01-28T10:57:00.003+08:00

Two questions.

Are you interested to work or migrate to Canada now or in the future?

Do you have your own blog, website or social media page?

If you answer YES to both questions, then the recently launched Citizenship and Immigration Canada Widget is right for you.

You can just copy & paste the widget code in your blog, website or social media page and voila! You get the latest information about working or migrating to Canada.

Your browser does not support iframes. To access the information please visit cic.gc.ca

Get the CIC widget code here and paste it on your blog or website template/theme or social media page.

December 2011 CPA Licensure Exam in Middle East, Results to 17 New CPAs

2012-01-16T21:15:00.001+08:00

Congratulations to 17 new Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) who successfully hurdled the Licensure examination given by the Board of Accountancy in Middle East countries last December 2011.

The Professional Regulation Commission released the results of the Certified Public Accountant Licensure Examination held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Jeddah & Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and in Doha, Qatar.

Here are the 17 new CPAs:

1 Arca, Ernesto Jr. Ignacio
2 Balagot, Bernadethe Ng
3 Barrion, Arnold Acosta
4 Biescas, Alan Bonto
5 Carmen, Dante Rosindal
6 Castro, Marc Lester Ricamonte
7 Daria, Reynaldo Teneza
8 Fernandez, Ronalyn Delos Reyes
9 Marteriz, Ronald Ebrada
10 Palisoc, Nerissa Lumagui
11 Pineda, Erwin Diaz
12 Policarpio, Lalaine David
13 Ramilo, Cleto Orzo
14 Rempillo, Sherwin Viray
15 Similatan, Mary Grace Salisad
16 Tolentino, Florangel Acpal
17 Unte, Ashlanie Cosain

Obtaining a license to practice one's profession can help in career advancement like promotion and higher compensation.

By virtue of Executive Order 835, Filipinos currently in the Middle East can obtain their respective professional license without the need to return to the Philippines.

Professional OFWs are encouraged to try passing the licensure exams at least once in their lives.

Filipino Jobseekers Ought to Start 2012 Right by Attending the 15th Metro Job Fair at Market! Market!

2012-01-13T02:57:00.000+08:00

Looking for a job or perhaps a better one that you have at present? Job fairs are a good place to start your quest.

I saw an ad from Manila Bulletin about the 15th Metro Job Fair to be held in Taguig City. Be proactive this 2012 by attending it.

15th Metro Job Fair 2012

January 24 & 25, 2012
10 am to 7 pm
Market! Market! Activity Center
Bonifacio Global City
Taguig City

Organized by AdExhibit Incorporated

Industries participating in this job fair include BPO (Call Center), KPO, Medical Conglomerate and Information Technology. Overseas employment will also be offered.

Entrance to this job fair is freee and attendees get the chance to win lots of giveaway items to be given by participating companies.

Don't know how to get to Market! Market! ? Check out metromaniladirections.

Be there early and best of luck!

January 2012 Visa Bulletin - Happy New Year

2012-01-07T21:31:00.005+08:00

On or before July 1, 2012, a new list of priority occupations is expected to be issued through another Ministerial Instruction. Are you ready for this? If you are still interested to live and work in Canada to give your family a better quality of life, you have to act now! Let us get your application ready!

How to get your application ready?

1. Log in to http://clients.go2canada.com and start filling up the online forms.

2. Submit the required documents for checking. A simple mistake like birth certificate entries may cause delay, problem. Do not wait until the last minute to correct what is needed to be corrected.

3. Schedule an IELTS Examination. Please remember that the required module is the General Training. Take advantage of Free IELTS online simulation test. It is best if you will take a formal IELTS review before taking the exam.

4. Have your job description reviewed and enhanced. You need to document your employment history within the last ten years. Having these documents signed by your previous employers may take time.

5. If you are under the Privelege Plan, consider upgrading to Apply Now Pay Later Plan to get the full package. Your objective should be to be able to send your application to Centralized Intake Office within the first week once the new list is out.

If your occupation is included in the current priority list, you only have until June 30, 2012 or until the 500 cap is reached to get your application filed. Time is of the essence. Let's get your application filed!

What's NEW?

Modiefied Payment Form
In its effort to simplify and stremline the application process, Citizenship and Immigration Canada has been introducing changes in the system, process and application forms. The latest of which is the modified fee payment form.

Positive Assessment for RN as LPN
We told you before of the possibility for a Registered Nurse to qualify as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Well, there's an applicant who tried and fortunately got a positive assessment from CIO.

First Supervisa Issued at Canadian Visa Office in Manila
Filipinos are really fast. Citizenship and Immigration Canada started to accept applications for Parent and Grandparent Supervisas on December 1, 2011. Guess what? The first Supervisa was issued at Canadian Visa Office in Manila!

Canadian Visa Office Manila Visa - Processing Status

If you have your file number from Canadian Visa Office - Manila, you can actually check your application status online. But to give you an idea on what application date is currently being processed by Manila Visa Office, here's a breakdown based on the period applications were filed:

Pre-Feb 27, 2008 FSW Applications
Applications filed before February 27, 2008 are those filed mostly using the Simplified Application Process. Current proceesing period for this batch is 77 months. Canadian Visa Office in Manila is currently processing applications filed November 2004. Last month, an application filed Nov 25, 2004 received a notice from the visa office to update his application forms and other documents.

Ministerial Instruction 1 (MI-1)
MI-1 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from Feb 28, 2008 to June 25, 2010. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in of the 38 high demand occupations. They were originally promised 6-12 months processing period. The promised processing period materialized only during the first few months but since there's no limit on the number of applications to be received, it resulted to unanticpated backlogs. The latest notice we received under this batch was for application filed (documents submitted to Visa Office after CIO assessment) November 20, 2010. Current processing time under this batch is 17 months. Also noted is the delay in passport request/visa notice after the medical examination is done.

Ministerial Instruction 2 (MI-2)
MI-2 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from June 26, 2010 to June 30, 2011. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in any of the 29 in-demand occupations and were promised 6-12 months processing period. There's a cap of 1,000 applications per occupation, and the Canadian Visa Office in Manila is current so far. The latest who received Medical Examination requests under this group are those who received posistive assessment from CIO dated September 1, 2011.

Ministerial Instruction 3 (MI-3)
MI-3 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from July 1, 2011 to present. The latest assessment notice we have received so far are for those filed October 11, 2011. Please note that there are applications classified as Registered Nurses, Pharmacists and Professional Occupations in Business Services to Management that were filed earlier than October 11, 2011 that are yet to receive notice from CIO. Most nurse applicants whose applications were filed after July 15, 2011 are being returned unprocessed.

If you already have a File Number from the Visa Office, here's where to check your application status online: https://services3.cic.gc.ca/ecas/?app=ecas<=en

Let's help Typhoon Sendong Victims
There are ways more than one to help our kababayans in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan who were victims of typhoon Sendong.

May the year 2012 be the year all our dreams come true. Happy New Year!

January 2012 Visa Bulletin

Faster Overseas Employment Certificates (OEC) processing

2012-01-05T13:24:00.002+08:00

Here's a good news for Overseas Filipino Workers.

The new Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) chief Hans Cacdac promised to streamline operations and fast-track the processing of overseas employment certificates (OEC).

OEC is a mandatory document that a overseas contract worker from the Philippines must have. Without which, a worker will not be allowed to leave the country. OEC is not required for those moving to Canada with a permanent residence visa.

It would be best if POEA will allow online application for OEC, agree?

Watch the video interview here.

Help CDO

2011-12-18T15:59:00.001+08:00

Live-in Caregivers in Canada Now Enjoys Faster Issuance of Open Work Permits Among Other Advantages

2011-12-16T14:39:00.000+08:00

Canada's Live-in Caregiver Program (LCP) is one of easier for for foreign workers to obtain a permanent residence in Canada. I've used the word "easier", in the sense, that foreign workers hired as caregiver in Canada can become eligible for permanent residency after completing two years of work or 3,900 hours.

Plus, recent policy changes provides for faster issuance of open work permits for Live-in Caregivers.

LCP allows Canadian families to employ foreign workers to provide care to their child/children, elderly or member of their families with disabilities, provided that there is a proof of shortage of Canadians or permanent residents to fill that need.

In 2008, about 10,400 individuals (spouses & dependents included) became permanent residents from the 7,200 caregivers in 2005.

Canada deeply recognizes the role of live-in caregivers in their society that it has taken significant actions in protecting them from abuse and exploitation. Improvements made on the Live-in Caregiver Program in 2010 and the Temporary Foreign Worker Program in 2011 greatly increases the protection of caregivers. They are:

allowing live-in caregivers to apply for permanent residence after 3,900 work hours, rather than two years of work, to ensure overtime is appropriately recognized;
the elimination of the need for a second medical examination when the caregiver applies for permanent residence;
increasing the amount of time a caregiver has to complete their work bligations, from three years to four;
the adoption of a standardized employment contract that ensures both parties agree to the salary, hours of work, vacation time, overtime, holidays, sick leave, and the terms of termination and resignation;
defining the costs the employer is obliged to pay, including the caregiver’s travel expenses in coming to Canada, medical insurance, workplace safety insurance and third-party representative fees;
emergency processing of work permits and employer authorizations to hire live-in caregivers who have been abused and need to leave their employment immediately;
a dedicated phone service for live-in caregivers through the department’s Call Centre;
an assessment of the genuineness of the job offer, including confirmation that the caregiver would be residing in a private residence and providing child care, senior home support care or care of a disabled person in that household without supervision, as well as whether the employer has sufficient financial resources to pay the wages of the caregiver and whether the accommodations being provided are adequate;
and a two-year period of ineligibility from hiring foreign workers, including live-in caregivers, for employers who have failed to live up to the terms of past job contracts.

More good news for Live-in Caregivers in Canada as they can now be issued open work permits once they completed their obligation and submitted an application for permanent residence.

Previously, they have to wait first for the approval of their permanent resident application before being eligible to an open work permit. An open work permit allows the caregiver to move out of their employer's home and seek jobs in other fields if they so desire.

There may be a decline on the demand for live-in caregivers in Canada nowadays but that is a path worth exploring for those who dreamed of working, and eventually settling, in Canada.

UK Visa Online Application & Payment in Full Swing - UKBA

2011-12-15T18:35:00.000+08:00

The United Kingdom Border Agency's (UKBA) move to make visa application & payment via online by 2013 or 2014 is in full swing. Beginning December 19, 2011 all UK Visa applications must be completed using the UKBA online application system and be paid online in Euros.

The move is specifically for the following countries:

Austria (Vienna)
Bulgaria (Bucharest)
Poland (Warsaw)
Czech Republic (Prague)
Hungary (Budapest)
Sweden (Stockholm)
Finland (Helsinki)
Denmark (Copenhagen)
Serbia (Belgrade)
Macedonia (Skopje)
Iceland (Reykjavik)
Croatia (Zagreb)
Slovenia (Ljubljana)
Norway (Oslo)

UPDATE:

Kosovo (Pristina)
Moldova (Chisinau)

Location of the British Embassy on the country is indicated inside parentheses on the list.

Afterwhich, applicants will be given appointments as to when to submit printed copy of their application form and biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) to the visa application center at the British Embassy on that country. The appointments will be booked online.

So, for those interested in acquiring a UK Visa, it certainly helps to be online savvy and to know the website of the British Embassy in your area. Saving money now, preferably in Euros, will also be a big help to your application.

Source: UKBA Website

December 2011 Visa Bulletin - White Christmas

2011-12-08T01:48:00.000+08:00

The main difference between working abroad as a contract worker and as an immigrant is that as an immigrant, you have the option to bring your family with you. There is no need to leave your spouse and kids just to earn in dollars. It is more difficult for an overseas contract worker considering the sacrifice of leaving one's family just to make ends meet. That is why this Coca-Cola Where Will Happiness Strike Next: The OFW Project made a hit in online forums and social media websites. It touches the sacrifices and difficulties faced in working as an overseas contract worker - away from one's family.

But those who opted for a long-term solution, by immigrating to Canada, do not necessarily have the same problem. They are now enjoying a White Christmas!

Let's Get Your Application Filed

You signified your intention to have a long-term plan for your family by signing up a consultancy agreement with Canadian Immigration Consultancy. Let us then get your application filed!

If your occupation is in the current list of priority occupations, get your application filed now. The cap may reached sooner than you expect. Get in touch with your assigned consultant to address all your application concerns.

If your application is not yet filed because your occupation is not in the priority list, get your application forms and documents ready now. On or before July 1, 2012, a new list of priority occupations may be released through another Ministerial Instruction. Make sure that you will be able to file your application immediately if your occupation is included in the priority list.

What's New?

Free Online IELTS Simulation Test
For clients of Canadian Immigration Consultancy who can't visit our office for the FREE IELTS Simulation Test, you can now do the IELTS simulation test online!

First Time Immigrant Fare for 2012
Moving to Canada? Book your flight now via Cathay Pacific and avail of discounted fare as First Time Immigrant.

New Application Process for Provincial Nominee Program Applicants
Effective December 1, 2011, all provincial nominees must submit their permanent resident applications to CIC's new centralized intake unit in Sydney, N.S. This is after receiving the nomination certificate from the province.

Canadian Visa Office Manila Visa - Processing Status

If you have your file number from Canadian Visa Office - Manila, you can actually check your application status online. But to give you an idea on what application date is currently being processed by Manila Visa Office, here's a breakdown based on the period applications were filed:

Pre-Feb 27, 2008 FSW Applications
Applications filed before February 27, 2008 are those filed mostly using the Simplified Application Process. Current proceesing period for this batch is 77 months. Canadian Visa Office in Manila is currently processing applications filed November 2004. Last month, an application filed Nov 25, 2004 received a notice from the visa office to update his application forms and other documents.

Ministerial Instruction 1 (MI-1)
MI-1 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from Feb 28, 2008 to June 25, 2010. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in of the 38 high demand occupations. They were originally promised 6-12 months processing period. The promised processing period materialized only during the first few months but since there's no limit on the number of applications to be received, it resulted to unanticpated backlogs. The latest notice we received under this batch was for application filed (documents submitted to Visa Office after CIO assessment) November 18, 2010.

Ministerial Instruction 2 (MI-2)
MI-2 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from June 26, 2010 to June 30, 2011. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in any of the 29 in-demand occupations and were promised 6-12 months processing period. There's a cap of 1,000 applications per occupation, and the Canadian Visa Office in Manila is current so far.

Ministerial Instruction 3 (MI-3)
MI-3 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from July 1, 2011 to present. The latest assessment notice we have received so far are for those filed August 19, 2011. Please note that there applications classified as Registered Nurses, Pharmacists and Professional Occupations in Business Services to Management that were filed earlier than August 19 that are yet to receive notice from CIO.

If you already have a File Number from the Visa Office, here's where to check your application status online: https://services3.cic.gc.ca/ecas/?app=ecas&lang=en

December 2011 Visa Bulletin - White Christmas

1000 Slots for Young Japanese Nationals to Live, Work, Study in UK for up to 2 years

2011-12-07T13:09:00.000+08:00

[UPDATE Dec. 21, 2011] UK 2012 Youth Mobility Scheme

"All applicants have an equal chance of selection", says the UKBA. Do not believe immigration agents who claim that they increase someone's chance of being selected.

*****

The United Kingdom will open up its 2012 Youth Mobility Scheme in January 2012 offering 1,000 slots to young Japanese Nationals, allowing them to live, work or study in UK for up to 2 years.

Source: 2012 Youth Mobility Scheme

Japanese youth interested should request an application appointment via e-mail. They must send an e-mail to YMS2012-APPOINTMENT@vfshelpline.com stating that they are applying for the 2012 Youth Mobility Scheme and from what country they intend to apply from.

IMPORTANT:

The header or subject line of the email must contain your name, date of birth and passport number. For example: YAMADA Taro - 31/01/1990 - TH123456789.

The email account will only be open from 12:00 pm January 4, 2012 to 12:00 pm January 6, 2012 (Japan Time).

Only 1000 applicants will be chosen at random and will be sent an email confirmation by January 12, 2012. The e-mail confirmation also includes further instruction on how to proceed with the application.

Source: 2012 Youth Mobility Scheme

As Christmas is approaching, informing your young Japanese friends about this opportunity may be the best gift you can give them.

November 2011 Visa Bulletin

2011-11-15T23:51:00.005+08:00

As of November 10, 2011, Centralized Intake Office already received a total of 3,809 applications from the 29 in-demand occupations under Ministerial Instruction 3 (MI-3). Only a maximum of 10,000 applications will be received with a cap of 500 for each occupation. The cap for Professional Occupations in Business Services to Management and Registered Nurses have been reached few months ago. The next three applications nearing its cap are:

3131 Pharmacists 476
3113 Dentists 256
2121 Biologists and Related Scientists 261

For the complete list, visit http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/skilled/complete-applications.asp

Please note that the list is not a real-time tally and is meant as guide only. There are information circulating in some forums that the cap for nurses had been reached as early as mid of July 2011 and that those filed after July 15 will all be returned unprocessed. We have a couple of applications (nurses) received by CIO on July 15 that was already returned because according to the letter, the cap was already reached. We have yet to receive the assessment results for nurse applicants filed July 15 onwards. But for other occupations, those filed up to August 12, already received the assessment results.

The first published MI-3 update on the number of applications received was dated July 21 and with only a total of 26 applications from registered nurses. If the cap was indeed reached as early as July 15, it sure did not serve as a guide. It somehow mislead many applicants. We have written Minister Kenny to protest this grave injustice.

Citizenship and Immigration Canada News

Super Visas for Parent and Grandparent
Parents who wish to visit their children in Canada may now stay there for 2 years straight without applying for extended stay. This super visa is a multiple entry temporary resident visa and is valid up to 2 years.

New Language Test for Citizenship Applicants
Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney is proposing changes to to improve citizenship program. If approved, it would change the way that citizenship applicants aged 18-54 prove their language ability.

Canadian Visa Office Manila Visa - Processing Status

If you have your file number from Canadian Visa Office - Manila, you can actually check your application status online. But to give you an idea on what application date is currently being processed by Manila Visa Office, here's a breakdown based on the period applications were filed:

Pre-Feb 27, 2008 FSW Applications
Applications filed before February 27, 2008 are those filed mostly using the Simplified Application Process. Current average proceesing period for this batch is 62 months. Canadian Visa Office in Manila is currently processing applications filed November 2004. No movement for several months now. If you are under this batch and you , are you willing to join a group of fellow applicants in filing a case against Citizenship and Immigration Canada?

Ministerial Instruction 1 (MI-1)
MI-1 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from Feb 28, 2008 to June 25, 2010. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in of the 38 high demand occupations. They were originally promised 6-12 months processing period. The promised processing period materialized only during the first few months but since there's no limit on the number of applications to be received, it resulted to unanticpated backlogs. The Canadian Visa Office in Manila has now started to process those we filed November 2010.

Ministerial Instruction 2 (MI-2)
MI-2 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from June 26, 2010 to June 30, 2011. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in any of the 29 in-demand occupations and were promised 6-12 months processing period. There's a cap of 1,000 applications per occupation, and the Canadian Visa Office in Manila is current so far.

Here's where to check your application status online: https://services3.cic.gc.ca/ecas/?app=ecas&lang=en

Success Stories

French Language Test did the trick
Ms. Romina Santos is a Registered Social Worker, single, without Master's Degree and with only one year related work experience. Even if she has a relative in Canada and gets a perfect score in IELTS, she wouldn't have met the 67 points pass mark if not for the additional points from French Language.

She's now working as a Care Manager
Ms. Maria Angeles Escasa's application was filed under Ministerial Instruction 1 (MI-1) as Training Officer. She is now working as Care Manager for a nursing home.

Friends reuniting in Canada
Ms. Charina Lukban learned about our office through her friend, Ms. Ruby Calasag, who was able to get a PR Visa through Canadian Immigration Consultancy. They both applied as Registered Nurses. She will soon be joining Ms. Ruby in Canada!

Deployment Ban on Libya Still In Effect

2011-10-26T23:51:00.000+08:00

Former strongman Muammar Gaddafi has been buried and Libya's new leaders have declared the oil-rich North African state "liberated".

However, deployment ban on Libya is maintained by the Philippine Overseas Employment Agency (POEA.) The agency is awaiting the recommendation of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) regarding the security situation in Libya.

The new leadership of Libya appears united in moving the nation towards democracy. There's a great chance that the transition will be peaceful and smoother. Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) need only to wait just a little longer for the deployment ban to be lifted.

Meanwhile, recruitment agencies who are found to have deployed Filipino workers to Libya while the ban is still in effect will be administratively and criminally charged.

Filipino Caregivers Against New Immigration Law in UK

2011-10-26T10:37:00.005+08:00

Just a month ago, Filipino domestic helper in Hong Kong was in the news after winning her legal battle for permanent residency in Hong Kong. And now, Filipino caregivers in UK is protesting against the new UK Immigration Law that would disallow thousands of lowly paid migrant caregivers from settling in the UK after five years of work.

Kanlungan project staff Jamima Fagta, in an email to the Inquirer from London, said two caregivers, Lourdes Dizon Somera and Gundelina Ramirez shared their difficulties in obtaining their Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) document, which would allow them to live in the UK after five years of work.

The two explained to lawmakers how immigration rules affect them and their families, their work and the community as a whole.

Somera, who went to the UK five years ago to work and support her family and her younger siblings back home, said she was "devastated" when her application for ILR was rejected.

Read full story here.

There is quite a number of Filipino workers in UK including those with UK Student Visa.

Mining & Gas Jobs in Demand in Queensland, Australia

2011-10-20T16:33:00.001+08:00

For people currently in Queensland, Australia, mining and gas jobs just might be their ticket to a better future.

As reported by Jeremy Pierce in The Courier-Mail, thousands flocked to the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia for the first of five Mining & Gas Jobs Exposition.

Mining and gas jobs are in high demand in Australia nowadays. The allure of these kind jobs can be compared to the gold rush in the US in the past.

These jobs attract thousands of hopefuls because mining companies offer lucrative compensation. For instance, unskilled trade assistants and cooks can command a salary reaching up $ 80,000 while skilled workers could earn more than $ 110,000.

Young hopefuls see mining and gas jobs in Queensland as a chance to hit paydirt swiftly and set them up for life. Fly-in & fly-out work arrangements is another perk of these jobs.

There will be four more jobs expo following this.

Visit skills.qld.gov.au or call 1800 773 048 if you are currently in Australia and interested in getting mining and gas jobs in Queensland.

Check Out the UKBA India Facebook Page

2011-10-18T14:01:00.001+08:00

People in India who would like to visit the United Kingdom should check out the recently made UK Border Agency - India's Facebook Page.

Click the image to get to UKBA India Facebook Page

They can received updates and information about current processing times for applications, changes to UK Immigration policy and other relevant news.

They can even ask general questions there relating to visa issues, customs requirements among others.

Prove Your English or French Language Ability, New Proposal of CIC to Canada Citizenship Applicants

2011-10-17T17:41:00.002+08:00

How's your English? Comment est votre français?

Are you dreaming of becoming a Canadian citizen someday? It is best to start becoming fluent or at least be conversant in either French or English.

Applicants for citizenship are required to communicate in either of Canada's official languages. Makes sense because how can you adjust well in working or living in Canada if you couldn't understand the people around you or be understood in return?

There is a new proposal from Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) tha aims to change the way citizenship applicants prove their language ability.

How's your English? Comment est votre français?
Bilingual Signage courtesy of Dreamstime Free Photos

CIC currently uses the citizenship knowledge test as well as the applicant’s interaction with CIC staff to assess language ability. If it appears an applicant does not meet language requirements, they are invited for an interview with a citizenship judge. There can be a significant time delay between the submission of the application and the subsequent hearing for language.

The proposed new rule that applicants must provide objective evidence that they meet the language requirement when they file their application would give citizenship judges better evidence on which to base their decision. CIC would also be able to return applications of those who do not provide evidence they meet the requirements more quickly, thus improving application processing.

[... Applicants would be able to demonstrate language ability by submitting a variety of evidence, including:

the results of a third party test;evidence of completion of secondary or post-secondary education in English or French; orevidence of achieving CLB/NCLC 4 in certain government funded language training programs.]

Read more about it here.

Thankfully, the proposal does not mention increasing the language level required or increasing the number of tests or evaluation.

This proposal is already published in the Canada Gazzete. The Notice of Intent, requesting comments from the public on the proposed change, will be posted for 30 days.

Language fluency on either English or French do not only help CIC to evaluate citizenship applicants. The applicants themselves will greatly benefit in doing so.

Pardon my french but Que pensez-vous?

October 2011 Visa Bulletin - Alternatives

2011-10-12T11:23:00.000+08:00

The opportunity to apply under Federal Skilled Workers program is still limited to 29 in-demand occupations and it will remain this way until June 30, 2012. If you have signed up a consultancy agreement with Canadian Immigration Consultancy and your application was affected by changes in the immigration regulations, chances are your application is not yet filed. Some of you may have been waiting for quite a time now for your occupation to get included in the priority list. Some others may actually be included but did not make it to the cap. We understand that this may disappoint you, but it isn't necessarily the end for your dream to live and work in Canada .

Here are few things you may do as an alternative:

1. If your application is not yet filed, it is important that you continue getting your documents ready. It is best that your application is ready for filing as soon as the opportunity for your occupation opens up again. If you haven't done yet, please fill up the application forms using our client's portal (http://clients.go2canada.com) and submit your documents for checking.

2. Citizenship and Immigration Canada will still accept application for occupations not included in the list, provided the applicant has an Arranged Employment. While waiting for the next Ministerial Instruction, it would be best if you will start looking for possible employer in Canada . How to find jobs in Canada

3. The key to getting an Arranged Employment in Canada for regulated occupations is getting your credentials assessed by the regulatory body for your occupation/profession.

Nurses, for example, need to pass the Canadian Registered Nurse Examination before they could work as a nurse. The first step in getting your credentials assessed is by deciding which province in Canada you want to practice your profession. In Canada , Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Registered Nurses (RNs) and Registered Psychiatric Nurses (RPNs) are regulated by different regulatory bodies determined by each provincial government. Provincial and Territorial Regulatory Bodies - Nurses in Canada

Once you already have the eligibility to work in Canada as nurse, you can then start looking for employer in Canada . Once you have the job offer, that’s the time that we can then file your application for a Canadian Visa. Guide for Filipino Nurses planning to work in Canada.

For information on how to get your credentials recognized, visit http://www.credentials.gc.ca/recognition/how.asp

4. If you have relatives in Manitoba or Saskatchewan , we may also file your application under the Provincial Nominee Program. If you have friends in Manitoba, they are also eligible to be your sponsor under the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program.

Ministerial Instruction 3 (MI-3 Updates)
As of October 11, 2011, the Centralized Intake Office (CIO) has already 2,768 received total complete Federal Skilled Workers program applications out of the overall cap of 10,000. Under the Ministerial Instruction 3 (MI-3), there is a cap of 500 applications per occupation. The cap for Registered Nurses and Professional Occupations in Business Services to Management has been reached already. For the latest tally of applications received, visit Citizenship and Immigration Canada official website.

Applications filed to CIO from July 1-9 have already received the assessment notice. It used to take only about 30 days for CIO to make an assessment but it now takes about 3 months. If you have filed your application within the said period and haven't received the notice yet, check your email spam folder. If it's not there, you may check your application status by contacting the CIO. Here's how to check your CIO application status.

Canadian Visa Office Manila Visa - Processing Status
If you have your file number from Canadian Visa Office - Manila, you can actually check your application status online. But to give you an idea on what application date is currently being processed by Manila Visa Office, here's a breakdown based on the period applications were filed:

Pre-Feb 27, 2008 FSW Applications
Applications filed before February 27, 2008 are those filed mostly using the Simplified Application Process. Current average proceesing period for this batch is 62 months. Canadian Visa Office in Manila is currently processing applications filed November 2004.

Ministerial Instruction 1 (MI-1)
MI-1 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from Feb 28, 2008 to June 25, 2010. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in of the 38 high demand occupations. They were originally promised 6-12 months processing period. The promised processing period materialized only during the first few months but since there's no limit on the number of applications to be received, it resulted to unanticpated backlogs. The latest MI-1 applications being processed by Canadian Visa Office in Manila are those we filed October 2010.

Ministerial Instruction 2 (MI-2)
MI-2 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from June 26, 2010 to June 30, 2011. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in any of the 29 in-demand occupations and were promised 6-12 months processing period. There's a cap of 1,000 applications per occupation, and the Canadian Visa Office in Manila is current so far.

Here's how to check your application status online.

October 2011 Visa Bulletin - Alternatives

UK English Test Update

2011-10-07T09:54:00.000+08:00

English language ability is an important requirement when going apply for a visa to the United Kingdom (UK). Those wanting to work or migrate there should know and be updated with information relating to the required English language test for UK.

English Tests must be hurdled to work or live in the UK.
ETS, TOEFL & TOIEC are their respective registered trademarks.

Ammended List of Approved English language test providers for applications made under Tiers 1, 2 and 4 of the points-based system and for spouse or partner applications.

three tests awarded by Cambridge ESOL now offer certification at 3 levels of the Common European Framework rather than just 2 levels. The tests include the Cambridge English: Key, Cambridge English: Preliminary and Cambridge English: Business Preliminary
the Educational Testing Service (ETS) have updated their web address for their test of English for international communication (TOEIC) and test of English as a foreign language (TOEFL)
Pearson have updated their contact details and clarified that they do not issue paper certificates
separate certificate and notification of candidate results sheet are required for speaking part of the City and Guilds English language test

[Source]

The revised list may be downloaded at this page.

Check out the Come-to-Canada Wizard Tool

2011-10-04T22:15:00.001+08:00

Once a lady friend approached me on her chances of going to Canada. Since, I am not an immigration consultant, I referred her to another friend who actually is. And she immediately shot down my suggestion.

I'm sure there a lot of visitors of this blog that are similarly curious about their chances of going to work or live in Canada but are not yet sold to the idea of approaching an an immigration consultant.

Well, they ought to try the Come-to-Canada Wizard just like my lady friend.

This image is taken from and leads to the Come-to-Canada Wizard webpage.

The Come to Canada Wizard is a tool that presents users with a series of questions and, based on their answers, matches them with the federal immigration option that best suits their specific circumstances. It then leads them to a page that breaks down the application steps and provides instructions and forms. [Source]

However, getting approved for an issuance of a visa to work or live in Canada depends on the assessment of the immigration officer that wil be assigned to your application, in accordance with the existing Canada immigration laws and procedures. Faring well with the questionnaire of the wizard tool doesn't mean you are a shoo in. [Read Full Notice]

The wizard offers a great headstart towards achieving anyone's Canadian dream. As for me, I would like increase my chances of getting a visa to work or live in Canada by getting the services of an experienced, highy competent and more importantly authorized immigration consultant.

So, why don't you give the Come-to-Canada wizard a try?

Legal Assistance Fund for OFWs

2011-10-01T00:30:00.000+08:00

In another breath of fresh legal air, following a landmark legal triump of a Filipina Domestic Helper in Hong Kong for her permanent residency status, the Philippine government is fully restoring the legal assistance fund for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the 2012 budget.

OFWs have reason to be glad about recent legal news.
Image from Dreamstime Free Photos

What is the legal assistance fund for OFWs?

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) uses the fund to help detained OFWs by paying for lawyers, bail, “and other costs associated with going to court."

According to law, the fund should be formed by:
P50 million from the President’s contingency fund
P30 million from the Presidential Social Fund

P20 million from the trust fund of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration
It will be run by the DFA's Legal Assistant for Migrant Workers, who takes charged in “the provision and overall coordination of all legal aid services to OFWs and other Filipinos abroad." [Source]

It is high time that the Philippine government prioritize giving OFWs their due legal aid. After all, they are an integral contributor to the Philippine economy.

Evangeline Banao Vallejos: Filipina Maid's Fight for Hong Kong Permanent Residence Status

2011-09-30T13:09:00.003+08:00

In a landmark case involving a Filipina domestic helper, a Hong Kong court has ruled that a law banning foreign maids from settling permanently in the city is unconstitutional, in a landmark case for domestic helpers.

The legal action, brought by Evangeline Banao Vallejos, a Philippine domestic helper who has lived in Hong Kong since 1986, has cast a spotlight on the financial hub's treatment of its army of 292,000 domestic helpers.

"My conclusion is that on the common law interpretation approach the impugned provision is inconsistent with (Hong Kong's Basic Law)," Judge Johnson Lam wrote in a ruling issued today. [Source]

Congratulations to Evangeline Banao Vallejos. Kudos to United Filipinos in Hong Kong who supported her fight and continue to support Filipino workers in Hong Kong!

September 2011 Visa Bulletin - Merry Christmas!

2011-09-13T14:34:00.005+08:00

Filipinos celebrate Christmas longer. That's because Christmas season in the Philippines starts September 1, the start of the "ber" months. So let us be the first to greet you a Merry Christmas! And hopefully, a White Christmas soon for those who haven't experienced one yet.

Ministerail Instruction 3 (MI-3) Updates
As of this writing, we haven't received a single Assessment Notice from the Centralized Intake Office for applications filed under Ministerial Instruction 3 (MI-3). It's the 3rd month now. For some reason, it takes longer for CIO to process the assessment. They used to send the assessment notice within only a couple of months.

To check your application status, you may email FSW‑Sydney‑Search‑Enquiry@cic.gc.ca. You may contact CIO only if your application was sent at least within within the past six weeks.

As of September 6, 2011, only 90 slots remain for Registered Nurses (NOC 3152) for Federal Skilled Workers program under Ministerial Instruction 3 (MI-3). There is a great chance that the cap for nurses will be reached within this month.

The cap for NOC 1122 has been reached last August 22, 2011. Once the cap has been reached, Citizenship ang Immigration Canada will only accept applications for the affected occupation from applicant with an arranged employment.

Arranged Employment
Once the cap for your job classification has been reached, the only way to immigrate to Canada under the Federal Skilled Worker program is to wait for the new Ministerial Instruction and or find employer in Canada who is willing to hire you, an Arranged Employment. Of course, finding an employer in Canada from outside is easier said done than. But it is doable, possible and others have done it. Here's how to find jobs in Canada.

Mark Hernandez, for example is now working in Vancouver as a Registered Nurse. He found an employer though Health Match British Columbia. Health Match BC is a free health professional recruitment service funded by Government of British Columbia. If you are a health professional seeking employment, or a health care facility in British Columbia hiring qualified professionals, Health Match BC can help.

The key to finding an employer in Canada is help the employer understand the process and help solve what they perceive to be a problem. It would also help if will have your credentials assessed by the provincail regulatory body for your profession. Writing and passing the exam to practice your profession in Canada will also give you an advantage. For registered nurses who want to start the credentials assessment, check the requirements from Provincial and Territorial Regulatory Bodies for Nurses in Canada.

Provincial Nominee Program Updates

Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program now have MPNP Online Application Tool. This is only applicable for priority streams such as Employer Direct Stream, International Student Stream, Family Support Stream and Strategic Initiative Stream. MPNP General Stream will have to submit application by mail.

Success Stories

It started with a Google Search
Mrs. Reanne Medallon, a Registered Nurse, is one those who stumbled upon this blog through Google search. Her visa was issued last week together with other 54 clients.

Tale of Two Dentists
When Dr. Alvaro attended the seminar few years ago, his occupation wasn't included in the priority occupations and thus, not eligible to apply. But when his occupation was included in the Ministerial Instruction 2 (MI-2), he decided right away to file his application through our help. There's another dentist who attended the same seminar but decided to file on her own. Unfortunately, her application was refused.

Ms. Abaya Visited Niagara Falls!
Ms. Laarani Abaya, a Registered Nurse moved to Canada two months ago and is now working as a health care aide at a hospital in Toronto. She sent us her picture taken at Niagara falls when she visit the place last July 31, 2011.

Canadian Visa Office Manila Visa - Processing Status

Pre-Feb 27, 2008 FSW Applications
Applications filed before February 27, 2008 are those filed mostly using the Simplified Application Process. Current average proceesing period for this batch is 62 months. Canadian Visa Office in Manila is currently processing applications filed November 2004.

Ministerial Instruction 1 (MI-1)
MI-1 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from Feb 28, 2008 to June 25, 2010. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in of the 38 high demand occupations. They were originally promised 6-12 months processing period. The promised processing period materialized only during the first few months but since there's no limit on the number of applications to be received, it resulted to unanticpated backlogs. The latest MI-1 applications being processed by Canadian Visa Office in Manila are those we filed October 2010.

Ministerial Instruction 2 (MI-2)
MI-2 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from June 26, 2010 to June 30, 2011. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in any of the 29 in-demand occupations and were promised 6-12 months processing period. There's a cap of 1,000 applications per occupation, thus, and the Canadian Visa Office in Manila is current so far.

September 2011 Visa Bulletin - Merry Christmas!

Family Members of Temporary Foreign Workers Can Now Be Eligible to Get Employed in British Columbia CA

2011-08-15T13:17:00.004+08:00

Starting today, a pilot project is launched allowing temporary foreign workers to bring along family members and work too in British Columbia, Canada.

Read it in full here.

In a pilot project in British Columbia, Canada will be exploring the benefits of allowing family members of temporary foreign workers to also work in the province together.
Before this project, only spouses and common-law partners of temporary foreign workers employed in a managerial, professional or skilled trades job have been eligible to obtain an open work permit in British Columbia.

But through this pilot project, up to 1,800 working permits will be available for spouses, common-law partners and working-age dependants of temporary foreign workers and will be offered only until February 15, 2013.

Find more information about being a temporary foreign worker in Canada here. It is also important to take note of the New Rules of Canada's Temporary Foreign Workers Program that took effect last April 1, 2011.

Getting hired to work temporarily in Canada not only allows foreigners to earn a living for a short period of time. Being so gives them the Canadian Experience that will open more doors of opportunities.

If this pilot project proves to be successful and expanded to the entire country, skilled working families of foreigners like Filipinos stands a good chance in finding greener pastures in a developed country like Canada.

August 2011 Visa Bulletin - The Clock Is Ticking

2011-08-06T01:14:00.007+08:00

Centralized Intake Office (CIO) started to receive applications for Federal Skilled Workers (FSW) program under MI-3 since July 1, 2011. CIO will only accept a total of 10,000 applications from July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2012 with a cap of 500 applications per occupation.

As of August 4, 2011, the total complete FSW applications received by CIO is 694 already. And just like last year, it looks like Professional Occupations in Business Services to Management (NOC 1122) will be the first to reach the cap. If your occupation is included in the current list of priority occupations, let's get your application filed ASAP! Don't waste time, the clock is ticking.

Occupation not included in the list?
There are other programs to live and work in Canada - Provincial Nominee Program, Quebec-Selected Skilled Workers Program and Arranged Employment. While waiting for your occupation to be included in the priority list, try to maximize the Internet by sending your resume to Canadian employers. Here's how to find jobs in Canada.

How to Check CIO Application Status
IF your application was already filed at Centralized Intake Office (CIO) and you are wondering what the status is, there is a way to check it. But verify first with the courier service you used if it was in fact delivered to and received by CIO. You may contact CIO's Client Service Unit 6 weeks after your application is received.

Live-in Caregiver Program On Hold
There was a rumor circulating online that Canada's Live-in Caregiver Program is currently on hold. There is no truth to that. There were changes introduced in the past but the program is still open. For Filipino applicants, however, there are certain requirements you need to comply with POLO and POEA.

SCAM Alert: Cascadia Hotel and Suites Scam
The best way to fight online scams is to be informed. To legally work in Canada, you don't need to get in touch with a Zonal Coordinator for the Immigration Entry Assessment Fee.

Canadian Language Benchmark
Just to clarify, Canadian Language Benchmark 8 is not equivalent to IELTS Score of 8. The Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) are the national standard used in Canada for describing, measuring and recognizing the English language proficiency of adult immigrants and prospective immigrants for living and working in Canada.

Temporary NBI Clearance Processing Center
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is in process of migrating to a new processing system and it now takes longer to get an NBI Clearance. Expect long lines of people applying for NBI clearance so it is best if you go there really early to Temporary Processing Center. NBI Clearance is onc of the requirements for all types of PR Visa Application.

Canadian Visa Office Manila Visa - Processing Status

Pre-Feb 27, 2008 FSW Applications
Applications filed before February 27, 2008 are those filed mostly using the Simplified Application Process. Current average processing period for this batch is 62 months. Canadian Visa Office in Manila is currently processing applications filed November 2004.

Ministerial Instruction 1 (MI-1)
MI-1 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from Feb 28, 2008 to June 25, 2010. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in of the 38 high demand occupations. They were originally promised 6-12 months processing period. The promised processing period materialized only during the first few months but since there's no limit on the number of applications to be received, it resulted to unanticipated backlogs. Canadian Visa Office in Manila is now processing MI-1 applications received August-September 2010.

Ministerial Instruction 2 (MI-2)
MI-2 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from June 26, 2010 to June 30, 2011. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in any of the 29 in-demand occupations and were promised 6-12 months processing period. There's a cap of 1,000 applications per occupation, thus, and the Canadian Visa Office in Manila is current so far.

Tier 1 Latest News - UK invites the Best & the Brightest in Science, Engineering, Arts & Humanities to be Immigrants

2011-07-24T14:25:00.001+08:00

The UK Border Agency (UKBA) home office announced that the United Kingdom is opening its door to migrants who excels in the fields of Science, Engineering, Arts & Humanities.

Under the New Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) category of UK immigration rules, scientist, engineers, artists and those into Humanities will be given the chance to migrate, find work and possibly settle permanently in UK.

Image from Dreamstime Free Photos

Tier 1 (Exceptional talent) will be overseen by world-renowned 'competent bodies', which will advise the UK Border Agency on these 'exceptionally talented' migrants to ensure that they are the brightest and best in their field:
the Royal Society, a fellowship of the world's most eminent scientists, will be able to nominate up to 300 places
Arts Council England, the national development agency for the arts, will also be able to nominate up to 300 places
the Royal Academy of Engineering, Britain’s national academy for engineering, will have up to 200 places to nominate
the British Academy, the national academy for the humanities and social sciences will be able to nominate up to 200 places.
Source: UKBA

An endorsement from any of these competent bodies will be enough for exceptional migrants to enter the UK even without employer sponsorship.

This new category will open 1000 slots. The first 500 places will be offered between August 9 to November 30, 2011. 500 more places will be available from December 1, 2011 to March 31,2012. The number of slots assigned to each field may be changed depending which is more in demand.

The exceptional ones accepted under the Tier 1 Category will be granted stay for 3 years and 4 months. Afterwhich, they can apply for an extension of two years. 5 years of residence in UK make them eligible to apply for permanent residency.

This immigration policy will give exceptional minds & talents around the world not only a great chance to be in UK but more importantly to be with fellow exceptional migrants.

To exceptional Filipinos who would go to UK via Tier 1 (Exceptional Talents) category, I hope they would still remember to help their motherland.

Canada Plans to Admit 40, 000 Immigrants via Provincial Nominee Program

2011-07-20T13:36:00.005+08:00

Jason Kenney, the Minister of Citizenship, Immigration & Multiculturalism, announced Canada's plan to admit about 40,000 immigrants under Canada's Provincial Nominee Program in 2011.

Image from Dreamstime Free Photo

The press released named Manitoba, Alberta and Saskatchewan as the top three provinces for provincial nominees. Here are the relevant links to information about this 3 provinces' respective immigrant nominee programs. Remember that knowing is half the battle.

Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program

Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program for Skilled Workers

Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)

Those interested to live and work in Canada under the provincial nominee program should also explore the province of Newfoundland & Labrador which enjoys a very positive labour market outlook in the next 10 years.

Know more about Newfoundland & Labrador Provincial Nominee Program here.

Nominee programs of provinces ensure that the benefits of immigration are felt throughout Canada. Skilled immigrants often prefer go to Toronto, Montreal & Vancouver. Looking for opportunities in provinces might increase a migrant worker's chance of achieving his/her Canada dreams.

This kind of immigration program also affords the provinces to get the skilled workers they need more quickly as application under this program are processed within 12 monts on average.

Think about Canada's Provincial Nominee Program.

70,000 Jobs in Canada Province Newfoundland & Labrador Projected in the Coming Decade

2011-07-18T21:54:00.001+08:00

For those people dreaming of getting a job in Canada, you might want to have a closer eye on the province of Newfoundland & Labrador.

The province is expected to have 70, 000 job openings in the next 10 years as reported in thetelegram.com and based on the recent release of the Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Market: Outlook 2020.

Image from Dreamstime Free Photos

The government, businesses, job seekers and even students in this province and in Canada, in general, can refer to these projections in making plans for the future.

The projections revealed that hiring will peak at about 2015 with the highest need coming from utilities, health care and trade sector followed closely by manufacturing, accomodations, food service, transportation & warehousing and mining. Workers of all skill and education levels will be needed to address the employment demands of these sectors.

The decline of working age people in this province poses a great challenge to meet these future employment demands.

The priority will still be given to Newfoundland and Labrador residents. Afterwhich, other Canadian citizens or residents will be considered. And lastly, foreign workers via immigration.

Newfoundland and Labrador has an estimated population of 509,200 as of October 2010. Nine years from now, 65 years old or older is projected to comprise 45% of the province population.

Workers from within the province will not suffice to answer the 70,000 job demand projected in that time span. Migrant workers may want to have look at the labour market in Newfoundland & Labrador in Canada for better career opportunities in the future .

150,000 Jobs in Australia for Scottish Workers

2011-07-14T17:32:00.003+08:00

Around 150, 000 jobs in Australia were offered to Scots.

The Herald Scotland reported that Western Australia's Training & Workforce Development Minister, Peter Collier, was in Scotland yesterday to invite Scots to explore working in Australia where 150, 000 skilled workers are needed.

Skilled Workers are in high demand in Australia
Image courtesy of Dreamstime Free Photos

Currently, more than £130 billion worth of projects in Australia are planned. Projections revealed that Australia will be 150,000 workers short within the next five years. Such scenario will imperil a number of those projects.

The minister is trying to woo skilled and semi-skilled Scottish workers to be employed over a wide range of sectors in Australia including mining, energy, renewables, construction, electrical, engineering, health, education and training.

Aside from those workers, the minister is also targeting experts in renewable energy. However, Scotland is also in high demand of skilled workers for that sector.

Source: Herald Scotland

Well, Mr. Collier is very much welcome to look for skilled workers here in the Philippines for their renewable energy sector. A look at POEA approved job orders for Australia today revealed demands for various skilled positions already. Additional demand can certainly be met.

I hope our government can also invite Australian officials to take a closer look at the Philippine job market to address their workforce needs.

Skills, English language proficiency and world-reknowed dedication to work make OFWs ideal for jobs in Australia.

July 2011 Professional Electronics Engineering Examination Results from PRC

2011-07-13T21:06:00.001+08:00

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) has released the Professional Electronics Engineer Examination results.

11 successfully hurdled the examination given by the Board of Electronics Engineering in Manila this July 2011.

The successful examinees who can now affix the title Professional Electronics Engineer to their respective names are the following:

ANG, GLENN ALMIRANTE
BENIGRA, NICHOLAS TANGAL
CO, ARISTOTLE NGAN
DIO, ROMEO GREDONIA
DOMONDON, FEDERICO III EDUARTE
DUHAYLUNGSOD, NEIL IAN LAVADO
GADON, ARNOLD FALLAR
JURADO, GILBERT SUDARIA
PANA, ROSALIO QUIJADA
PIAMONTE, JERRY TIAD
TIMKANG, JESUS CADERA

Source: PRC Website

Electronics engineers design, plan, research, evaluate and test electronic equipment and systems.

Congratulations to these 11 new Professional Electronic Engineers!

July 2011 Visa Bulletin - Opportunity Knocks Twice, Sometimes.

2011-07-07T12:31:00.005+08:00

They say opportunity knocks only once. BUt this time, it knocked twice.

The Ministerial Instruction 3 (MI-3) has been officially issued. The 29 in-demand occupations is extended for another year but Citizenship and Immigration Canada will only accept a maximum of 500 applications per occupation with a total target of 10,000 applications for the next 12 months beginning July 1, 2011. The proposed changes to FSW Points System was not yet implemented. Thus, the ideal age remains to be between 21-49 years old. No changes whatsoever was made for the Federal Skilled Worker Program requirements and procedures.

MI-1 Applications Now Moving | Medical Notice and RPRF Payment Request

Here's a good news for applicants who filed under Ministerial Instrucrion 1 (MI-1). The Visa Office in Manila has started to process again applications filed between February 27, 2008 and June 25, 2010. The same thing is true for applications filed prior to February 27, 2008. Of the 52 Medical Instructions and Right of Permanent Resident Fee payament request we received last week, 19 cases were filed before Feb 27, 2008. These pre-Feb 27, 2008 applications were filed between November 10-25, 2004. However slow, at least it's moving.

SCAM ALERT: Canadian Employment Services Representative Office

There is no such thing as Canadian Employment Services Representative Office. So if an alleged employer requires you to seek employment clearance from Canadian Employment Services Representative Office to get a work permit, consider it a red flag. It's a scam!

Quebec-Selected Skilled Workers Program

Those whose occupations are not included in the 29 in-demand occupations are not eligible under the Federal Skilled Worker Program unless they have an Arranged Employment. While waiting for the new list next year, you may also want to try your luck under Quebec-Selected Skilled Workers Program. This program does not require employer-sponsor. There is also no restructed occupations under this program. You will have an advantage though if you have knowledge in Frenh Language and got immediate relatives in Quebec. Another alternative is to find an employer in Canada using the internet. Some of those who did what we suggested few months ago - to send resume to Canadian employers - were actually getting good result.

Time is of Essesnse

For some of the occupations listed in the priority list, they may only have 2-3 months window of opportunity. The cap may be reached sooner that what you expect. If you are eligible under the current program, let us get your application filed soon!

Saudization/NITAQAT Thoughts & Lessons

2011-07-06T00:01:00.000+08:00

I spent the better part of my afternoon reading about the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's Saudization Program or NITAQAT online.

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Coat of Arms
Image from wikipedia

NITAQAT is a major labor policy being implemented by the government of Saudi Arabia to address the large percentage of jobless young Saudis (citizens of KSA). The program compels private companies to increase the percentage of Saudis they employ, affecting all foreign workers including Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).

Under the Nitaqat, the Saudi Ministry of Labor will classify some 300,000 local companies into four categories: excellent, green (complying companies), yellow (partially complying) and red (non-complying companies), with each one required to employ a minimum number of Saudi citizens based on company size and the occupations of the company’s workers.

Yellow-coded companies will not be able to renew the work visas of foreign workers beyond six years, while red-coded companies will no longer be allowed to renew the work visas of their foreign workers.

On the other hand, excellent- and green-coded companies may recruit foreign workers who are already in Saudi from the red- and yellow-coded companies---even without the consent of the workers’ sponsors and even if the workers have not worked for at least two years under their sponsors.

Red-coded companies are given until December 11 to improve their Saudization ratios before restrictions come into effect, while yellow-coded companies have until March 11, 2012 to comply.

- Source: Interaksyon.net

The Philippine government - through DOLE & OWWA statements - are trying to allay fears on the adverse effect of the Saudization program. I am one of those who believe that it will have an effect.

There are some contentions among comment boards that the program will lead to the downfall of small and medium business in the kingdom because Saudis will demand a much higher compensation compared to foreign workers such as Filipinos.

Others are saying that the displacement of foreign workers will only be temporary as young saudis are portrayed as less skilled, less interested about the job, and are not hard workers.

The implications of this Saudization program to OFWs, their respective families and the Philippine economy affords us some important lessons.

Work Contract Overseas is not forever.
An OFW and his/her family should save money and should invest for their future.
An OFW must strive to develop his/her skill to be more employable in other countries.
The Philippine economy can not forever rely on OFW remittance for help, making it imperative for the government to make the country more suitable for small and medium enterprise to generate local jobs.
Returning OFWs can help create local jobs by starting their own businesses here.

This site hopes that most, if not all, OFWs in KSA work on companies that fall under the excellent or green categories. That employers of those OFWs working under companies under the yellow category can comply within the time period allowed. And that those unfortunate to work for companies under the red category, can get absorbed by complying companies.

Otherwise, Saudization/Nitaqat affected OFWs would have no choice but return to the Philippines and compete with other hard-luck OFWs and jobless Filipinos for local jobs like this DOLE list.

Here a good article about Saudization/Nitaqat.

Banned in Saudi? Filipino Household Workers Needed in Kuwait

2011-07-02T17:04:00.003+08:00

Filipino household workers or domestic helpers wanting to work abroad in that capacity must set their eyes to other countries like Kuwait beginning today.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will no longer issue work visas to Filipino domestic workers starting July 2, 2011.

Based on my look up at the POEA approved jobs database, there is a great demand for household service workers in Kuwait. Most notable among the list of approved job orders for this position are:

100 Household Service Workers - Sheeba International Manpower Services Inc.
200 Household Service Workers - Non-Stop Overseas Employment Corp

See the list that I saw here.

These job orders were taken from the POEA website on the day indicated.
Please verify with the agency if the job orders are still active or not.
Beware of illegal recruiters. Read about illegal recruitment here.
Report to the POEA anything that may involve illegal recruitment immediately.

Saudi Arabia's decision is a blow to Filipino household workers wanting to work abroad. The government and the recruitment agencies must look for measures to counter the effects of this banning.

In that regard, this site hope to help by posting about other destinations for domestic workers or household service workers such as Kuwait. [Cyprus & Qatar may also be considered alternative destination.]

Updated Federal Skilled Workers Program

2011-07-01T21:01:00.002+08:00

Starting today, July 1, 2011 the slight but impactful changes to Canada's Federal Skilled Workers Immigration program will be implemented.

The reduction of the number of applications to be considered plus the cap set for each of the 29 priority occupations would be tough to applicants. But at least, the list weren't trimmed down further. There was a time the high demand jobs to migrate to Canada under the same program stood at 38.

It also important to note which occupations reached the cap limit under the previous set of requirements. They were:

0631 Restaurant and Food Service Managers
1122 Professional Occupations in Business Services to Management
2121 Biologists and Related Scientists
2151 Architects
3111 Specialist Physicians
3112 General Practitioners and Family Physicians
3113 Dentists
3131 Pharmacists
3152 Registered Nurses

It is best to act fast to be eligible and be able to submit their applications as soon as possible especially those falling under the 9 occupations listed above.

Remember that to be eligible:

one must have at least one continuous year of full-time, paid work experience or the equivalent in part-time continuous employment. The experience must be within the last ten (10) years.
one need to submit the results of his/her language proficiency test
pass the 6 selection criteria points system

Notes:

This does not apply to applicants intending to live in the province of Quebec.
The set limits to the number of applications & cap to each occupations do not apply to applications with an offer of arranged employment.

I am not an immigration consultant. It would be best to consult only with those authorized ones, avoiding crooked immigration consultants when applying to migrate to Canada. I personally know a very experienced and authorized one who offers free assessment. Check him out here.

Is your Immigration Consultant Authorized? Canada Immigration Going After Crooked Immigration Consultants

2011-06-29T10:48:00.001+08:00

Crooked immigration consultants days are numbered or, at the very least, will be tougher.

Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is going after shady and unacceptable practices of immigration consultants that will protect applicants from immigration fraud and boost confidence in the integrity of Canada's immigration program.

Crooked immigration consultants may take advantage of the changes in the Canada immigration program - limiting the number of application to be accepted from certain categories of federal economic immigration stream - and lure many applicants.

Part of this initiative is naming of Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC) as the new regulatory body to oversee immigration consultants, taking over from the Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants (CSIC). Members of CSIC can start to register with ICCRC on June 30, 2011. Transition to ICCRC from CSIC ends on October 28, 2011.

Immigration consultants or representatives are authorized to offer paid professional service if they are a member of good standing with ICCRC, provincial/territorial law society, including paralegals or members of Chambre des notaires du Québec.

CIC and the ICCRC will implement Bill C-35 to weed out crooked immigration consultants.

Bill C-35 [Act to Amend the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act]

makes it an offence for anyone other than an authorized representative to conduct business, for a fee or other consideration, at any stage of an application or proceeding. This includes the period before a proceeding begins or an application is submitted and means that anyone who provides paid immigration advice at the pre-application stage will need to be an authorized representative, as identified in section 91 of the Act.

Unpaid third parties, such as family members and friends, can still act on behalf of an applicant.

Know more about Bill C-35 here.

It is one's right to seek a better way of life for one's self and his/her family like migrating to a country like Canada. Hiring and paying for an immigration consultant can facilitate one's immigration application.

But not all immmigration consultants can help an applicant. Getting the help of unauthorized or incompetent consultant can delay the application, cost unnecessary fees or worse get the application denied.

By seeking professional advice only from legally authorized immigration consultants, applicants stand to have a better chance of migrating to Canada, realizing their dream for a better life.

At the same, doing so lessens the opportunity of crooked immigration consultants to victimize migrant-hopefuls. To me, it is a contribution in itself to curtailing immigration fraud and human trafficking.

Here's an authorized and experienced Canada Immigration Consultant.

Changes on Canada Immigration Policies

2011-06-27T20:19:00.002+08:00

Canada announced changes to its immigration policies. Basically, a reduce intake of immigration applications.

Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is limiting the number of new applications it will consider in certain categories of the federal economic immigration stream. Effective July 1, 2011, the changes will affect new applicants to the federal Skilled Worker, federal Immigrant Investor and federal Entrepreneur programs.

Read the entire CIC News Release about these changes here.

Federal skilled workers applications will be limited to 10, 000 a year. And within that limit, a maximum of only 500 new applications in each of the 29 priority/high demand occupations will be considered starting July 1, 2011.

In addition, a cap of 700 on new federal investor applications and a temporary moratorium on new federal entrepreneur applications will be introduced.

The 500 new application limit does not augur well for new applicants. I would advise them to seek the help of authorized immigration consultants immediately to explore their opportunities in migrating and working in Canada.

For those with pending applications, it is hoped that with these changes on Canada Immigration Policies, their applications can finally move forward.

Plumbing Jobs in High Demand in the Middle East

2011-06-21T17:36:00.000+08:00

Plumbing jobs are in high demand in the Middle East particularly in Saudi Arabia.

I went to the POEA website today and found out that there quite a lot of approved job orders for plumbers for Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries such as Kuwait, Qatar and UAE.

A Plumber busy with one of those plumbing jobs.

Plumbers install, repair and maintain pipes, fixtures and other plumbing equipment used for water distribution and waste water disposal in residential, commercial and industrial buildings.

That isn't just for this month alone. By my count, approved job orders for Plumbers were:

January 2011 - 129
February 2011 - 210
March 2011 - 309
April 2011 - 291
May 2011 - 307
June 2011 - 106 (June 15 the latest date)

You can view the approved job orders for plumbers in June, here. Or you can check them out yourself at the POEA website.

And that is not counting those job orders tagged as "Open". There are other countries that need plumbers as well but the bulk of the approved job orders are for deployment in the Middle East.

The recent discussion between labor officials of the Philippines and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia about refroms in the Saudi labor system augurs well for those Filipino plumbers hoping to use their skill there and earn enough for their families here.

The reforms discussed were:

The recognition of “intermediary hiring firms" that will serve as sponsors and co-employers of workers and who will be responsible for the OFWs' welfare and protection;
A mandatory, broad-range insurance for OFWs; the premium will be paid by employers;
A new remittance scheme for OFWs; and
The expansion of e-government facilities, an associated wage protection system, and better enforcement of existing regulations, including the establishment of 24/7 hotlines to receive workers’ complaints in various languages, including Tagalog.

Plumbing is skill that Filipinos are good at. Here's hoping that these plumbing jobs in the Middle East will help many Filipino plumbers showcase their competence in this trade skill and help their families in the process.

June 20 Special Non-Working Day Pay Rule

2011-06-20T20:12:00.000+08:00

Today, June 20, 2011, is a special non-working day by virtue of Proclamation 154, emphasizin the special national and historical importance of the 150th birth anniversary of the Philippine's national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal.

As such, private companies and employers must observe the appropriate pay rules for special non-working days set by the Deparment of Labor and Employment , such as today.

If Monday, June 20, 2011 is worked, an employee is entitled to 130 percent of his daily rate for the first eight hours, and to an additional 30 percent of his hourly rate on the said day for work performed in excess of eight hours.

If unworked, the worker or employee is not entitled to any payment, unless there is a favorable company policy, practice or collective bargaining agreement (CBA) granting payment for special days even if not worked;

If worked and it falls on the employee's rest day, the employee or worker is entitled for the first eight hours to 150 percent of his or her regular daily rate, and for work performed in excess of 8 hours, plus 30 percent of his or her hourly rate on the said day.

Any question or feedback? Call the DOLE Call Center at Hotline 2917 from your Globe or TM mobile phones, 908-2917 from your fixed-line phones for free, or text (SMS) at 2910; you may also inquire from the nearest DOLE regional office in your regions (400-6242 for the DOLE-National Capital Region (NCR office), or call or visit the Bureau of Working Conditions (BWC) located at 3/F, DOLE Building, Muralla Street cor. General Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila, tel. no. 527-3000, local 301.

From the Department of Labor & Employment (DOLE) advisory.

NBI Clearance & Renewal Card, Do You Already Have Both?

2011-06-18T10:24:00.000+08:00

The NBI Clearance is a major documentary requirement for Filipinos, almost a mandatory requirement for employment and serves a host of other purposes. New grads or those just entering the workforce will almost certainly be required to get one while veteran workers may be required to renew from time to time.

A Sample of an NBI Clearance Certificate
Image from Tom's Blog

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has long been offering a faster means of renewing one's NBI clearance via the NBI Clearance Renewal Card.

The Back Portion of an NBI Clearance Renewal Card
Image from John's Blog

Companies or employers require an NBI Clearance as prospective employee's proof that he/she has no legal/criminal liability. The NBI issues a clearance certificate if the applicant has no record on file (also referred to as nbi clearance hit) with them.

I recently applied for a new NBI clearance. The NBI Clearance Center is currently at the Victory Central Mall in Caloocan City.

New applicants are required to present two valid IDs ( PRC ID, SSS ID, TIN ID, School ID, Company ID etc). I just brought my NSO-Certified Birth Certificate. Those for renewal just need to present their old NBI Clearance certificates.

Here are the steps for New Applicants in obtaining an NBI Clearance that I recently undertook.

Get an application form. You will be asked for IDs. Fill out the required information. A Birth certificate comes handy as the birthplace of parents are needed info to fill out the form.

After which, you need to have your application form verified at the Data Check counters.

Next step is paying the clearance fee of Php 115.00. Bringing a Php 100 peso bill plus three 5-peso coins can facilitate your payment. There are automated machines inside the center accepting exact payment. As much as possible, avoid going there during lunch break as there will only be a few cashiers who will man the payment counters, translating to longer lines. An official receipt will be given after payment.

Next step is Finger Printing. It would be wise to bring tissue paper to clean the ink off your fingers as the Php 2.oo wet tissue being sold won't be enough to wipe off the ink completely.

Then, your image will be captured.

You will then proceed to Data Entry and where I believe the record verification process is done. If you have no namesake and no nbi clearance hit, your NBI Clearance certificate will be released on the same date. [Otherwise, getting your clearance will take longer and you will be required to return.]

You just need to present your official receipt at the next step, wait for your clearance certificate to be printed and you're done.

Your NBI clearance is valid one year from the date of issue. You will be issued two copies, one that you can give to your prospective employer and another for your personal copy that you will use for renewal.

However it would be wise to get an NBI renewal card. It costs an additional Php 120.00 but it promises an easier way to renew your NBI clearance from then on. And you get to keep another official government ID card.

For renewal, NBI clearance renewal machines (also available in selected malls) will only require you to swipe the NBI card, pay the exact fee, wait for your clearance print out and off you go.

Getting the renewal card should only take a few minutes longer. Your picture will be taken again together with your right thumb print and the card will be printed immediately.

For more information about NBI clearance, go visit the following links:
http://www.nbi.gov.ph/faq.htm
http://www.nbi.gov.ph/clearance1.htm

Or call the NBI Clearance Center via telephone numbers 351-4149 and 351-0619.

NBI Clearance Center
Victory Central Mall
#717 Old Victory Liner Cmpd. Rizal Ave.

We hope that jobseekers can complete all the documentary requirements as easily as possible including an NBI Clearance and an NBI Clearance Renewal Card.

OFW Deployment to Bahrain Resumes

2011-06-17T11:52:00.000+08:00

The State of National Safety in the Kingdom of Bahrain was lifted on June 1, 2011 and the DFA consequently downgraded the security classification from Alert Level 2 to Alert Level 1.

Here's hoping that the recent resumption of deployment processing for Bahrain-bound OFWs at the POEA will become permanent.

Also, OFWs should be aware of DFA Alert Level Guidelines and check to see if their destination countries fall on any of the alert level.

This site prays for the safety of all OFWs and encourages them to heed the government's authority involving deployment ban and repatriation from countries experiencing strife.

Your Next Job Might Be From Either of These Job Fairs

2011-06-12T22:17:00.000+08:00

Two job fairs on the same dates and relatively near locations. That ought to be good news for us, Filipino jobseekers, who intend to make the most of our time and money to land our next job and proceed with our respective careers.

I was aboard the MRT and as I passed by Megamall, I noticed big notice about a job fair. Searching online led me to these two job fairs that will be held simultaneously.

5th North Triangle Career Fair 2011
June 14-15, 2011
10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Trinoma Activity Center
Trinoma Mall
Quezon City

Philippine Star Career Guide Job Fair
June 14-15, 2011
10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Megatrade Hall
5th Floor Megamall B
Megamall, Mandaluyong City

Source

Trinoma is closer to my residence so I intend to go there first and then proceed to Megamall. Well, you might be standing in line with me then.

Good luck to all jobseekers!

June 2011 Visa Bulletin - Delay in Processing Explained

2011-06-05T16:08:00.001+08:00

The 3rd Ministerial Instruction (MI-3) is expected to be issued anytime now, on or before July 1, 2011. Considering the application backlogs, the upcoming Immigration Minister's Instruction would be crucial. It may worsen the backlogs or limit the opportunities for those planning to live and work in Canada. The next Ministerial Instruction may provide the new list of priority occupations, the number of applications to received and quite possibly, changes in the points system

Alternative Programs
If Citizenship and Immigration Canada decided to focus on their backlogs, there is a chance that there would be a fewer occupations to be listed as priority and fewer number of applications to be received for the next twelve months starting July 1, 2011. Should that be the case, that would mean the cap would be reached instantly. This is where you need to seriously consider finding an employer in Canada who might be willing to sponsor your application. Start preparing a Canadian resume format, prepare a good cover letter and find job vacancies through Canada Jobs Portal. With a job offer from Canada, you may apply under Provincial Nominee Program or Federal Skilled Worker program with Arranged Employment Opinion (AEO).

Delay in processing
Based on the recent processing times published at Citizenship and Immigration Canada website, it now takes 75 months for them to process applications filed on or before February 27, 2008 at Canadian Visa Office in Manila. It used to be 36 months. The Visa Office in Manila is yet to finish applications filed in 2004.

For applications filed between November 2008 and June 25, 2010, it now takes 12 months. It used to be 6-12 months.

Citizenship and Immigration Canada is prioritizing applicants filed under Ministerial Instruction 2 (MI-2) because it seeks to respond to the most urgent labor market needs first. That explains the delay in processing, why nurses filed under MI-2 are getting results faster than some nurses filed under MI-1 even if their applications were filed several months earlier.

Illogical Approach, Let's Make a Protest!
Citizenship and Immigration Canada's decision to prioritize applicant's filed under MI-2 does not make sense. It is illogical and unfair. Nurses and physicians are both included in the priority list under MI-1 and MI-2. Are they trying to say that nurses and physicians filed under MI-2 best respond to labor market demand? What's their basis?

If you are one of those affected, you have two options. You may either wait until your application is reviewed (12 months from the time the visa office received your application) or write a letter to the visa office and voice out your protest. You have all the right to write them a letter but avoid multiple and redundant follow up. I strongly suggest you do the latter. Otherwise, be prepared to wait longer if there are nurses and physicians again included in the Ministerial Instruction 3. Who do you think would be prioritized following their logic? We have already wrote them a letter, you can do the same.

Free Canadian Visa Internet Scam Alert
Please do not be deceived by scammers who promise free Canadian visa processing. Recently, many applicants have been receiving an email allegedly from no-reply@cic.gc.ca offering a free and guaranteed Canadian visa processing. Citizenship and Immigration Canada warned the public about it. It is a scam!

Are You a Filipino Wanting to Work Abroad? Check out 76 OFW Friendly Countries identified by POEA

2011-05-25T20:48:00.000+08:00

If you are one of the many Filipinos dreaming of gaining a highly compensated employment overseas, the Philippine Overseas and Employment Administration (POEA) listed 76 destinations that it considers "OFW friendly".

GMAnews.tv reported that POEA has identified the following 76 nations to be OFW friendly.

Albania
Angola
Argentina
Australia
ustria
Azerbaijan
Belgium
Belize
Bolivia
Bosnia-Herzegovina
Brazil
Brunei
Canada
Chile
Columbia
Costa Rica
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Ecuador
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Guam

Guatemala
Guyana
Hong Kong
Hungary
Indonesia
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Jamaica
Japan
Kenya
Laos
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxemburg
Macau
Malaysia
Maldives
Marshall Islands
Mexico
Myanmar
Namibia
New Zealand
Northern Marianas
Oman

Palau
Paraguay
Peru
Poland
Portugal
Romania
Russian Federation
San Marino
Slovak Republic
Slovenia
South Africa
South Korea
Spain
Sri Lanka
Suriname
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan
The Netherlands
Turkey
UK
USA
Uruguay
Venezuela
Vietnam

POEA named these nations based on three requirements provided for in RA 10022 (the amended Migrant Workers Act). Section 3 of RA 10022 that the Philippines will allow deployment if the host country:

Has existing labor and social laws protecting the rights of workers;
Is a signatory to and/or a ratifier of multilateral conventions, declarations or resolutions relating to the protection of workers; and
Has concluded a bilateral agreement or arrangement with the government on the protection of the rights of OFWs.

The list does not contain the more known OFW deployment destinations such as Saudi Arabia, UAE(Dubai) and our southeast Asian neighbor, Singapore. Exclusion from the list does not mean banning of deployment.

Also, a number of countries from this list, can not be found in POEA's database list of countries with approved job orders. The POEA needs to work on updating them.

For me the list signifies that OFWs are a recognized workforce worldwide. I guess POEA just wanted to point out that there other countries beside the Middle East nations where a lot of tensions are going on at present.

OFWs should consider peace and stability when choosing a country to work for. And this list of 76 OFW friendly countries can serve as reference for them.

Do's and Dont's in UAE for OFWs

2011-05-21T14:49:00.000+08:00

Overseas Filipino workers in Dubai or UAE should conform to the prevailing customs and laws of the emirates.

Among the do’s and don’ts in the UAE are:

Bathing suits are OK only in hotel pools and private beaches
Men are also expected to dress decently with no bold overtones
Absolutely no cross-dressing
Holding hands and kissing are unacceptable and can lead to arrest
During Ramadan, the Muslim fasting month, people are expected to abstain from alcohol, dancing, chewing gum, smoking and singing in public during the day
Eat/drink with your right hand as the left hand is considered to be unhygienic in this part of the world
Don’t show the soles of your feet or shoes as this implies disrespect to others — that you are comparing the person to soles or ‘dirt’/’trash’
If a Muslim is praying, do not walk in front of him or stare at him
If you have not accepted Islam as your religion, take prior permission before entering a mosque
Do not point fingers at others as this is considered disrespectful
Taxi passengers should avoid sitting in the front seat of a taxicab; “small talk" can be misinterpreted as over-friendliness or even a form of propositioning by taxi drivers
Prescription and over-the-counter medications are often considered illegal or a controlled substance
Keep your medicines in their original containers and bring a letter from your doctor as well as a copy of your prescription with you
Possession of illegal drugs, or the presence of an illegal substance in a blood or urine test, clothing, body, or in your luggage, could lead to arrest
Don’t drink and drive; Alcohol is served at bars in major hotels but is intended for hotel guests
Drinking or possession of alcohol without a Ministry of Interior liquor permit is illegal and may lead to fines and imprisonment
Avoid making obscene hand gestures, using inappropriate (foul) language to a police officer

Source: GMAnews.tv

First time OFWs in UAE can learn more of the do's and don'ts with the planned released of a handbook. A 50-page passport size handbook has been prepared by Filcom, a community group in Dubai and the northern emirates. This bilinggual(English & Filipino) handbook will serve as a guide for Filipinos should behave while in UAE. 10, 000 copies of this handbook will be printed and will be distributed on June 10,2011.

May 2011 Civil Engineering Licensure Examination Results

2011-05-19T14:22:00.000+08:00

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) has already released the May 2011 Civil Engineering Licensure Examinations Results wherein 1,195 out of 3,117 examinees passed the Civil Engineer Licensure Examination given by the Board of Civil Engineering in the cities of Manila, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo and Legazpi this May 2011.

Read more about the release of exam results by PRC here.

Find the top 10 newly licensed civil engineers of this batch of passers here. You can check out the names of your relatives and friends who took the exam if they passed with this complete list of the May 2011 Civil Engineering Licensure Examination results.

As newly licensed civil engineers, I congratulate and wish them good luck and I hope that they give their best in designing and constructing a better world to live in.

Filipino Seafarers Can Look for Better Days

2011-05-15T17:28:00.000+08:00

The future looks bright for Filipino seafarers because of initiatives that could increase the wage they will get and upgrade their professional skills.

The minimum wage of seafarers stand to get an increase as the International Labor Organization saw its necessity.

An international agreement has been reached on an increase in the ILO Minimum Basic Wage for seafarers at a meeting of the Joint Maritime Commission Sub-Committee on Wages of Seafarers in Geneva on 26-27 April.

The current ILO minimum basic wage for an AB covering 48 hours of work will increase from US$545 to $555 on 1 January 2012, to $568 on 1 January 2013 and eventually to $585 on 31 December 2013.

- from Nautilus International

Filipino seafarers have already established a solid reputation in maritime service in terms of competence, professionalism and dedication. International shipping companies who would prefer Filipino seamen are expected to adhere to internationally accepted laws and standards governing the industry.

On the local front, the government appear serious in supporting our seafaring industry.

National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Director-General Cayetano W. Paderanga Jr. has announced that the national government is committed in further developing the professional skills of Filipino seafarers.

He said this is being done by investing in world-class training modules and facilities which are vital to improving the expertise of the country’s mariners.

- from Positive News Media

One of the current problems faced by local seafarers is the serious issue of piracy in Somalia.

Among the measures undertaken by the government is to make arrangements with ship principals and manning agencies for vesselto travelalong a safety corridor and to adopt best management practicess as a deterrence to piracy attacks.

The Philippine government has likewise taken up the issue of maritime safety and security in the Gulf of Aden and in the Indian Ocean before the United Nations and other international organizations.

Also, the UN Security Council continues with its Anti-piracy campaign specifically against armed-robbery at sea off the coast of Somalia.

These things make me feel that Filipino Seafarers can look ahead to better days in the near future.

May 2011 Visa Bulletin - 3rd Ministerial Instruction Coming Soon

2011-05-12T05:15:00.000+08:00

Within a couple of months from now, the new list of priority occupations would be made available. Are you now ready to file your application? Remember that under the current policy, Citizenship and Immigration Canada is imposing a cap on the number of applications to be accepted per occupation. Here's what you should do, if you haven't done yet:

1. Schedule your IELTS examination before June 30, 2011. Remember that IELTS Exam Result is needed to file your application and it takes about a couple of weeks to get the result after the examination.

2. Fill up the application forms. You can do this online by logging on to http://clients.go2canada.com. If you signed up a consultancy agreement with us, you should have your username and password by now. Check your spam folder in case you did not receive it.

3. Get your documents ready. Here's the list of requirements

If your occupation is in the current list of 29 in-demand occupations, you only have until June 30, 2011 to send your application to Centralized Intake Office (CIO). There is no guarantee that your occupation would still be included in the new list.

Canadian Election Results
The results of the recently concluded Canadian Federal Election paved the way to a majority Conservative government. Stephen Harper will remain the Prime Minister and no election will be conducted in the next for years. What's in it for Canada's Immigration Program?

1. This would mean the Immigration Minister would still have the power to decide on who will be prioritized under the Federal Skilled Worker program. The fate of Canada's immigration program will depend on the next Ministerial Instructions. It is expected that on or before July 1, 2011, the 3rd Ministerial Instruction will be issued. It will determine the priority occupations and how many applications will be accepted for the next twelve months. It will also state the mandated processing period for the new applications. But we all know by now that there's a terrible delay in visa processing for applications filed under the 1st Minieterial Instruction.

2. This could also mean that the proposed changes in FSW points system would be implemented soon.

Manitoba Strategic Initiative
So you took the IELTS Exam but your occupation was not included in the new list, what now?

If your occupation is not in the list, you may still be eligible to apply under the Federal Skilled Worker program if have an Arranged Employment in Canada. You may also be eligible under Provincial Nominee Program if somebody (employer, relatives, friends) is willing to sponsor you.

Another alternative iss the Manitoba Strategic Initiative. It's a bit costly but under this program, you don't need an employer or a relative to sponsor you. All you need is to have an exploratory visit to Maniba and get interviewd by MPNP Office. If you passed the interview, you will be invited by Manitoba PNP Office to apply under the program with priority processing. IELTS Exam is also required under this program.

1,ooo cap for Restaurant Managers has been reached
As of April 19, 2011, the 1,000 cap for Restaurant Managers has been reached already. No new applications under this job classification until June 30, 2011. Will Restaurant Managers be included in the new list of priority occupations? We don't know that yet.

Visa Processing Status Monitor
The Canadian Visa Office in Manila is yet to finish applications filed in 2004, currently processing Nov 2004 applicants. This is for applications filed before February 2008.

For those who filed between February 2008 to June 2010 under the first Ministerial Instruction and are still waiting for the notice from the Canadian Visa Office Manila, your patience is needed. It looks like the Canadian Visa Office in Manila is yet to cope up with the backlogs. There's no cap on the number of applications to be received under the first Ministerial Instruction. It was only implemented starting June 26, 2010. They may have received a huge volume of applications and that may explain the backlogs. Please avoid sending unnecessary and repetitive follow up to Visa Office, it will just make the situation worst. But you can always check your application status online.

May 2011 Visa Bulletin - 3rd Ministerial Instruction Coming Soon

A Hotel Job in Macau for You, but wait....

2011-05-11T16:00:00.000+08:00

When someone approaches you and offers a position for hotel jobs in Macau, do not quickly daydream about earning a good salary and generous tips from clients inside a luxurious casino hotel. At least not yet.

Ensure first that the hotel job in Macau is legitimate and that it is being offered by a person authorized by the hotel company.

Macau at Night
Image from flickr by Allan Siew

The Galaxy Entertainment Group (GEG), a leading developer and operator of integrated entertainment and resort facilities who operates a casino hotel in Macau, informed the Philippine Consulate about cases of recruitment fraud. Illegal recruiters pretending to be appointed agents of the said hotel and casino chain operator are promising hotel jobs to OFWs.

The only authorized recruitment agency by GEG in the Philippines is IKON Solutions Asia, Inc. Job offers made under the name of GEG should go through IKON. Otherwise, you have been duped by an illegal recruiter.

Here are the contact details of IKON Solutions Asia, Inc.

Makati Office
7th Floor Athenaeum Building
160 LP Leviste Street, Salcedo Village
Makati City, Philippines 1227

Tel: +632 840 3252
Fax: +632 840 5829
E-mail
(Employers): contact@ikonlink.com
(Jobseekers): jobs@ikonlink.com

Cebu Office
2nd Floor, RKD Building,
A.S. Fortuna Street, Banilad Mandaue City,
Cebu, Philippines 60147

Tel/Fax: +6332 505 6429
E-mail: ikoncebu@ikonlink.com
Branch Office Authority No.:
0-13-046 (LB) 001B

I found these contact details from ikonlink.com. Any one offered a hotel job in Macau in behalf of Galaxy Entertainment Group should verify with IKON if the job opportunity is legit, authorized and still open.

Overseas Filipino Workers, especially those just starting to be one, should be discerning and very vigilant against illegal recruiters. An extra diligence in knowing more about the position, the company you will work for and the recruitment agency will help protect you from being a victim.

*** Reported on gmanews.tv

Search Engineering Jobs at Google

2011-05-10T10:14:00.000+08:00

Search Engineering jobs in Google is probably a dream job to most technologically inclined job seekers.

For someone like me, trying my best to come up with an informative and relevant content here and in other blogs and have that content get picked up by search engines - specifically Google - it is a great dream to work on the other side. It certainly is a blast to contribute and help internet searchers find the information they looking for. And for the fun of it, giving those who aim to work the system and cheat the algorithm a hell of a time.

Here's a video of personnel working on Google Search.

Only a few would scoff at all those positives enumerated by these personnel. Admittedly, working for this techonology and internet giant, is a dream job for most job seekers.

So, if you think you are qualified and can handle search engineering jobs at Google, give them a visit here.

289 Technical Assistant Jobs in Taiwan

2011-05-07T19:19:00.000+08:00

Under the Special Hiring Program for Taiwan (SHPT) classification, INOTERA MEMORIES INC. in Taiwan is in urgent need for 289 Technical Assistants. For the first batch, the company will hire 120 - 50 male and 70 female - applicants.

This job vacancy is seen at the POEA website and posted here to inform more Filipinos looking for overseas jobs in Taiwan.

QUALIFICATIONS:
Male Applicants

College graduate major in engineering, preferably mechanical and electrical background
25 - 35 years old
Height: 155 - 175 cm, Weight: 55 - 88 kg
Salary: NT$ 17,880/month
Job Description: Maintenance and repair of wafer machine

Female Applicant

College graduate (4 Year Course)
20 - 35 years old
Height: 150 cm, Weight: 40 kg above
Salary: NT$ 17,880/month
Job Description: Operate machine and move materials of semiconductor

Additional information:

1. Former INOTERA workers will be given priority by the employer.
2. Age limitation does not apply to those who previously worked at INOTERA
3. College level could be considered if they have work experience related to motor and machinery and with experience in semi-conductors.

Qualified applicants may personally submit a detailed resume with job description, school credentials, employment certificates, passport copy and two (2) pieces 2x2 recent picture at;

Manpower Rgistery Division
Window M Ground floor
Blas F. Ople Building (Formerly POEA Bldg.)
Ortigas Avenue corner EDSA
Mandaluyong City

Or they may register online at www.poea.gov.ph / www.eregister.poea.gov.ph

Submission is extended up to May 20, 2011.

Paramedics And Ambulance Attendants [NOC 3234]

2011-05-06T17:23:00.000+08:00

Paramedics and Ambulance Attendants are group of workers who administer pre-hospital emergency medical care to patients with injuries or medical illnesses and transport them to hospitals or other medical facilities for further medical care.

Talking about paramedics, Peter Petrelli comes to mind. He is a major character in the successful TV series, Heroes. Aside from having extraordinary powers, he is a paramedic in that show. In the opening episode of its final season, Peter was using his powers in his paramedic duties, abling him to save so many lives.

Other than in that show, Paramedics and Ambulance attendants are not a glamorous job. Emergency services are on call 24/7 so they have irregular working hours. And every situation is almost always a matter of life and death.

Paramedics & Ambulance Attendants in Action
Image from ambulancevisibility.com

Paramedics and Ambulance Attendants perform some or all of the following duties:

Assess extent of injuries or medical illnesses of trauma victims, patients with respiratory disease and stress, overdose and poisoning victims, industrial accident victims and other ill or injured individuals to determine emergency medical treatment
Administer pre-hospital emergency care, such as oxygen therapy, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), spinal immobilization, bandaging and splinting, to patients
Establish and maintain intravenous treatment (IV), apply adjunctive equipment for ventilation and circulation complications, administer medications and provide other advanced emergency treatment to patients
Transport patients by air, land or water to hospital or other medical facility for further medical care
Document and record nature of injuries and illnesses and treatment provided
Assist hospital personnel with provision of medical treatment, if necessary
Maintain ambulances and emergency care equipment and supplies
May train and supervise other workers in this unit group
May assist with triage of emergency patients.

Paramedics and Ambulance Attendants may also be called by any of the following titles;

advanced care paramedic
advanced emergency medical assistant
advanced life support attendant
advanced life support co-ordinator
advanced life support paramedic
ambulance attendant
ambulance attendant trainee
ambulance attendants supervisor
ambulance driver
ambulance driver-attendant
ambulance services field supervisor
ambulance services supervisor
ambulance services unit chief
ambulance technician
assistant paramedic
assistant, emergency medical care
attendant, advanced life support
attendant, ambulance
attendant, first aid – paramedical
attendant, infant transport
chief ambulance attendant
critical care paramedic
drilling rig medic
drilling rig medical technician
drilling rig medical warden
drilling rig medical worker
driver, ambulance
EMA (emergency medical attendant)
EMCA (emergency medical care attendant)
emergency medical assistant
emergency medical attendant (EMA)
emergency medical care assistant
emergency medical care attendant (EMCA)
emergency medical care technician, newborns
emergency medical responder
emergency medical technician (EMT)
emergency medical technician, paramedic (EMT – P)
emergency medical technologist, paramedic
emergency paramedic
EMT – P (emergency medical technician paramedic)
EMT (emergency medical technician)
field supervisor, ambulance services
first aid attendant – paramedical
infant transport attendant
intermediate care paramedic
medic, drilling rig
medical assistant (paramedic) – military
medical care technician, newborns
medical technician
medical technician, drilling rig
medical warden, drilling rig
newborn emergency medical care technician
newborn medical care technician
paramedic
paramedic worker
primary care paramedic
registered emergency medical aid
registered emergency paramedic
search and rescue technician – military
supervisor ambulance attendants
supervisor, ambulance services
technician, ambulance
unit chief, ambulance services

More Job Fairs for Filipinos

2011-05-05T12:53:00.000+08:00

As I am currently doing my own job search, I came across an ad about another job fair that Filipino jobseekers like me can attend to look for employment opportunities.

Job FEST & Career FAIR 2011

May 9 & 10, 2011
10 AM to 6 PM
Glorietta Activity Center
Ayala Center, Makati City

List of Exhibitors for this job fair, include, among others:

ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corp.
Accenture, Inc.
ACME BPO
Aegis Peoplesupport
Ascend Worldwide Marketing Solutions, Inc.
Diversified Technology Solutions International, Inc.
Eperformax Contact Centers Corp.
IBM Daksh Business Process Services, Inc.
Interglobe Technologies Phils., Inc.
Jobstreet.com
Marie France Group of Companies
Microsourcing Philippines, Inc.
Stream Global Services
Sykes Asia
Teletech Customer Care Management
Ten Knots Development Corporation/El Nido Resorts

For more info, check out the website of the organizer of this job fair. Proceed to www.primetradeasia.com or e-mail them at info(at)primetradeasia.com .

I haven't experienced being hired on the spot in any job fairs I attended. But I did get my share of interview schedules out of them.

How about you? Can you share your experiences in attending job fairs?

Nurse Aides, Orderlies & Patient Service Associates [NOC 3413]

2011-05-02T01:16:00.000+08:00

Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates assist nurses, hospital staff and physicians in the basic care of patients. They are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, and other health care facilities.

Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates perform some or all of the following duties:

Answer call signals; supply and empty bed pans; bathe, dress and groom patients; serve meal trays, feed or assist in feeding of patients and assist patients with menu selection; lift, turn or massage patients; shave patients prior to operations; supervise patients' exercise routines, set up and provide leisure activities for patients, and accompany patients on outside recreational activities; and perform other duties related to patient care
Take patients' blood pressure, temperature and pulse; report or record fluid intake and output; observe or monitor patients' status and document patient care on charts; collect specimens such as urine, faeces or sputum; administer suppositories, colonic irrigations and enemas and perform other procedures as directed by nursing and hospital staff
Transport patients by wheelchair or stretcher for treatment or surgery
Carry messages, reports, requisitions and specimens from one department to another
Make beds and maintain patients' rooms
Maintain inventory of supplies
May perform maintenance tasks such as assisting with the set-up and maintenance of traction equipment, cleaning or sterilizing equipment, maintaining and repairing equipment, and assembling, setting-up and operating job-related equipment.

Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates may be called by any of the following sample titles:

aide, emergency room
aide, health care
aide, hospital
aide, hospital ward
aide, medical
aide, neuropsychiatric
aide, nursery – hospital
aide, operating room
aide, patient care
aide, psychiatric
aide, special care – nursing
aide, surgical
anesthetic attendant – hospital
attendant, hospital
attendant, nursing
attendant, nursing home
attendant, personal care – medical
attendant, special care facility
emergency room aide
environmental assistant – medical
environmental support person – medical
first aid attendant – emergency
geriatric aide
geriatric health care attendant
health care aide
health care assistant
hospice worker
hospital aide
hospital attendant
hospital orderly
hospital porter
hospital ward aide
hostel service aide – medical
institutional aide
long term care aide
medical aide
medical orderly
neuropsychiatric aide
nurse aide
nursery aide – hospital
nursing assistant (non-registered)
nursing attendant
nursing home attendant
nursing orderly
nursing services aide
operating room aide
orderly
patient care aide
patient care assistant
patient care associate
patient service aide
patient service assistant
patient service associate
patient service attendant
patient service worker
personal care aide – medical
personal care attendant – medical
personal care provider – medical
personal support aide – medical
psychiatric aide
registered care aide
resident care aide – medical
resident companion – medical
respite care aide
service assistant – medical
service associate – medical
service attendant – medical
special care aide – nursing
special care facility attendant
special care worker – medical
support services assistant – medical
surgical aide
unit aide – medical
unit assistant – medical
unit support technician – medical
ward aide – medical

Nurse Aide jobs overseas for Filipinos courtesy of approved job orders by POEA this April 2011.

It is noticeable that MEGA MANPOWER CORPORATION is deploying nurse aides to Saudi Arabia. Here are details about this agency from the POEA database.

MEGA MANPOWER CORPORATION
Landbased Agency
RM 401 & 502 GEDISCO TERRACE 1148 ROXAS BLVD MANILA
Tel No/s : 5246636/ 5220185/ 5220149/ 5220152/ 5246040
Email Address : megamanpower@hotmail.com
Website : None
Official Representative : MR MARIO S CHUA
Status : Good Standing
License Validity : 3/30/2008 to 3/29/2012

Important NOTES:

These job orders were taken from the POEA website on the day indicated.
Please verify with the agency if the job orders are still active or not.
Beware of illegal recruiters. Read about illegal recruitment here.
Report to the POEA anything that may involve illegal recruitment immediately.

Scam Alert: New E-mail Scam (Phishing E-mail) Targeting OFWs

2011-04-26T11:00:00.000+08:00

In a recent news article, the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh warned the general public, especially Overseas Filipino Workers, against a new e-mail scam claiming to be from Philippine embassies, promising cash prizes and asking for personal details.

This new email scam is one form of phishing e-mails used by cyber criminals for identity theft.

Phishing e-mails are used for identity theft.
Image from here.

The warning came about after an OFW wisely approached the Philippine Consulate General in Saipan after receiving such an email. The e-mail is supposedly from the Philippine Embassy in Muscat, Oman informing him of a cash prize amounting to 500, 000 pounds and asking his personal details for him to to receive the prize money.

This website voices the same warning to OFWs, and to internet users in general. Use logic. How can you win in a contest/promo you did not join? It is close to impossible to be that lucky. No government authority like an embassy asks for personal information via e-mail.

Here's a few to things to spot phishing e-mails and avoid being scammed.

The e-mail does not contain your complete name. Regular phishers blasts out these kind of e-mails by the thousands. They won't have the time to know your complete name. Even if they do, it would be tedious for them to send specific e-mails to respective names. As a result, greetings/salutations in these e-mails are generic like Dear OFW, etc.

There are obvious misspelled words and wrong grammar. For many phishers, English is a secondary language.

Links or URLs posted in the e-mail do not really point you to the right website/webpage. You can check this by hovering the mouse pointer over the link/URL. Examine them if they really point to the official website of the embassy it claims to be. Check if there are mispellings, inserted hyphens, reversed letters etc. More sophisticated phishers can put the real link/URL but divert victims to a pop up page or different website.

Even with these tips and those from other websites, no internet user can really be 100% phishing-free, no matter how smart they are. The best defense against phishing e-mails is better judgement.

For those who have taken interest with similar e-mails, the best course of action is to verify directly with the embassy where the e-mail claims to be coming from.

And in case you spot a phishing e-mail, it would be helpful to report it to authorities and share it with friends and relatives. Spreading the word about it will make life harder for these scammers victimize OFWs.

Here are additional resources about identifying and avoiding phishing e-mails on credit card, banking and financial institutions.

- http://www.microsoft.com/security/online-privacy/phishing-symptoms.aspx
- http://banking.about.com/od/securityandsafety/a/phishingscams.htm
- http://webtoolsandtips.com/uncategorized/detecting-phishing-scam-emails/

Opticians [NOC 3231]

2011-04-24T10:47:00.000+08:00

Opticians fit clients with prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses, assist clients in the selection of eyeglass frames, arrange for the production of eyeglasses or contact lenses and mount lenses in eyeglass frames.

Opticians are the kind of medical professionals that I see at least once a year. They are the ones who help farsighted or nearsighted people see better and at the same time look better. Opticians themselves need an eye for what frame or eyeglasses would enhance the facial features of their clients.

They are employed in optical retail outlets or other establishments with optical dispensing departments, or they may be self-employed.

Opticians perform some or all of the following duties:

Obtain specifications for eyeglasses or contact lenses from a prescription prepared by an ophthalmologist or optometrist or by analyzing the client's eyeglasses or contact lenses and by measuring client's eye curvature, pupillary distance and bridge width, using optical measuring devices
Assist clients in selecting eyeglasses by advising on lens materials, frames, tints and anti-reflection coating
Advise on use and care of contact lenses
Arrange for grinding and polishing of lenses or grind and polish lenses
Cut and edge lenses and fit lenses into frames
Adjust finished eyeglasses to fit client
May supervise or manage the activities of other opticians or student opticians.

A 2-3 years college program in ophthalmic dispensing, apprenticeship and licensing can greatly help an optician in his/her career.

Opticians may take any of the following sample titles:

apprentice optician
contact lens dispenser
contact lens fitter
contact lens practitioner
contact lens technician
dispenser, contact lens
dispenser, ophthalmic devices
dispenser, optical devices
dispensing optician
dispensing optician student
eyeglasses fitter
eyeglasses frame fitter
fitter, contact lens
fitter, eyeglasses
fitter, eyeglasses frame
licensed contact lens practitioner
licensed dispensing optician
licensed optician
licensed practitioner, contact lenses
ophthalmic device dispenser
ophthalmic dispenser
optical device dispenser
optical frame fitter
optician
optician, dispensing
optician, student
practitioner, contact lenses
spectacle frame fitter
student optician
technician, contact lenses
technician, visual ortheses
technician, visual orthotic devices
visual orthesis technician
visual orthotic device technician

Black Saturday - Special Non-Working Day - Pay Guide

2011-04-23T23:13:00.000+08:00

This is for those locally employed in the Philippines.

Were you required to report to work this Black Saturday (April 23, 2011)? It was declared by Pres. Benigno Aquino III to be a special non-working day.

Here's how you should be paid for that specific day.

You are entitled to 130% of your daily rate for the first 8 hours and to an additional 30% of your hourly rate on the said for overtime work rendered.

If Black Saturday falls on your rest day, you are entitled to 150% of your regular daily rate for the first 8 hours plus 30% of your hourly rate on the said for overtime work.

If you did not report to work on this day, you are not entitled to any payment unless it is company policy to do so or part of the collective bargaining agreement between the company and its employees states that payments should still be issued for special non-working days even if not worked.

From the Department of Labor & Employment (DOLE) advisory.

Chiropractors [NOC 3122]

2011-04-22T17:58:00.000+08:00

Chiropractors diagnose and treat patients' neuromuscular-skeletal disorders of the spine and other body joints by adjusting the spinal column or through other corrective manipulation.

They are also known as doctors of chiropractic or chiropractic physicians. Their medical practice is based on the principle that spinal joint misalignments interfere with the nervous system and can result in lower resistance to disease and many different conditions of diminished health.

Chiropractors perform some or all of the following duties:

Take patient's case history, conduct examination, observe patient and perform X-rays and other tests to diagnose patient's condition
Diagnose neuromuscular-skeletal disorders of the spinal column, pelvis, extremities and associated tissues
Treat health disorders in a natural manner through adjustments or articular manipulations and complementary treatments such as electrotherapy, nutrition, light and massage with special attention given to the spine
Advise patients on corrective exercises, posture, lifestyle and nutrition
Refer patients for medical care when appropriate.

Chiropractors may take any of the following sample titles:

chiropractic doctor
chiropractor
DC (doctor of chiropractic)
doctor of chiropractic
doctor of chiropractic (DC)

Marketing Jobs not only for StartUps But Companies Stuck With Traditional Marketing

2011-04-22T17:14:00.000+08:00

Today's post is different. For the first time this is for employers. I'd like to echo the idea of hiring personnel for marketing jobs I read from Mashable, not only for startups but to companies that still have yet to explore online exposure.

Online Marketing Jobs Can Help Both StartUps & Traditional-Marketing Companies
Image from flickr

In the article, Ms. Anna Lindow enumerated five marketing professionals that startup should consider hiring namely:

Copywriter
Copyeditor
Facebook Marketer
SEO Consultant
E-mail Marketing Specialist

I used to be a staff for an online marketing team. I have seen first hand the benefits of having an online presence. It can really do wonders for any company in terms of establishing its name, building reputation, strengthening ties with customers and investors and fundamentally enjoying additional revenue.

I hope that most companies realized that consumers are becoming more internet savvy and that having little or totally no online presence means losing ground to competitors who do. These five marketing positions when filled with the right people can help startups drop that tag immediately and be an established company amongst the big leaguers in their industry.

Companies engaged only in traditional marketing should also explore the possibilities online and start offering marketing jobs.

Job & Livelihood Fair on Labor Day 2011 Nationwide, Over 30,000 Jobs To be Offered

2011-04-19T18:47:00.000+08:00

In celebration of Labor Day on May 1, 2011, the Department of Labor and Employment is spearheading a nationwide job and livelihood fair in Metro Manila and 15 other regions of the country.

Job & Livelihood Fair - Labor Day 2011
Department of Labor & Employment

I blogged about this Labor day 2011 job fair previously but that time venues were still unannounced. Thankfully, the venues for the nationwide job fair has been released.

The main job fair will be held at the Rizal Park in Manila wherein 50 licensed private overseas recruiters will offer overseas jobs to Filipinos, joining 150 other employers.

Job fairs will also be held in the following SM SuperMalls in Metro Manila namely;

SM City Bicutan
SM City Fairview
SM City Manila
SM City Marikina
SM Center Muntinlupa
SM City North Edsa
SM City Novaliches

SM City San Lazaro
SM City Sta. Mesa
SM City Sucat
SM Center Valenzuela
SM Mall of Asia
SM Southmall

DOLE's 16 regional offices will also conduct job and livelihood fairs that will provide many more opportunities to graduates and jobseekers at the following venues.

Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) - SM Baguio and Baguio Convention Center
Region 1 (Ilocos) - SM Rosales, Pangasinan
Region 2 (Cagayan Valley) - Francisco L. Dy Coliseum, Cauayan, Isabela
Region 3 (Central Luzon) - SM San Fernando, Pampanga and SM Baliwag, Bulacan
Region 4A (CALABARZON) - SM Sta. Rosa, Laguna and SM Rosario, Cavite
Region 4B (MIMAROPA) - Divine World College, Calapan City
Region 5 (Bicol) - SM Naga City
Region 6 (Western Visayas) - SM Iloilo and SM Bacolod
Region 7 (Metro Cebu and Central Visayas) - SM Cebu City, Cebu International Convention Center, Abellana Sports Complex City, Cebu City and Macias Sports Complex, Dumaguete City
Region 8 (Western Visayas) - Tacloban City Convetion Center
Region 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula) - Western Mindanao State University Gymnasium, Zamboanga City, and Gaisano Capital, Pagadian City
Region 10 (Northern Mindanao) - SM Cagayan de Oro
Region 11 (Davao Region) - SM Davao, Gaisano Mall Davao
Region 12 (Central Mindanao) — KCC Mall General Santos
CARAGA Region - DOLE Regional Office

Other SM SuperMalls that will also participate in the nationwide Job and Livelihood Fair are:

SM City Bacoor
SM City Batangas
SM City Calamba
SM City Dasmarinas
SM City Lipa

SM City Lucena
SM City Marilao
SM Center Molino
SM City San Pablo
SM City Taytay

DOLE and participating employers are looking to provide 30,000 job opportunities during this nationwide job fair on Labor Day 2011 celebration.

* List of SM Supermalls participating in the job fair seen from Manila Bulletin dated April 17, 2011 Classified Ads D Section.

Sonographers

2011-04-15T17:10:00.000+08:00

Sonographers are medical professionals that operate special equipment which directs high frequency sound waves into areas of a patient's body to generate an image for the assessment and diagnosis of various medical conditions.

A Sonographer performing ultrasound scan on a pregnant patient
Image from learnthat.com

We are all familiar with ultrasound scans that monitor pregnancies or determine the gender of the baby. It is just an specialized application of sonography dealing with obstetric and gynecology. Other uses of sonography and performed by sonographers are:

abdominal sonography (images of the liver, kidneys, gallbladder, spleen and pancreas)
neurosonography (images of the brain and the nervous system)
breast sonography
vascular/cardiac sonography

Medical sonographers perform some or all of the following duties:

Operate ultrasound imaging equipment that transmits high frequency sound pulses through the body to produce images of those parts of the body requiring examination
Monitor examination by viewing images on video screen, to evaluate quality and consistency of diagnostic images, and make adjustments to equipment, as required
Record, store and process scanned images by using camera unit connected to ultrasound equipment
Observe and care for patients throughout examinations to ensure patient safety and comfort
Prepare examination reports for physicians to aid in the monitoring of pregnancies and the diagnosis of cardiac, abdominal, ophthalmic, vascular and other disorders
Perform quality control checks on ultrasound equipment to ensure proper operation and perform minor repairs and adjustments as required
May supervise and train student and other medical sonographers.
Medical sonographers may specialize in abdominal, cardiac, cerebral, obstetrical and gynaecological, ophthalmic, intraluminal or peripheral vascular sonography. They may also specialize in adult or pediatric echocardiography or neurosonology.

Each country has its own policies regarding the practice of sonographers, usually implemented by accrediting institutions authorized by the government. It is best to consult with them when you are looking to practice as a sonographer in that country or looking to be hired as one.

Australia - Australasian Sonographers Accreditation Registry
Canada - Canadian Association of Registered Diagnostic Ultrasound Professionals
United States - American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) & Cardiovascular Credentialing International

Medical sonographers may take any of the following sample titles.

adult echocardiographer
cardiac sonographer
cardiac ultrasound technician
cardiac ultrasound technologist
chief diagnostic medical sonographer
diagnostic cardiac sonographer
diagnostic echography technician
diagnostic medical sonographer
diagnostic medical sonographer – military
diagnostic medical sonography instructor
diagnostic ultrasonography technician
diagnostic ultrasound supervisor
diagnostic ultrasound technician
diagnostic ultrasound technologist – medical
diagnostic ultrasound technologist – military
echocardiographer
echocardiography technician
echocardiography technologist
echocardiography technologist sonographer
echography technician
echography technologist
instructor, diagnostic medical sonography
medical sonographer
medical sonographer – military
medical sonographers supervisor
pediatric echocardiographer
RDMS (registered diagnostic medical sonographer)
registered diagnostic cardiac sonographer
registered diagnostic medical sonographer (RDMS)
registered technologist, ultrasound
registered ultrasound technologist
sonographer – medical
sonography technologist
student medical sonographer
student sonographer – medical
supervisor, diagnostic ultrasound
supervisor, medical sonographers
technician, diagnostic echography
technician, diagnostic ultrasonography
technician, diagnostic ultrasound
technician, echography
technician, ultrasonography
technician, ultrasound
technologist, echography
technologist, ultrasonography
technologist, ultrasound
ultrasonographer – medical
ultrasonography technician
ultrasonography technologist
ultrasound supervisor
ultrasound technician
ultrasound technologist
vascular sonographer

Filipino sonographers can check out at these approved job orders taken from the POEA database for overseas opportunities as a sonographer.

April 2011 Visa Bulletin | 6 to 12 months processing period is no April Fools Day Joke

2011-04-12T08:56:00.000+08:00

The Ministerial Instruction mandating the 6-12 months processing for Federal Skilled Worker program applications wasn't dated April 1. It isn't one of those April Fools Day jokes. It is real! Unfortunately, the Canadian Visa Office in Manila seems to have problem keeping up with the mandated processing period.

April 2011 Visa Bulletin | 6 to 12 months processing period is no April Fools Day Joke

What we have noticed is that Canadian Visa Office in Manila is giving priority to applications filed under the 2nd Ministerial Instruction (29 occupations). These applications are receiving assessment result faster than those who filed prior to them, those who filed under the 1st Ministerial Instruction (38 occupations). The same thing is true with the visa stamping and issuance. In the past, it only takes them about two weeks. But now it takes them around 2 to 3 months. Problem is some of those who submitted passports for visa stamping way back October 2010 are still waiting for the release of their visa, while those who have just recently submitted passports are processed within a couple of months. Please be informed, however, that we are doing something about this Canadian Embassy Manila Processing Delay. We are making a follow up regularly within a reasonable period.

1,000 cap for Pharmacists has been reached
The 1,000 cap for Pharmacists was already reached last month. That means they will no longer new applications for that job classification, unless there's an arranged employment. IF you're a pharmacist and wasn't able to made it, you may still have a chance. Plan ahead, get your documents ready for the next Ministerial Instruction. While at that, prepare a Canadian resume format and start sending applications to employers in Canada. With a certifed job offer, you may then be eligible to apply for Temporary Foreign Worker Program, Provincial Nominee Program or FSW through Arranged Employment Opinion. There's a guide on how to do it at the last part of this April 2011 Visa Bulletin.

New AINP Strategic Recruitment Stream
Temporary Foreign Workers in Alberta may now apply for permanent residence in Canada through Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) Strategic Recruitment Stream even without sponsorship from their employers. This will only apply to workers whose occupations classified under compulsary and optional trades. To qualify under the program, applicant must be presently working in Alberta.

May 2011 Canadian Election
There is a scheduled Federal Election in Canada on May 2, 2011. The result of this election may mean changes in the regulations again. That is if the Liberals win this time. The Conservatives introduced on 2008 a measure to modernize the immigration system. It's that bill giving the Immigration Minister the power to decide who will be prioritized under the Federal Skilled Worker program. The Liberals opposed it, arguing that such measure will be be shutting the door to immigrants. But the Conservatives managed to pass the bill and as a result, we now have 6-12 months processing period for selected occupations. As a consequence, however, those who filed before Feb 2008 are now being processed longer, about 6 years! The Liberals vowed to reverse the said measure if they win.

Visa Processing Status Monitor
For applications filed before February 2008, more patience is needed. The Canadian Visa Office in Manila has been stuck on November 2004 for several months now. Unfortunately, the only way to expedite the process is to find and Arranged Employment in Canada. Another option is to file your application to Centralized Intake Office once your occupation is included in the new priority list. If you are planning to take this option, it is best if you start preparing for the IELTS Examination and updating your documents.

Cetified Job Offer is the key
With a certified job offer from Canada, be it an Arranged Employment Opinion or a Labor Market Opinion, it will definitely speed up the process for you to legally live and work in Canada. But the question is, how to find an employer who will process a job offer for you? Here's a few tips:

1. In sending applications to Canadian Employers, be suse to send a Canada Resume format. Here's a Canada resume preparation guide.

2. Now that you already have a Canada resume format, the next step is to find job vacancies. But where? There are many job posting sites on the world wide web but there's also a number of scammers out there. So here's a a few list of Canada Jobs Portal that could be helpful.

3. More info on how to find jobs in Canada:

It is of course not easy to find jobs in Canada specially if you're just using the Internet. But this is an option that I know for a fact works. Here's a couple of proof:

Mr. Zedfrey Salazar - He attended one of our seminar schedules in Angeles City. He wasn't eligible at that time, due to lack in work experience. My suggestion was to look for employer in Canada. He did and is now working in Canada.

Mr. Mark Hernandez. He sent his resume for assessment. He wasn't eligible so I just told him to look for employer. He is now in Vancouver.

It is always a numbers game, the result will be determined by your efforts. Dreaming of a better quality life is one thing. Doing something to make it happen is another thing.

Dental Assistants [NOC 3411]

2011-04-11T03:45:00.000+08:00

Dental assistants assist dentists during the examination and treatment of patients and perform clerical functions. Dental assistants work primarily in dentists' offices, or they may be employed by government and educational institutions.

Many dental assistants learn their skills on the job, although an increasing number are trained in dental-assisting programs; most programs take 1 year or less to complete.

Dental Assistants
Image taken from dentalassistantjob.org

Dental assistants perform some or all of the following duties:

Prepare patients for dental examination and assist the dentist during the examination
Sterilize and maintain instruments and equipment
Prepare dental instruments and filling materials
Educate patients concerning oral hygiene
Schedule patient appointments and record dental procedures performed
Invoice patients for dental services
Order dental and office supplies
Take and develop X-rays
Polish teeth and clinical crowns and apply fluoride and sealant
Take preliminary impressions for diagnostic casts
Fabricate temporary crowns and restorations.

Dental assistants may take any of the following sample titles:

certified dental assistant
certified intra-oral dental assistant
dental assistant
dental clinical assistant
dental clinical assistant – military
intra-oral dental assistant
licensed dental assistant
preventive dental assistant
registered dental assistant

In most provinces in Canada, there are two levels of dental assistants: Level I – chair-side assistant and Level II – intra-oral assistant. Progression from Level I to Level II is possible with appropriate training and licensure.

Dental assistants in USA

In the United States, most states do not require formal education or training to become entry-level dental assistants. But there is the Commission on Dental Accreditation which approved 281 dental-assisting training programs in 2009 for those who wish to pursue further education related to being a dental assistant.

Licensure of dental assistants greatly vary among states. The Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential, administered by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB), is recognized or required in more than 37 States.

Labor Day 2011 Job Fair, WHERE?

2011-04-11T02:37:00.000+08:00

I'm sorry that I am a little bit annoyed.

I'd really like to help the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) get the word out about the Job and Livelihood Fair which is going to be the centerpiece event of the Labor Day 2011 celebrations this coming May 1, 2011.

But I find the information dissemination about it wanting.

Job & Livelihood Fair - Labor Day 2011
Department of Labor & Employment

DOLE, in a press release, is encouraging job seekers to pre-register online for the nationwide job fair. So, it will be nationwide. But where? Is it so hard to put the specific venues where these job seekers would go to on the day of the job fair? Or are the venues still to be determined?

In another press release, DOLE says that Labor Day 2011 is now on Facebook & Twitter but did not provide live links that will lead to those respective webpages. I feel that job seekers who use the internet looking for job opportunites and job fairs can get served better if they can get the specific information in a few clicks of the mouse.

Is it just me, asking too much? Or the DOLE really needs to improve their press releases and ensure that they provide specific information faster for job seekers?

Interested Filipino job seekers are encouraged to pre-register here. And hopefully, they will be informed where to go to for the job fair very soon.

Speech-Language Pathologists & Audiologists [NOC 3141]

2011-04-05T19:14:00.000+08:00

Speech-language Pathologists and Audiologists diagnose, evaluate and treat human communication disorders including hearing, speech, language and voice disorders.

Speech-language pathologists and Audiologists are employed in hospitals, community and public health centres, extended care facilities, day clinics, rehabilitation centres and educational institutions, or may work in private practice.

Interestingly, one licensed speech pathologist, the late Sam Chwat, used the knowledge he gained to become a famous accent trainer in Hollywood.

Image from mysomeday.com

Speech-language pathologists perform some or all of the following duties:

Administer tests and examinations and observe patients to diagnose and evaluate speech, voice, resonance, language, cognitive-linguistic and swallowing disorders
Plan and implement remedial programs to correct speech, language and voice disorders
Establish group and personalized care plans working as a member of an interdisciplinary team
Conduct research on speech and other communication disorders and on the development and design of diagnostic procedures and devices
May instruct students and other health care personnel.

Audiologists perform some or all of the following duties:

Administer audiometric tests and examinations to diagnose and evaluate the degree and type of patients' hearing impairment
Plan and implement habilitation/rehabilitation programs for patients, including selection, fitting and adjustment of hearing aid devices, teaching speech (lip) reading and providing counselling
Establish personalized care plans working as a member of an interdisciplinary team
Conduct research related to hearing
May instruct students and other health care personnel.

Speech-language Pathologists and Audiologists may take any of the following sample titles:

amplification audiologist
audiologist
audiologist, research
audiology clinician
audiology specialist
certified audiologist
certified hearing aid audiologist
clinical audiologist
community audiologist
community speech-language pathologist
diagnostic audiologist
dispensing audiologist
educational audiologist
educational speech-language pathologist
industrial audiologist
logopedist
pathologist, speech
pathologist, speech-language
pediatric audiologist
research audiologist
specialist, audiology
speech and hearing therapist
speech pathologist
speech therapist
speech-language clinician
speech-language pathologist
speech-language pathologist clinician
speech-language pathologist researcher
therapist, speech
therapist, speech and hearing

Jobs in Qatar for Filipinos

2011-04-05T17:48:00.000+08:00

Jobs in Qatar for Filipinos await. That's practically what Vice President Jejomar Binay reported after going there last weekend.

As Presidential Adviser for Overseas Filipino Workers’ (OFW) Concerns, VP Binay visited the rich emirate Qatar, currently employing some 2, 000 overseas Filipino workers.

Image from Qatarembassy.net

According to Wikipedia, Qatar has the world's largest per capita production and proven reserves of both oil and natural. Its economy grew the fastest in the world in 2010. In 2022, it will be the host country for the World Cup.

It is nice to learn that overseas Filipino workers there have established a solid reputation for being hardworking, disciplined, highly skilled and very professional coming from Crown Prince Sheik Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani himself.

A quick reference to POEA revealed that approved job orders for deployment to Qatar are plenty and varied. In March 2011 alone, jobs in Qatar for Filipinos include among many others:

Administration jobs - accountants, clerks, secretaries, document controllers, receptionists
Engineering jobs - mechanical, electrical, civil, petroleum
Technical jobs - electrical, mechanical
Skilled jobs - drivers, painters, mechanics, heavy equipment operators, welders
General jobs - household helpers, general cleaners, storekeepers
Medical jobs - nurses, optometrist, optical technician

This is welcome news for Filipinos looking for work abroad, especially in Qatar. As we now all know, work abroad opportunities decreased in large part because of on-going political strife on several countries and also because of more strict immigration and employment policies in others.

Household Helpers in Cyprus

2011-04-01T15:01:00.000+08:00

One of the in demand jobs in Cyprus are household helpers or household service workers. Cyprus is a high income Eurasian island country and a popular tourist spot in the Mediterranean Sea. Household helpers include domestic helpers, housemaids and houseboys.

A quick check from the POEA website revealed the following approved job orders for household helpers to be deployed in Cyprus this March 2011.

Important NOTES:

These job orders were taken from the POEA website on the day indicated.
Please verify with the agency if the job orders are still active or not.
Beware of illegal recruiters. Read about illegal recruitment here.
Report to the POEA anything that may involve illegal recruitment immediately.

Another quick check from the POEA revealed the following status of the three recruitment agencies listed in the approved job orders for household helpers in Cyprus:

AL-SIQ INTERNATIONAL PLACEMENT AND MANPOWER SERVICES, INC.
Private Employment Agency
RM.303 CABRERA BLDG I #130 TIMOG AVE Q.C.
Tel No/s : 9215094/ 4118881
Email Address : al-siq@pacific.net.ph
Website : www.al-siq.com
Official Representative : DAMASO A. MUTIA
Status : Good Standing
License Validity : 11/23/2010 to 11/22/2014

JEDI PLACEMENT AGENCY INCORPORATED
(FOR GUILLEN MGT & SVCS INC)
Private Employment Agency
RMS 308, 309 & 310 TM KALAW CTR, 667-A TM KALAW ST ERMITA, MANILA
Tel No/s :
Email Address : JEDI_PLACEMENT@YAHOO.COM
Website : None
Official Representative : MR JOSE UMLAS
Status : Good Standing
License Validity : 11/28/2010 to 11/27/2014

HERBERTS` INTERNATIONAL INC.
Private Employment Agency
R301&405 ERMITA CTR BLG ARQUIZA ST COR ALHAMBRA ST ERMITA, MANILA
Tel No/s : 5284586 TELEFAX
Email Address : herbert`sinternationalinc.@gmail.com
Website : None
Official Representative : MR HERBERT RAYALA
Status : Good Standing
License Validity : 2/23/2008 to 2/22/2012

Apart from the demand, one reason to work in Cyprus as a household helper is the relatively higher pay compared to the more known countries for such kind of workers namely, Hong Kong and Singapore.

Cyprus recently increased minimum salary of household service workers from €429 TO €456 a month (US$567 to US$603) retroactively implemented from January 1, 2011. Conversion rate I found via Google is 1 Euro = 61.57 Philippine Peso which translate to salary range of Php 26,413.53 to Php 28,075.92 .

Where as the minimum allowable wage (MAW) for foreign domestic helpers in Hong Kong is HK$ 3, 580 per month. Conversion rate I found via Google is 1 Hong Kong $ = 5.58 Philippine Peso which translate to a minimum allowable wage of Php 19,976.4 . While in Singapore, a domestic worker pay ranges from S$ 350 - 550. Conversion rate I found via Google is 1 Singapore $ = 34.42 Philippine Peso which translate to a pay range of Php 12,047- Php 18,931 .

These are just comparisons based on my immediate research on the internet and subject to change especially with forex conversion. Plus, there may also be deductions. The point is just that household helpers in Cyprus gets a relatively higher minimum pay.

Last year, I posted in this website a POEA advisory about entertainer jobs in Cyprus that may lead to forced prostitution. I think that it is wise to assume that the same bad people may target female household helpers.

Thus, I advise applicants, especially applicants for housemaids, to be diligent in verifying all information about the legitimacy of the position, of the recruiting agency and of the prospective employer.

To those who will be successfully employed and deployed to Cyprus, it would be also wise to regularly inform your relatives, friends or agency about your condition and treatment there starting from your arrival.

I hope that my dear kababayans will find success in Cyprus.

UK Immigration Policy Changes, Advisory from Philippine Embassy in London

2011-03-31T17:43:00.000+08:00

The Philippine Embassy in London advises Filipino nationals in the United Kingdom (UK), especially those who plan to apply for entry to the UK under a work or study route, of the recently announced UK immigration policy changes.

The UK Border Agency (UKBA) announced the following major changes in the Points Based System of Immigration (PBS) effective April 2011. The changes are designed to reduce net migration, to build confidence in the Immigration System, to select the best and brightest to work/study in the UK, and to bear down on the abuses of the system.

The Tier 1 (Highly-Skilled Migrants) General Category will be closed to new applications while transitional arrangements will be introduced for existing Tier 1 visa holders looking to extend their stay.
Exceptional Talent visas will be introduced for people in science and the arts.
Prospective Entrepreneur Visas will likewise be introduced and settlement in the UK for investors will be accelerated.
For Tier 2 (Skilled Migrants) Category, there will be a limit of 20,700 places for Out-of-Country (out of the UK) applications, as the route will become more selective and target the best workers.
Tier 2 will be reserved for graduate occupations determined by the UKBA and the Migrant Advisory Committee (MAC) - the current list includes nurses, medical practitioners, IT operations technicians, finance/investment analysts and engineers.

The full list is posted on www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk.Filipinos are advised to check detailed information on this website on the guidelines and requirements for applying to work or study in the UK.

For any UK job offers, verify it at the following:

Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA)
www.poea.gov.ph

Philippine Overseas Labor Office-UK (POLO)
polo.london@yahoo.co.uk
embassy@philemb.co.uk

From the DFA Website.

Filipino Nurses Cautioned on Nursing Jobs in Belgium - POEA

2011-03-29T16:29:00.000+08:00

In a released advisory, the POEA has cautioned Filipino nurses of being lured by recruiters to supposed nursing jobs in Belgium.

While there may be an actual shortage of nurses in Belgium, foreign nurses encounter difficulty securing employment because of European Directive 2005/36/EC.

I think that European Union member countries prioritize their own citizens and those of EU members before looking for other nationals to fill in professional positions.

The directive implemented by the European Commission consolidates the rules regulating the recognition of professional qualifications among EU member nations. With this directive, Filipino nurses still have to take several unit of nursing subjects in Belgium, so that their credentials will match that of the Belgian nursing curriculum.

Filipino registered nurses are advised against these supposed nursing jobs in Belgium. They may be hard pressed to qualify and secure the nursing position, or worse, the position being offered may proved to be non-existent at all.

New Rules of Canada's Temporary Foreign Workers Program Take Effect this April 1, 2011

2011-03-28T00:05:00.000+08:00

The new rules to strengthen Canada's Temporary Foreign Worker Program will take effect this April 1, 2011.

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program is driven by employer demand and aimed at filling identified labour shortages where no suitable Canadian workers or permanent residents are available. Changes in the rules of this program were introduced last year to better safeguard the foreign workers.

The three significant rule changes in Canada's Temporary Foreign Workers Program were:

a more rigorous assessment of the genuineness of the job offer;
a two-year period of ineligibility for hiring temporary foreign workers for employers who fail to meet their commitments with respect to wages, working conditions and occupation;
a four-year limit on the length of time some temporary foreign workers may work in Canada before returning home

Temporary foreign workers to employers in certain industries like workers under the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program are exempt from the four-year limit because of the critical role of their positions.

For more details on the regulatory improvements, please see Protecting Temporary Foreign Workers and Four-Year Limit for Foreign Nationals Working in Canada.

Landing a temporary working position in Canada is good, not just because of these recent improvements. A temporary job also increases a foreigner's chance to be a permanent resident in Canada or even become a citizen.

Facilities Management Job Orders from the POEA this 2011

2011-03-23T18:50:00.000+08:00

Facilities management jobs are also needed worldwide.

Here are facilities management jobs or related positions for deployment overseas. They are approved job orders by the POEA as of March 22, 2011 10:24 AM.

POSITION	COUNTRY	AGENCY	Date Approved	Job Order Balance
Facility Supervisor	Qatar	Magsaysay Global Service, Inc.	Feb. 14, 2011	2
Facility Executive	Singapore	Mardel International Management & Services, Inc.	Feb. 3, 2011	1
Facility Maintenance Supervisor	Equatorial Guinea	Finest Asia Resources Inc.	Jan. 21, 2011	2
Facility Maintenance Supervisor	Equitorial Guinea	Finest Asia Resources Inc.	Jan. 17, 2011	5
Facility Engineer	Qatar	Magsaysay Global Services, Inc.	Jan. 6, 2011	2
Facility Engineer	United Arab Emirates	Wilson International Manpower Services Inc	Jan. 6, 2011	1

Important NOTES:

These job orders were taken from the POEA website on the day of this posting.
Please verify with the agency if the job orders are still active or not.
Beware of illegal recruiters. Read about illegal recruitment here.
Report to the POEA anything that may involve illegal recruitment immediately.

There were other facilities management jobs/positions approved job orders but I only took that was approved this year.

Facilities Management Jobs: Facility Operation & Facility Maintenance Managers [NOC 0721]

2011-03-23T17:09:00.000+08:00

Facilities management jobs are those designations that plan, organize, direct, control and evaluate the operation & maintenance of commercial, transportation and recreational facilities and the included real estate.

Facility operation managers and Facility maintenance managers can be classified as facilities management jobs and are almost the same except for their major responsibilities which are operation and maintenance of facilities, respectively.

Image taken from todaysfacilitymanager.com

Facility operation managers perform some or all of the following duties:

Plan, organize, direct, control and evaluate the operations of commercial, transportation and recreational facilities and the included real estate
Oversee the leasing of space in the facility and the included real estate and the development of marketing strategies
Plan, organize and direct administrative services such as signage, cleaning, maintenance, parking, safety inspections, security and snow removal
Plan, organize, direct, control and evaluate construction projects to modify commercial, transportation and recreational facilities and real estate
Oversee the installation, maintenance and repair of real estate infrastructures including machinery, equipment and electrical and mechanical systems
Plan and manage the facility's operations budget
Prepare or oversee the preparation of reports and statistics related to areas of responsibility
Hire, train and supervise staff.

Facility Maintenance managers perform some or all of the following duties:

Direct the maintenance and repair of an establishment's machinery, equipment and electrical and mechanical systems
Develop and implement schedules and procedures for safety inspections and preventive maintenance programs
Co-ordinate cleaning, snow removal and landscaping operations
Administer contracts for the provision of supplies and services
Plan and manage a facility's maintenance budget
Hire, train and supervise staff.

Facilities management jobs may take take the following sample titles:

airport manager
airport services manager
airport terminal manager
arena manager
assistant shopping centre manager
assistant shopping mall manager
assistant warehouse manager
athletic facility manager
building maintenance head
building maintenance manager
building operations manager
building services head
building services manager
campus maintenance manager
canal director
canal superintendent
cemetery manager
chief, maintenance support services
conference centre manager
convention centre manager
country grain elevator facility manager
director of maintenance
director, canal
director, distribution
director, facility management
distribution and warehousing manager
distribution centre manager
distribution director
distribution manager
distribution manager – warehousing
distribution operations manager – warehousing
distribution services manager
electrical superintendent
facilities maintenance head
facility maintenance manager
facility management director
facility manager, country grain elevator
facility operations manager
fitness facility manager
grain terminal elevator manager
harbour master
head, building services
head, facilities maintenance
industrial maintenance manager
maintenance and service manager
maintenance and service superintendent
maintenance co-ordinator
maintenance director
maintenance manager
maintenance operations manager
maintenance planner
maintenance services manager
maintenance superintendent
maintenance supervisor
maintenance support services chief
manager, airport
manager, airport services
manager, arena
manager, athletic facility
manager, building maintenance
manager, building operations
manager, building services
manager, campus maintenance
manager, conference centre
manager, distribution
manager, distribution and warehousing
manager, distribution centre
manager, distribution services
manager, facility maintenance
manager, fitness facility
manager, maintenance
manager, maintenance and service
manager, marina
manager, plant maintenance
manager, recreation facility
manager, school maintenance
manager, shopping centre
manager, shopping centre maintenance
manager, shopping mall
manager, shopping mall maintenance
manager, sports facility
manager, stadium
manager, tennis court
manager, tobacco warehouse
manager, university maintenance
manager, warehouse
manager, warehousing
marina manager
marina operator
mechanical services superintendent
operations manager, maintenance
plant maintenance manager
plant maintenance superintendent
port director
property manager
recreation facility manager
school maintenance manager
shopping centre maintenance manager
shopping centre manager
shopping mall maintenance manager
shopping mall manager
sports facility manager
stadium manager
superintendent of operations, maintenance
superintendent, maintenance
superintendent, maintenance and service
superintendent, maintenance operations
superintendent, mechanical services
superintendent, plant maintenance
tennis court manager
tobacco warehouse manager
university maintenance manager
warehouse and distribution centre manager
warehouse manager
warehouse superintendent
warehousing manager

Study Abroad Programs in Australia FREE Seminar - The Australian Certificate and Diploma Showcase 2011

2011-03-23T11:48:00.000+08:00

Study abroad programs are a great way to obtain an education or degree, achieve tremendous personal growth and bolster one's employment opportunities. One option could be study abroad programs in Australia.

The Australian Embassy in Manila is organizing "The Australian Certificate and Diploma Showcase 2011". It is a free seminar to find out more about study programs in Australia.

Australia is a popular education destination for Filipinos. About 3,400 Filipinos are enrolled in universities, schools, vocational education and training institutes in Australia. Many of whom started their study programs in Australia thru this kind of seminar, organized by the Australian government itself.

Study in Australia

In the free seminar, representatives from eight (8) prestigious colleges and training institution will present the best in Australian education, giving Filipino students or their parents a wide range of information about an education in Australia.

Here is the schedule of the study abroad program in Australia free seminar.

The Australian Certificate and Diploma Showcase 2011

March 25, 2011 (Friday)
Intercontinental Manila
5:00 PM to 8:30 PM

March 26, 2011 (Saturday)
SMX Convention Center
1:00 PM to 5:00 PM

For queries:
Email manila@studyinaustralia.gov.au
Call/Text 09163187305

For more information, including registration to the said free seminar on study abroad programs in Australia, visit www.studyinaustralia.or/Philippines.

There are also study in Australia opportunites for other countries like Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Australia is a popular education destination for Filipinos. About 3,400 Filipinos are enrolled in universities, schools, vocational education and training institutes in Australia. Many of whom started their study programs in Australia thru this kind of seminar, organized by the Australian government itself.

I am planning to attend the Saturday session as the SMX Convention Center in Mall of Asia complex is just 10-minute ride from home. I am interested if there are scholarships being offered in study abroad programs in Australia and if I am still qualified to pursue it.

ICCRC to Replace CSIC as Canada's Immigration Consultants Regulatory Body

2011-03-19T04:52:00.000+08:00

The Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC) is the proposed new regulatory body to oversee immigration consultants.

Currently, the Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants (CSIC) is the government recognized organization responsible for regulating paid immigration consultants. The CSIC was established in 2003.

Concerns about the regulation of immigration consultants arose. There were complaints from the public and from within the profession about unacceptable practices of immigration consultants.

In 2008, the House of Commons Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration undertook a study of the immigration consulting industry. The committee recommended the creation of a new regulatory body. The Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) then launch a public selection process in June 2010, leading to the ICCRC's naming as the new regulator of immigration consultants.

ICCRC's job is to regulate immigration consultants that they provide their services in a professional and ethical manner. Quality consultation, representation and immigration advice will lead to public confidence in the integrity of Canada's immigration program.

It is anticipated that ICCRC will take the place of CSIC by summer. Transitional measures will be set to ensure continuity of service for both existing members in good standing of CSIC and their clients during the transition.

This change in regulatory body is part of a broader strategy to protect people wanting to immmigrate to or stay in Canada from immigration fraud.

Sources:

Citizenship & Immmigration Canada (CIC) News Release
Canada Gazette - Regulations Amending the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations

People looking to migrate to Canada or work there must verify diligently that they are transacting only with authorized immigration consultants.

Is your immigration consultant authorized?

September 2010 Bar Examinations Results - 982 New Lawyers in the Country

2011-03-17T19:11:00.000+08:00

The September 2010 Bar Exam results were released today by the Supreme Court of the Philippines.

Only 982 out of the 4, 847 examinees passed the 2010 Bar examinations. The passing rate of 20.26% is the second lowest passing percentage in the last 10 years of the Philippine Bar Exams.

Cesario Antonio S. Singzon, from the Ateneo de Manila University is the topnotcher of 2010 September Bar Examinations, obtaining a mark of 89.00%.

The rest of the top bar examinees are as folllows:

Filemon Ray L. Javier, ADMU 86.850
Paolo Carlo C. Tolention, Arellano University 86.800
Janette R. Ancog, Ateneo de Davao University, 85.900
Johanna Sunga, ADMU, 85.850
Krizelle Marie Poblacion, University of the Phils. 85.650
Maria Christina C. Ortua, UP, 85.50
Krystal Lyn T. Uy, UP, 85.50
Johanna Eileen M. Capones, UP 84.800
Wiliam Benson S. Gan, ADMU, 84.750
Glenn C. Carampatana, University of San Carlos, 84.550
Darren L. Salipsip, Arellano University, 84.550

[Click here for the complete list of the 2010 September Bar Exam Results]

Source: GMAnews.tv

The Philippine Bar Exam is the professional licensure examinations for Filipinos aspiring to be lawyers. The September 2010 Bar Exams were held last year (September 5, 12, 19, & 26) at the DLSU Taft Campus and was marred by a grenade blast on the last day, injuring some 50 people.

In a related matter, the 2011 Bar examinations will be held in November at the University of Santo Tomas. The 2011 Bar examinations will feature changes. Multiple Choice questions will be incorporated just like the other professional licensure exams. For the complete details on the approved changes in the conduct of the next Bar exams, proceed here.

ASEAN Scholarships: Full Scholarships in Singapore, No Bonds Attached

2011-03-17T09:54:00.000+08:00

March reminds me of school graduation and of education. Skills and experience are also important but as is often the case, an education or a degree more likely help one land the first job which can lead to developing skills and gaining experience.

I came across a newspaper ad about the ASEAN Scholarships being offered by the government of Singapore. I think that's a top-ranked education.

The ASEAN Scholarships aim to provide opportunities to the young people of ASEAN to develop their potential and equip them with skills that will enable them to confidently step into the new millennium.

The ASEAN Scholarships lead to the award of the Singapore-Cambridge General Certificate of Education Advanced Level (GCE A-Level) (or equivalent) certificates. Outstanding students who perform well in the GCE A-Level (or equivalent) Examination may apply for the ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarships offered by the National University of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore Management University or Singapore University of Technology and Design.

The ASEAN scholarships are open for applications in the following countries now!

Brunei
Malaysia
Thailand
The Philippines
Vietnam

For interested Filipino students, here are the eligibility criteria:

Nationals of The Philippines
Born between 1995 to 1997
Completed at least High School Year 2
Preference will be given to those who have completed High School Year 3
Proficiency in English and a good record of participation in co-curricular activities would be an advantage

Application period for the 2012 ASEAN Scholarships for The Philippines will be open from 6 March 2011 (9am) to 25 April 2011 (10pm).

Scholarship applicants are strongly encouraged to apply online. CLICK HERE.

For more details about the ASEAN scholarship for the Philippines, proceed here.

An education obtained from Singapore will undoubtedly put one to a promising start on his/her career path. After graduation, landing a good-paying job in Singapore isn't far-fetch. The best part about this scholarship, is that there is no bond attached.

Almost all scholarships have age requirements. So, I encourage the youth(or their parents) to be interested with international scholarships and take their chance while they are still eligible.

Begin a successful career with the ASEAN scholarships in Singapore.

Other Professional Engineers [NOC 2148]

2011-03-16T10:01:00.000+08:00

There are other engineering occupational classification not yet covered in this site. They will be called as other Professional Engineers.

This group of engineers includes agricultural and bio-resource engineers, biomedical engineers, engineering physicists and engineering scientists, marine and naval engineers, textile engineers and other specialized engineering occupations.

The following is a summary of the main duties of other professional engineers.

Agricultural and bio-resource engineers design and develop machinery, structures, equipment and systems related to agriculture and food processing.
Biomedical engineers design and develop medical diagnostic and clinical instrumentation, equipment and procedures; develop devices to assist persons with disabilities; advise hospital administrators on planning, acquisition and use of medical equipment; and modify and install or supervise installation of equipment.
Engineering physicists and engineering scientists conduct research, develop processes, programs and equipment to expand fundamental knowledge in the applied sciences and engineering and to support advanced engineering and scientific applications.
Marine and naval engineers design and develop marine vessels and floating structures and associated marine power plants, propulsion systems and related systems and equipment and oversee the building, maintenance and repair of vessels and marine systems.
Textile engineers design and develop processes, equipment and procedures for the production of fibres, yarns and textiles.

Other professional engineers may be called with any of the following titles:

agricultural engineer
agronomy engineer
agroprocessing engineer
architect, naval
bioelectrical engineer
biomechanical engineer
biomedical engineer
biomedical engineer – research and development
bio-resource engineer
clinical biomedical engineer
dairy plant engineer
engineer in agronomy
engineer, agroprocessing
engineer, bioelectrical
engineer, biomechanical
engineer, biomedical
engineer, food processing
engineer, food technology
engineer, textile
engineering physicist
engineering scientist
food processing engineer
food technology engineer
marine engineer
marine systems engineer
naval architect
naval engineer
ship construction engineer
shipbuilding engineer
textile engineer

Good News for Taiwan-bound OFWs, Visa Restrictions Lifted. Factory Workers In Demand in Taiwan

2011-03-15T20:36:00.000+08:00

Good News for Taiwan-bound Filipino overseas workers!

The recent restrictions imposed by the Taiwan government on visa applications of Filipinos to Taiwan has been lifted today. Work permits and visa processing will follow the usual procedures prior to February 7, 2011.

Among the restrictions were additional documentary requirement (Social Security System card) and lengthier screening process.

The restriction stemmed from the Philippine's move to deport 14 Taiwanese to China last Ferbruary 2. Angered, the Taiwan government imposed those restrictions.

In a letter to special emissary Mar Roxas III dated March 15, 2011, Taiwan Minister of Foreign Affairs, Timothy Chin-tien Yang said,

"To express our good faith in response to your visits and the most recent measures taken by your government, we are lifting the restrictions on visa applications for all Filipino workers, effective immediately, and will resume the method used to process their work permits prior to February 7, 2011."

Source: GMAnews.tv

Former Senator Mar Roxas III was sent to Taiwan in February 21 & March 14 to resolve the issue. The change of commissioner in the Philippine Bureau of Immigration was viewed by Taiwan as a form of apology. One, it demanded from the Philippine government when the row started.

This breath of good news for Taiwan-bound Filipino overseas workers would surely motivate them more to perform their jobs well in Taiwan.

As of this writing, approved job orders by the POEA for Taiwan show that factory workers are in demand in Taiwan.

Best of luck to all Taiwan-bound OFWs. To other Filipinos looking for Taiwan jobs, beware of illegal recruiters.

Discover Canada: the Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship - Updated Citizenship Guide

2011-03-15T11:01:00.000+08:00

For those wanting to work in Canada and eventually become a citizen, it would greatly help them to know by heart, Discover Canada especially the recently updated version.

Discover Canada: the Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship is a popular citizenship study guide read by Canadians themselves. It is also the official study guide for the citizenship test, a very good resource for citizenship applicants or for students simply researching about Canada.

Discover Canada: the Rights & Responsibilities of Citizenship
Screenshot of Cover Page

This comprehensive guide to Canadian citizensip was launched on November 12, 2009. It was updated to further strengthen its content on common Canadian values such as freedom, democracy, human rights, the rule of law and the equality of men & women. It is very helpful to understand Canada's history, values, symbols and Canadian institutions. It also highlights the contribution of ethnic and cultural communities in shaping Canadian identity and the sacrifices made by Canada's veterans.

Changes to the guide include:

A new pull-out box called Becoming Canadian which emphasizes that a newcomer has a responsibility to embrace Canadian democratic principles and that past experiences in warfare or conflict do not justify bringing violent, extreme or hateful prejudices to Canada.
Recognition that gay and lesbian Canadians enjoy the full protection of and equal treatment under the law, including access to civil marriage.
The addition of forced marriage among the practices that are not tolerated in Canada.
Additions to the section on the War of 1812, which celebrates its bicentennial next year.
The section has been expanded to include more context on the conflict and its importance in shaping Canada.
A revamped Modern Canada section including new headings, more content about trade and economic growth, and more examples of Canada’s outstanding cultural figures.

- Source: CIC Website.

Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship can be downloaded or ordered from the CIC website. Click HERE.

Citizenship applicants can contact the CIC Call Centre at 1-888-242-2100 for any questions.

Attend the 2nd Manila Bulletin Job Fair at Glorietta on March 14 & 15, 2011

2011-03-13T19:36:00.000+08:00

Filipinos looking for employment should go to the Glorietta Activity center tomorrow, March 14 and on Tuesday, March 15 for the 2nd Manila Bulletin Job Fair.

I learned of this from Today's issue of Manila Bulletin. Last year, the inaugural Manila Bulletin Job Fair were attended by over 3000 people.

Aside from employment opportunities, attendees of this job fair can get invaluable tips and information from the free talks to be given by top caliber expert speakers.

Giveaways and freebies also await participants of the 2nd Manila Bulletin Job Fair. If you intend to attend, be early.

Good luck to all job seekers who will attend.

Computer Engineers [NOC 2147] (Except Software Engineers and Designers)

2011-03-12T13:28:00.000+08:00

Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers) research, plan, design, develop, modify, evaluate and integrate computer and telecommunications hardware and related equipment, and information and communication system networks including mainframe systems, local and wide area networks, fibre-optic networks, wireless communication networks, Intranets, the Internet and other data communications systems.

Computer Engineers [NOC 2147]
Image from Wikipedia

Computer engineers & telecommunications hardware engineers perform some or all of the following duties:

Analyze user's requirements, and design and develop system architecture and specifications
Research, design, develop and integrate computer and telecommunications hardware such as microprocessors, integrated circuit boards and semiconductor lasers
Develop and conduct design verification simulations and prototype bench tests of components
Supervise, inspect and provide design support during the manufacturing, installation and implementation of computer and telecommunications hardware
Establish and maintain relationships with suppliers and clients
May lead and co-ordinate teams of engineers, technologists, technicians and drafters in the design and development of computer and telecommunications hardware.

Network system engineers & data communication engineers perform some or all of the following duties:

Research, design and develop information and communication system network architecture
Research, evaluate and integrate network system and data communication hardware and software
Assess, document and optimize the capacity and performance of information and communication system networks
May lead and co-ordinate teams of design professionals in the development and integration of information and communication system architecture, hardware and software.
Computer engineers may specialize in a number of areas including analog and digital signal processing, fibre optics, integrated circuits, lasers, microprocessors, microwaves and radio astronomy.

Computer engineers under this classification [NOC 2147] goes by any of the following sample titles:

application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) design engineer
capacity planner, network
capacity planning analyst
computer engineer
computer engineer (except software)
computer hardware engineer
computer systems engineer
computer telecommunications specialist
data communications specialist
engineer, computer (except software)
engineer, computer hardware
engineer, hardware
engineer, network systems
engineer, optical communications
engineer, optical communications hardware
engineer, telecommunications hardware
fibre-optic network designer
hardware circuit board designer
hardware design engineer
hardware development engineer
hardware engineer
hardware specialist, telecommunications
hardware technical architect
microprocessor designer and application engineer
microwave systems engineer
microwave transmission systems engineer
network architect – computer systems
network designer – computer systems
network engineer, communication hardware
network specialist – computer systems
network systems engineer
network test engineer
optical communications engineer
optical communications hardware engineer
optical systems engineer – telecommunications
radio systems engineer
spacecraft electronics engineer – hardware
specialist, telecommunications hardware
systems designer – hardware
technical architect – hardware
telecommunications hardware engineer
telecommunications hardware specialist
telecommunications specialist – computer systems
telecommunications systems specialist
telephone engineer
wireless communications network engineer

Aerospace Engineers [NOC 2146]

2011-03-12T12:58:00.000+08:00

Aerospace engineers research, design and develop aerospace vehicles, aerospace systems and their components, and perform duties related to their testing, evaluation, installation, operation and maintenance.

Aerospace engineers are employed by aircraft and spacecraft manufacturers, air transport carriers, and in government and educational and research institutions.

Aerospace Engineers [NOC 2146]
Aerospace Vehicles image from Wikipedia

Aerospace engineers perform some or all of the following duties:

Design and develop aerospace vehicles, systems and components such as aircraft, spacecraft, missiles, satellites and space-based communication systems
Develop and conduct computer simulations of aerospace vehicles, systems and components using advanced mathematical modelling
Prepare specifications for materials and processes to be used in aerospace manufacturing, maintenance, repair or modification
Supervise and co-ordinate the manufacturing, assembly modification, repair and overhaul of aircraft and spacecraft
Co-ordinate ground and flight tests of air and spacecraft
Develop operational specifications, maintenance schedules and manuals for operators
Develop the technical phases of logistical and operational support for aerospace vehicles and systems
Investigate and report on structural or other component or system failures, accidents or incidents and prepare recommendations for corrective action.

Aerospace engineers may take any of the following sample titles:

aerodynamics engineer
aeronautical engineer
aerospace engineer
aerospace engineer – design and development
aerospace engineer – flight operations
aerospace engineer – flight support
aerospace engineer – flight test
aerospace engineer – mass properties
aerospace engineer – material stress
aerospace engineer – materials and processes
aerospace engineer – military
aerospace engineer – propulsion systems
aerospace engineer – systems
aerospace engineer – systems analysis
aerospace engineer – weight and balance
aerospace engineer, structures
aerospace reliability specialist
aerospace structural engineer
aerospace systems engineer
aerospace test engineer
aircraft design engineer
design engineer, aircraft
projects engineer, aeronautical
propulsion engineer – aerospace vehicles
space reliability specialist
stress engineer – aerospace
structural engineer, aerospace
structures aerospace engineer
systems engineer, aerospace
test engineer, aerospace
weight analyst, aircraft design – engineer
weight and balance engineer – aerospace

DFA Alert Level Guidelines for OFW Deployment by the POEA

2011-03-11T12:45:00.000+08:00

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) of the Philippine government issued the following Alert Level guidelines with respect to POEA's deployment of overseas Filipino workers abroad.

1. For Alert Level 1 (Observation Stage), a travel advisory will be issued by the DFA. The POEA will allow the deployment of overseas Filipino workers with new job contracts (new hires) and returning workers (vacationing or rehires) with valid work visas/resident permits

2. For Alert Level 2 (Caution Stage), a travel advisory would have already been in place and a partial deployment ban will be issued. Under this alert level, only returning workers will be allowed to Bahrain. Returning workers, however, must execute an affidavit that he is well aware of the security ris, but voluntarily proceeds to Bahrain.

3. For Alert Level 3 (Warning Stage) and Alert Level 4 (Repatriation), a total deployment ban will be implemented.

These Alert Levels were specifically implemented with respect to the situation in Bahrain. I think that these guidelines serves as true with respect to any country whose situation can endanger the lives of OFWs.

More Jobs at YouTube this 2011

2011-03-11T12:02:00.000+08:00

2011 is set to be largest hiring year in YouTube's history as the video sharing website plans to grow its personnel by more than 30%.

YouTube needs top talents to fill various key positions this year.

Jobs at YouTube include positions in the following areas:

Administrative
Advertising Sales and Customer Support
Business Operations and Development
Engineering Operations
Human Resources
Legal and Public Policy
Marketing and Communications
Product Management
Software Engineering
User Experience

YouTube is headquartered in San Bruno, California and is now a part of Google. Majority of these YouTube jobs will be based in its headquarters or in Mountain View, CA. Job openings are also available on other YouTube offices across the world.

I think that the most exciting work in YouTube falls on the User Experience division. It is the YouTube jobs that directly impacts those that regularly troop to the site to catch a glimpse of amazing videos.

Are you interested in working at YouTube? Click here.

Industrial Engineers & Manufacturing Engineers NOC 2141

2011-03-09T22:49:00.000+08:00

Industrial Engineers and Manufacturing engineers conduct studies, and develop and supervise programs to achieve the best use of equipment, human resources, technology, materials and procedures to enhance efficiency and productivity.

Industrial engineers and manufacturing engineers perform some or all of the following duties:

Plan and design plant layouts and facilities
Study new machinery and facilities and recommend or select efficient combinations
Develop flexible or integrated manufacturing systems and procedures
Conduct studies and implement programs to determine optimum inventory levels for production and to allow optimum utilization of machinery, materials and resources
Analyze costs of production
Design, develop and conduct time studies and work simplification programs
Determine human resource and skill requirements and develop training programs
Develop performance standards, evaluation systems and wage and incentive programs
Conduct studies of the reliability and performance of plant facilities and production or administrative systems
Develop maintenance standards, schedules and programs
Establish programs and conduct studies to enhance industrial health and safety or to identify and correct fire and other hazards
Evaluate or assess industrial facilities
Supervise technicians, technologists, analysts, administrative staff and other engineers.

Industrial engineers and manufacturing engineers may be called with any of the following sample titles:

CIM (computer integrated manufacturing) engineer
computer integrated manufacturing (CIM) engineer
consulting industrial engineer
cost engineer
efficiency engineer
engineer, computer integrated manufacturing (CIM)
engineer, manufacturing
fire prevention engineer
industrial efficiency engineer
industrial engineer
industrial safety engineer
manufacturing engineer
methods engineer
plant engineer
production engineer
QA (quality assurance) engineer
quality assurance (QA) engineer
quality control engineer
safety engineer
systems engineer – manufacturing
time-study engineer
work measurement engineer

Over 6,000 Jobs on "America in 3-D" Job Fair

2011-03-09T19:52:00.000+08:00

The US Embassy in Manila will host a job fair as part of the America in 3-D program. It is a program that aims to celebrate American culture, values and programs in the Philippines. "America in 3-D" is a three-day program to be held in SM City North Edsa from March 18 through 20.

The America in 3-D job fair features 33 American companies offering over 6,000 positions. Some of the positions being offered include BPO positions, IT & Engineering positions. Some of the companies participating in the job fair are Accenture, Chevron, Emerson, Lexmark, Procter & Gamble, Sykes, Pfizer & Teletech.

Click here for the complete list of positions and companies.

Even the US Embassy in Manila itself is looking for fill 7 positions through the America in 3-D Job Fair.

Electrical Engineers & Electronics Engineers NOC 2133

2011-03-09T11:01:00.000+08:00

Electrical engineers and Electronics engineers design, plan, research, evaluate and test electrical and electronic equipment and systems.

They are employed by electrical utilities, communications companies, manufacturers of electrical and electronic equipment, consulting firms, and by a wide range of manufacturing, processing and transportation industries and government.

Electrical engineers and Electronics engineers perform some or all of the following duties:

Conduct research into the feasibility, design, operation and performance of electrical generation and distribution networks, electrical machinery and components and electronic communications, instrumentation and control systems, equipment, and components
Prepare material cost and timing estimates, reports and design specifications for electrical and electronic systems and equipment
Design electrical and electronic circuits, components, systems and equipment
Supervise and inspect the installation, modification, testing and operation of electrical and electronic systems and equipment
Develop maintenance and operating standards for electrical and electronic systems and equipment
Investigate electrical or electronic failures
Prepare contract documents and evaluate tenders for construction or maintenance
Supervise technicians, technologists, programmers, analysts and other engineers.
Electrical and electronics engineers may specialize in a number of areas including electrical design for residential, commercial or industrial installations, electrical power generation and transmission, and instrumentation and control systems.

Electrical engineers and Electronics engineers go by some of the following sample titles:

analogue amplifier design engineer
antenna engineer
audio engineer – electricity and electronics
avionics engineer
broadcasting professional engineer
chief electrical engineer
chief electronics engineer
chief engineer – electric power
chief engineer – radio and television broadcasting
circuit design engineer
communications and electronics engineer – military
control systems engineer
design and development engineer, electrical and electronic systems
design engineer, electrical
design engineer, electrical power systems
design engineer, radio and television broadcasting systems
digital circuit design engineer
displays and controls design engineer
distribution planning engineer, electrical
electrical and electronics research engineer
electrical design engineer
electrical distribution engineer
electrical energy transmission engineer
electrical energy transmission planning engineer
electrical engineer
electrical engineer, process control
electrical equipment engineer
electrical network engineer
electrical power scheduling engineer
electrical power systems design engineer
electrical research engineer
electrical systems planning engineer
electronics engineer
electronics research engineer
electronics test engineer
engineer, avionics
engineer, electrical distribution planning
engineer, electrical energy transmission
engineer, electrical energy transmission planning
engineer, electronics
engineer, instrumentation
engineer, instrumentation and control
instrumentation and control engineer
instrumentation engineer
land electrical and mechanical engineering officer – military
line construction engineer
low voltage equipment engineer
meter engineer
metrology engineer
microelectronics engineer
overhead electrical distribution engineer
planning engineer, electrical energy transmission
planning engineer, electrical systems
process control engineer, electrical
process instrumentation engineer
professional engineer, broadcasting
protection engineer, electrical systems
protective relay engineer
radar engineer
radio and television broadcasting design engineer
radio and television broadcasting systems design engineer
radio research engineer
roadway lighting design engineer
rural electrification engineer
satellite instrumentation engineer
service engineer, electrical power systems
signal engineer
spacecraft electronics engineer
technical services electrical engineer
television systems engineer
test engineer, electronics
underground electrical distribution engineer

March 2011 Visa Bulletin - Congratulations to graduating students and their parents!

2011-03-09T09:47:00.000+08:00

School graduation ceremonies are normally held during the month of March. It's that time of the year that parents feel some sort of accomplishments - for being able to send their kids to school, for giving their kids the education they need.

Congratulations to graduating students and their parents!

March 2011 Visa Bulletin

Giving your kids a quality education in this part of the globe is a real struggle. With a commercialized educational system, education is now like a commodity and is just a privilege, not a right as stated in the constitution. Graduation ceremonies, however, may also mean a signal for a more serious struggle - their kids moving up from elementary education to high school or from high school to college. Almost all schools increase tuition every year. That, to most parents, is a concern.

But those who are now living and working in Canada with their family are insulated from this kind of problem. In Canada, education is free. You can also have this benefit. You just have to want it and make a commitment to your decision.

Let's get your application filed!

If your occupation is in the current list of 29 in-demand occupations, you only have until June 30, 2011 or until the 1,000 cap for your occupation is reached, to get your application filed to Centralized Intake Office (CIO). That's less than 4 months from now. You have to act quickly!

What is to be done?

This also applies to those who availed the start up program (Privilege Plan) in preparation for the new list of occupations which may be released this July 2011 (or earlier).

1. Log on to http://clients.go2canada.com and fill up the online application forms. By now, you should already have your username and password. If not, please get in touch with your assigned Consultant.

2. Submit basic requirements. You should do this only after filling up the forms online. We will not accept partial submission. When visiting the office, please set an appointment first. Basic requirements includes original or certified true copies of the following:

- NSO Authenticated birth certificates of all family members
- NSO Authenticated marriage Certificate/Proof of common-law partnership
- NSO Authenticated CENOMAR/Advisory on Marriage
- College/University Diploma and TOR (principal applicant and spouse)
- Copy of passport (all family members)
- Proof of relationship in Canada, if applicable
- Employment Certificates/Other proof of employemnt (all employers within the last ten years, for the principal applicant only)

3. Send your job description using the prescribed format for review and enhancement.

4. Take the IELTS Exam. Remember that the result of your exam will be released about two weeks after the exam. The sooner you schedule your exam, the better. But make sure you make the necessary preparation. Take advantage of our FREE IELTS Simulation Test and Evaluation. For IELTS Examination schedule, visit www.ielts.org

5. Finalization of application forms. To do this, you need to submit the remaining required documents such as IELTS Exam result, employment certificate with detailed duties and responsibilities, proof of funds, etc.

6. Send your application to Centralized Intake Office. Here we will need your payment for the visa processing fee in a form of bank draft payable to Receiver General For Canada in Canadian currency. You can also use credit card to pay the visa processing fee.

Should there be concerns that we should be aware of, please let us know.

Changes in FSW Points System

Citizenship and Immigration Canada recently proposed changes that will affect the current FSW Points System. The selection criteria and passmark would be pretty much the same but there may be changes in the way points are awarded for each factor. After the consultations that CIC is currently doing, the new points system will be published and may be implemented right away. It may probably affect those filing their applications starting July 2011. Hopefully, it will not to be implemented retroactively.

In a nutshell, the following will be the changes:

Age - maximum points may be awarded only for the age bracket of 21-35 years old and a reduced points for those older.

Language - There will be diffirent criteria for professionals, skilled tradespeople, technicians and apprentices.

Work Experience - The points awarded for this factor will be reduced

Education - skilled tradespeople, technicians and apprentices will have a lower requirement to get points under this factor

The proposed changes will make the program more accessible to skilled tradespeople, technicians and apprentices. It will also place greater emphasis on younger immigrants.

It actually makes sense. If Canada wants the skilled tradespeople, they should make the program realistic. Not many welders talk to their welding rods using the English language, right? :-) See, of the 1,000 cap for the crane operators, only 4 applications were received by Centralized Intake Office as of this post.

Angeles City Satellite Office

We now have a satellite office in Angeles City, Pampanga. It's located at 3rd Floor GM Building, Sta Tereista, Angles City. Should you wish to visit Angeles City office, it's by appointment only. My regular schedule there is every Tuesday from 1pm to 5pm.

Visa Processing Status Monitor

For applications filed before February 27, 2008, The Canadian Visa Office in Manila is yet to finish Dec 2004 applications.

For applications filed after February 27, 2008, processing period is still 6-12 months from the time the Visa Office acknowledged receipt of your file. It now takes about 4-5 months for CIO to complete the assessment and forward a case to the Visa Office. Upon receipt of notice from CIO, it takes about 2-3 months for Canadian Visa Office in Manila to send an Application Number (File Number). You will receive this notice via email.

To check your application status online:

Filed to Centralized Intake Office: CIO Online Inquiry

Waiting for Visa Office Notice: Canada Visa Application Status Online

1,200 Census Jobs at Data Operations Centre for Eastern Ontario & Western Quebec Residents Only

2011-03-07T22:44:00.000+08:00

As part of the conduct of Canada's Census 2011 in May, Statistics Canada needs 1,200 people to staff Census 2011 Data Operations Centre.

The staff will be working at the Data Operations Centre located at 200 boulevard de la Technologie (located directly off boulevard des Hautes Plaines) Gatineau, Québec.

The census jobs at the Data Operations Centre will be composed of 100 Processing Supervisors & 1100 Processing Clerks. These staff positions are only available for Eastern Ontario & Western Quebec Residents Only.

To apply online, please visit: http://jobs-emplois.gc.ca/index-eng.htm.

The official webpage of the census jobs in the Data Operations Centre says that candidates must :

be available from mid-April, 2011 to September 30, 2011. Some positions, depending upon operational requirements, may be extended until October 2011.
be willing to work on a specific 5 day schedule between the hours of 6:30 a.m. and 11:30 p.m. Schedules over the weekend are possible (where applicable, shift premiums will be paid)
meet the education, experience and language requirements indicated on the Statement of Merit Criteria for the position
successfully pass an Enhanced Reliability Security Screening
successfully complete all testing phases, and meet all conditions of employment
be willing and able to work in a high-production, high-volume work environment
Candidates will be hired under the 2011 Census Exclusion Order and will not be eligible for closed competitions, i.e., competitions open to persons employed in the Public Service, during their period of employment.

*Image taken from here.

35,000 Census Jobs Available for Canada's Census 2011 This May

2011-03-06T11:05:00.000+08:00

Canada will be conducting Census 2011 this May. As such, about 35,000 census jobs will be available across the country.

Staff is needed for a variety of supervisory and non-supervisory jobs for the 2011 Census. Canadians and permanent residents are welcome to apply to make a lasting contribution to Canada and its people.

Census jobs start at different times depending on location and assignment. Supervisory positions (Crew leaders) are staffed first, then the non-supervisory positions (Enumerators).

Interested Canadians can mail their application form or apply online.

Print and complete complete the application form available in HTML and PDF format and mail to:

Statistics Canada
2011 Census Field Operations (Management Services)
Jean Talon 6-D8
170 Tunney’s Pasture Driveway
Ottawa, Ontario
K1A 0T6
If you choose to apply online, click HERE.

Online applicants are required first to read and accept Statistics Canada’s Privacy Notice. Also, submission of online applications during site maintenance (between 3:30 and 4:05 am EST) is not recommended.

Please complete only one application. You can indicate in your application that you are interested in positions at the supervisory and/or non-supervisory level.

Candidates will be contacted only if there are positions available in their geographic area.

NOTES:

Information about census jobs for the Canada Census 2011 are collated from its official webpage and posted here.

Image taken from here.

Machinists, Machining & Tooling Inspectors NOC 7231

2011-03-05T21:21:00.000+08:00

Machinists set up and operate a variety of machine tools to cut or grind metal, plastic or other materials to make or modify parts or products with precise dimensions.

Machining and tooling inspectors inspect machined parts and tooling in order to maintain quality control standards.

They are employed by machinery, equipment, motor vehicle, automotive parts, aircraft and other metal products manufacturing companies and by machine shops.

A Machinist
Image from wikipedia

Machinists perform some or all of the following duties:

Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, charts and tables or study sample parts to determine machining operation to be performed, and plan best sequence of operations
Compute dimensions and tolerances and measure and lay out work pieces
Set up, operate and maintain a variety of machine tools including computer numerically controlled (CNC) tools to perform precision, non-repetitive machining operations such as sawing, turning, milling, boring, planing, drilling, precision grinding and other operations
Fit and assemble machined metal parts and subassemblies using hand and power tools
Verify dimensions of products for accuracy and conformance to specifications using precision measuring instruments
May set up and program machine tools for use by machining tool operators.

Machining and tooling inspectors perform some or all of the following duties:

Verify dimensions of machined parts or tooling using micrometers, verniers, callipers, height gauges, optical comparators, co-ordinate measuring machines (CMM) or other specialized measuring instruments
Maintain, repair and calibrate precision measuring instruments such as dial indicators, fixed gauges, height gauges and other measuring devices
Report deviations from specifications and tolerances to supervisor
Maintain inspection records and complete inspection reports.

Machinists, Machining Inspectors & Tooling Inspectors go by any of the following sample titles;

aircraft engine parts machinist
aircraft machinist
apprentice automotive machinist
apprentice machinist
auto parts machine shop inspector
automotive machinist
aviation machinist
bench machinist
charge hand, machine shop
CNC (computer numerical control) machinist
computer numerical control (CNC) machinist
computer-assisted machinist
diesel engine machinist
differential gear testing machinist
electrical machinist
firearms machining inspector
firearms model maker machinist
gear inspector-machinist
gear tester-machinist
general machinist
inspector, auto parts machine shop
inspector, firearms machining
inspector, machine shop
inspector, machined parts
inspector, machining
inspector, machining and tooling
inspector, propellers – machining
inspector, tool and die
inspector, tool and gauge
inspector, tooling
inspector, toolroom
journeyman/woman machinist
machine shop charge hand
machine shop inspector
machine shop inspector, auto parts
machined parts inspector
machining and tooling inspector
machining inspector
machining inspector, firearms
machinist
machinist – military
machinist apprentice
machinist, aircraft engine parts
machinist, automotive
machinist, ballistic laboratory
machinist, bench
machinist, CNC (computer numerical control)
machinist, diesel engines
machinist, differential gear testing
machinist, experimental
machinist, maintenance
machinist, model maker
machinist, motion picture equipment
machinist, mouldmaking
machinist, moulds and cores
machinist, precision
machinist, toolroom
maintenance machinist
master machinist
mould and core machinist
mouldmaking machinist
NC (numerically controlled) machinist
precision machinist
printing press machinist
propeller inspector – machining
prototype machinist
set-up machinist
tool and die inspector
tool and gauge inspector
tooling inspector
toolroom inspector
toolroom machinist
turbine blade machinist

Repatriated OFWs from Libya Gets A Few Good Breaks

2011-03-05T19:38:00.000+08:00

Repatriated OFWs from Libya really deserves a few good breaks to go their way.

The government promised to grant them Php 10,000 financial assistance, loan assistance and to prioritize them for reemployment either abroad or locally.

The jobs or opportunities lost by repatriated OFWs from Libya may not be replaced. At least, not immediately. But, I guess, they can be thankful to be safely back at home and receive some focused attention from the government.

First, the displaced OFWs from Libya will get a finacial relief assistance worth Php 10, 000 thru OWWA. To avail of the assistance, they just need to present their passports or travel documents or two valid IDs with photo.

The availing of this one-time grant will only take a day and is now available at OWWA regional welfare offices.

Definitley, the financial assistance is a small sum. The government promised to provide loan assistance.

Last and more importantly, these displaced OFWs from Libya will be prioritized to be rehired for overseas employment as promised by licensed recruitment agencies who deployed them to Libya.

Should they decided to stay, they will also be prioritized for livelihood programs and local jobs as promised by the DOLE.

List of Repatriated Filipino Nationals from Libya from the DOLE website.

6 Countries OFWs Should Not Look (or worse, Come) For Jobs at the Moment

2011-03-05T18:40:00.000+08:00

UPDATE [March 17, 2011]:
In a memorandum, DOLE Sec. Rosalinda Baldoz ordered Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) administrator Carlos Cao Jr. to “immediately effect the deferment in the processing and deployment of all newly hired workers to Bahrain."

- Source: GMANews.tv

UPDATE [March 11, 2011]:

Deployment of overseas Filipino workers to Bahrain is now allowed, both for returning workers and new hires, as per POEA Advisory No. 10.

There are six countries that Overseas Filino Workers (OFWs) are advised not to look for employment at the moment because of civil unrest and political instability. They are Afghanistan, Egypt, Iraq, Libya, Tunisia & Yemen.

The raging unrest in these countries has posed a great problem to Filipinos currently working there - for their safety & repatriation back home. And as such, job seekers are advised to look for jobs elsewhere until things become peaceful and normal again.

GMAnews TV has this nice infographic about the said countries and other relevant data.

Project head and text: Paolo Ferrer
Graphics: Analyn Perez
Research: GMA News Research with reports from Reuters

The turn of events has been rather unfortunate. Add to that the virtually freeze-hiring in Taiwan. But Filipinos are known to be resilient.

I trust that these sad developments will only make OFWs more wiser into which countries are safer and stable for employment.

Mr.Kevin Stringer Scam - Looking for Caregivers

2011-03-04T10:31:00.001+08:00

Here's another online scam similar to that of Mr. Nicklas Steve Addison from London looking for Caregivers.

Hello,

I am Mr.Kevin Stringer, 36 Years Old, and working with Bachas oil and gas Construction Company London. Due to the nature of my work, I don't usually stays at home unless during weekends. My home address: 72 London Street Reading, RG1 4SJ UK.I'm single parents, I will like you to know that i have just two kids.

Alex and Linda, I need an honest and caring living-in male or female nanny/caregiver who will come to London take care of my kids in my house. I am willing to offer salary amount of 2000, British Pounds every month, Food and Accommodation. And also i will put my effort to make sure that the travel papers will be legal secured. In case if you are interested to be a nanny to my kids, urgently get back to me. Or if you know someone who is willing and capable in taking care of kids, please ask the person to contact me,

Best regard,
Mr.Kevin Stringer.

Contact: kevinstringer27@yahoo.com

SCAM: Caregivers for London | Mr. Nicklas Steve Addison

2011-03-04T08:28:00.000+08:00

There's a certain Mr. Nicklas Steve Addison from London who sent me an email looking for caregivers to take care of his two kids. Here's the content of his email.

Hello, I am Mr. Nicklas Steve Addison, a 43 years parent with two little kids in london. I am a banker working with one of the small bank here in london. I am looking for a qualified caregiver/housekeeper or qualified personal individual who will be able to be looking after my two little kids in my home when I am off to work. my present caregiver will be resigning her post soon so due to the nature of my job, I would be needing someone to take over from her.

I need a caregiver whether female or male that is homely, caring, experience, humble and also God fearing that can take a very good care of my kid in my absents. The basic occupation salary is GBP600.00 Pounds per week and the contract duraction will be two years renewable. kindly email me back or call +447035972087 in regards to this offer.

I will be very grateful if I can get a positive reply from you and do not forget to give me your full details with your CV and passport copy as soon as possible or give me a call so that I can direct you on necessary requirements for the job. Best regards, Mr. Nicklas Steve Addison E-MAIL..nicklassteveaddison@yahoo.com PHONE..+447035972087.

He said he is a banker and dont have the luxury of time but can actually sit on his computer and do bloghopping to "recruit" workers. That it inself is a suspect. And come on, I can't remember applying for a caregiver position so where in the world did you get my email address?

This is not new. In fact, I have lost count how many times I received email of this kind. They just change the names and location but mostly, they claim to be from somewhere in UK. Operators of this scam also use blog comments to lure victims.

Do not fall for it. It's a scam!

POEA Appeals for Loan Collection Deferment for Taiwan-Bound OFWs

2011-03-03T20:57:00.000+08:00

The POEA thru Administrator Carlos Cao Jr. appealed to recruitment agencies and lending companies to understand the current plight of Taiwan-bound OFWs and defer collection of loan payments until such time that they are deployed and are able to receive their first salary.

Due to the rift between the Philippines and Taiwan that started last month, Taiwan-bound OFWs were required to submit additional documents before a work visa is issued. This resulted to longer processing time. Thus, it would be a while before these OFWs can afford to pay for their loans.

Taiwan-bound OFWs surely deserves some breaks in their current predicament.

Last week, the government has set up special windows in five key government agencies (DFA, NSO, NBI, SSS & PhilHealth) to help Taiwan-bound OFWs. Those special windows will help expedite the processing of documentary requirement in compliance with Taiwan's stricter regulations for issuance of work visa.

These efforts to ease the difficulties of Taiwan-bound OFWs are welcome. However, the best scenario would be the quick resolution of the Taiwan-PHL row for the benefit of these OFWs and their families.

Currency Exchange Facility For Repatriated OFWs from Libya Set by BSP

2011-03-03T20:03:00.000+08:00

UPDATE [April 29, 2011]:
For repatriate OFWs from Libya (or if you know someone) have only until June 30, 2011 to avail of the currency exchange facility (CEF) to convert their Libyan Dinars to peso after the Monetary Board of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)decided to terminate the CEF by July 1, 2011.

UPDATE [March 11, 2011]:

OFWs (from Libya) who went back to the Philippines, prior to the voluntary repatriation announced by the Department of Foreign Affairs on February 24, 2011, are not considered repatriated due to conflict, and therefore, not entitled to receive the Php 10, 000.00 grant.

- OWWA Memorandum of Instruction No. 001-B series of 2011

UPDATE [March 7, 2011]:

The BSP will accept Libyan dinar for conversion to Philippine pesos starting Monday, 07 March 2011 from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. using the BSP exchange rates published daily in the BSP Reference Exchange Rate Bulletin.

The BSP and the banks require the OFWs to present pertinent documents such as passport or valid travel papers issued and signed by the Philippine Embassy and stamped with the date of the their arrival in the Philippines.

This Currency Exchange Facility (CEF) is available exclusively for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) displaced by the current situation in Libya. Each OFW will be allowed to exchange up to a maximum equivalent of ten thousand pesos (P10,000.00) in Libyan dinars.

- BSP Media Release

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) repatriated from conflict-torn Libya will have the chance to exchange the Libyan dinars they brought with them as the Monetary Board of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) approved today the opening of a Currency Exchange Facility.

Their Libyan currencies may be exchanged with the BSP or other banks but only up to a maximum of Php 10,000.00 equivalent of Libyan dinars and only within 7 days upon arriving in the country. OFWs who intend to do so will be asked to present documentary proof of their travel from Libya, primarily, their passports.

The peso-dinar exchange rate will be set by BSP and will be posted daily in the BSP Reference Exchange Rate Bulletin.

- Source: BSP Website

Pickers in USA - 25 Approved Job Orders

2011-03-02T16:01:00.000+08:00

Pickers are needed in the USA. That's what the POEA revealed when I looked for approved job orders for USA yesterday.

I believe the job orders are for harvesting labourers or fruit pickers such as an apple picker.

The job order was approved February 23, 2011. And the agency listed was POWER HORIZON INTERNATIONAL RESOURCES INC.(FORJSGS MANP.& GEN. SVICS INC.)

I verified the agency from the POEA's list of licensed recruitment agencies and found the following information:

POWER HORIZON INTERNATIONAL RESOURCES INC.
(FORJSGS MANP.& GEN. SVICS INC.)
Private Employment Agency
UNIT A-41B, ZETA II BLDG.
191 SALCEDO ST. LEGASPI VILLAGE
MAKATI
Tel No/s : 8123377/8140234
Email Address : manpower@powerhorizon.com
Website : www.powerhorizon.com
Official Representative : MA. CRISTINA GUTIERREZ
Status : Good Standing
License Validity : 12/10/2010 to 12/9/2014

Further verification revealed that the data from POEA's database is not updated as the agency's website is now at www.powerhorizonmanila.com.ph. Kindly check with the agency about this job order's availability.

Important NOTES:

The job order was taken from the POEA website.
Please verify with the agency if the job order is still active or not.
Beware of illegal recruiters. Read about illegal recruitment here.
Report to the POEA anything that may involve illegal recruitment immediately.

The Public is Warned against the Increasing US Diversity Visa Scams

2011-03-01T22:12:00.000+08:00

The US Immigration authorities issued a warning against the growing number of attempts to scam people involving the US Diversity Visa Lottery Program.

The US Diversity Immigrant Visa program is a congressionally-mandated annual lottery program for receiving a United States Permanent Resident Card or Green card. It is also known as Green Card Lottery. The program annually grants permanent resident visas to persons from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States.

Scammers are sending fraudulent emails and letters to Diversity Immigrant Visa (DV) program (Visa Lottery) applicants, posing as authorized US State personnel, in an attempt to extract payment.

In an advisory, the US Embassy in Manila warned Filipinos and the public in general about this US Diversity Visa Scam and other visa scams. First of all, the Philippines is ineligible of the said program. And the DV lottery program is free.

One form of the US Diversity Visa scam e-mail instructs recipients to send money via Western Union to a fictitious person supposed to be working at the US Embassy in London. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES should money be sent to ANY address to participate in the DV lottery.

The embassy is advising people applying for US visas to be cautious before deciding to send by e-mail their personal and financial information. Verify first with the authorities to avoid being victimized by scammers and identity thieves.

Know more about the US Diversity Visa Lottery Program and how to protect yourself from scammers via the following links:

http://travel.state.gov/visa/immigrants/types/types_1322.html

http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt003.shtm

http://manila.usembassy.gov/wwwh3023.html

http://manila.usembassy.gov/wwwh3241.html

Picker Harvesting Labourers [NOC 8611]

2011-03-01T20:43:00.000+08:00

Harvesting labourers assist other farm workers to harvest, sort and pack crops. They are more commonly associated with harvesting fruits or fruit picking like an apple picker.

Harvesting labourers or fruit pickers perform some or all of the following duties:

Pick row and orchard crops
Sort, weigh and pack fruit and vegetables at farm
Load, unload and transfer crates, supplies, farm produce and products for transport
Clean up racks, trays, and growing and packaging areas.

Fruit picking is often done by migrant workers as they can be paid relatively low wages and usually do the job quite well. There are no specific education or training requirements to be hired as a harvest labourer/fruit picker. Progression to other farm worker positions is possible with experience.

Harvesting labourers may take any of the following sample titles:

apple picker
berry picker
crop farm labourer – harvesting
cucumber picker
field-grown crop farm labourer – harvesting
fruit harvest worker
fruit harvester
fruit or vegetable picker
fruit packer – agriculture
fruit picker
fruit sorter – agriculture
harvest hand
harvest worker
mushroom picker
packer, fruit – agriculture
packer, vegetables – agriculture
picker, fruit or vegetable
small fruit picker
sorter, fruit – agriculture
sorter, vegetable – agriculture
tobacco cutter – tobacco harvesting
tobacco picker
tobacco stripper – tobacco harvesting
tomato picker
vegetable packer
vegetable packer – agriculture
vegetable picker
vegetable sorter – agriculture

Metallurgical & Materials Engineering, Other Careers To Explore At Chevron

2011-03-01T19:21:00.000+08:00

One of the prestigious companies to look for Metallurgical and Materials engineering careers is at Chevron Corporation.

Chevron Corporation is an American multinational energy corporation headquartered in San Ramon, California, and active in more than 180 countries.

It is engaged in every aspect of the oil, gas, and geothermal energy industries, including exploration and production; refining, marketing and transport; chemicals manufacturing and sales; and power generation. Chevron is one of the world's six "supermajor" oil companies and continuously ranked as one of America's 5 largest corporations in the past five years. - Wikipedia

Metallurgical and Materials Engineering Careers at Chevron will involve a wide range of activities, including metallurgy, welding, corrosion control and nonmetallic materials. Chevron is looking for candidates with a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical or Petroleum Engineering.

Duties will include:

Selecting materials
Resolving corrosion problems
Conducting failure analyses
Researching and solving problems
Providing nondestructive examination support

Explore a career at Chevron on this page or check out the following pages:

*NOTE: This entry is purely for informational purposes only for job seekers.