BATANGAS — In a ceremony held on Monday, March 23, 2026, Governor Vilma Santos-Recto led the send-off of 161 farm workers from Batangas under the Provincial Seasonal Farm Workers Program. The event took place at the Bulwagang Batangan and was organized by the Provincial Assistance for Community, Public Employment, and Youth and Sports Development Office (PACPEYSDO).

The departing workers are part of Batches 2, 3, and 4, and are slated to work in South Korea, gaining exposure and experience in international agricultural operations. The program is part of the provincial government’s ongoing initiative to provide meaningful employment opportunities for Batangueños while supporting global labor exchange and development.

Governor Santos-Recto emphasized that programs like these not only open doors for higher income and skills enhancement but also help strengthen the province’s labor force competitiveness on an international scale. She encouraged the participants to uphold professionalism and use the experience to contribute positively to their communities upon return. While initiatives like this address local employment challenges, they also raise important questions about the country’s labor market: Does the growing reliance on overseas placements reflect gaps in domestic employment opportunities? And how can provinces like Batangas balance sending skilled workers abroad while ensuring that local industries also thrive?

(Larawan mula: Batangas PIO / Facebook)