500 price monitors, ‘green jobs’ sought

The Trade Department’s National Capital Region unit is hiring 500 workers to help it monitor prices of basic commodities in Metro Manila supermarkets.

Meanwhile, Senator Manuel Villar proposed a measure to create green collar jobs with the twin goals of creating employment and at the same time protecting the environment.

While Villar’s proposal would require congressional action, the department’s plan is ready for implementation.

Priority for hiring are out-of-school youth and displaced workers who will keep a tab on price movements of noodles, sardines, bread, processed meat and milk, among other essential items.

Trade Assistant Secretary Angel Ty said with the additional 500 price monitors, the department could get the whole price picture in Metro Manila. “Previously, the department monitors only selected supermarkets because of manpower constraints.”

Price monitors will carry identification cards and wear distinctive jackets, Ty said. The survey is a valuable tool of the department to address issues and keep prices and supply stable.

Applicants can register at the DTI-National Capital Region office located in Makati; Park and Ride in Lawton, Manila; and Highway 54 in Edsa, Mandaluyong.

Applicants are required to present barangay certification and school certification indicating the applicant took college units for out-of-school youths. Displaced workers wanting to be price monitors are to present certification from the Department of Labor and Employment or/and ID from previous employer.

Those who will be deployed in Metro Manila will each receive an allowance of P231 for half day of service, five days a week, or about P4,650 a month.–Elaine R. Alanguilan, Manila Standard Today