The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration partnered with SM Malls to provide Filipinos with the necessary information on what to expect while working abroad.

Potential OFWs are given free Pre-Employment Orientation Seminar (PEOS) at selected SM Malls starting this month.

“Worker-applicants need to be oriented early on so they can make the right decision of whether to work overseas or avail themselves of opportunities at home,” said POEA Administrator Jennifer Manalili.

The partnership was strengthened with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the POEA and the labor department and the SM Retail Inc, and SM Prime Holdings, Inc last August 24, 2009.

Manalili said PEOS aims to create greater awareness and understanding of foreign employment for those who are still considering the prospects of working overseas.

“A reliable information program like the PEOS can help them make an informed and intelligent decision,” she said.

PEOS, she added, is also a tool for worker protection and empowerment as it explains the procedures, documentary requirements, advantages and disadvantages of overseas employment, selection and verification of the Philippine licensed agencies, the modus operandi of illegal recruiters and the ways to detect illegal recruitment activities, and government services available to overseas job applicants and hired workers.

Aside from selected SM Malls, PEOS is also regularly conducted at the POEA Main Office and regional offices nationwide.