The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has taken a major step in addressing long-standing recruitment challenges among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by onboarding its Negosyo Center Business Counselors to GJobs, the job-hunting and referral platform powered by PasaJob within the GCash app.
This initiative is part of DTI’s broader digital push to help MSMEs build stronger, more resilient teams while reducing the cost and complexity of hiring. Through GJobs, small businesses gain an accessible platform to recruit talent, formalize hiring practices, and enhance employer credibility—even without a dedicated HR team.
MSMEs: The Backbone of the Economy
According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA, 2023), MSMEs account for 99.63% of all registered businesses and employ over 66.97% of the total workforce. Yet, a 2025 study by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and DTI found that only 13% of MSMEs plan to expand their workforce. Barriers such as limited access to skilled talent and operational constraints continue to hinder growth, with many MSMEs still relying on informal referrals or walk-ins to fill positions.
Business Counselors now play a critical role in guiding MSMEs on how to leverage tools like GJobs, helping them align staffing strategies with long-term business goals.
Streamlined, Cost-Efficient Hiring
Unlike traditional platforms, GJobs offers a pay-per-hire model—businesses incur costs only when a successful hire is made. It connects employers to 2.4 million verified users while incentivizing referrals through personal networks. Early results show hiring timelines reduced from 42 days to just 29, underscoring its efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
“We recognize that hiring remains one of the most persistent pain points for small businesses. We want MSME owners to take advantage of inclusive solutions like GJobs,” said Grace Baluyan, Assistant Secretary, DTI Regional Operations Group.
GCash VP and Head of Product Innovation Leonardo Ferdinand Byron Perez added: “MSMEs need tools that match their realities. GJobs gives them reach, control, and affordability without requiring large HR investments.”
Leveling the Playing Field
Through initiatives like GJobs, DTI continues its mission to level the playing field for MSMEs—empowering them to thrive in the digital economy while maintaining operational sustainability.
For more information, visit www.gcash.com.
