Philippines: DOLE Issues Employment Rules and Regulations for Foreign Nationals in Pampanga

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has rolled out Department Order No. 248, series of 2025, setting new regulations on hiring foreign nationals. The updated policy introduced stricter requirements for businesses, ensuring that local job seekers are given priority before companies consider hiring expatriates.

According to a report from Baker McKenzie, these new rules will take effect 15 days after official publication, although no implementation date has been confirmed yet. With Pampanga’s economic zones, particularly Clark Freeport Zone, being a hotspot for multinational companies. This policy could significantly reshape employment opportunities, potentially increasing job openings in Pampanga for local professionals.

How New Hiring Rules Will Impact Economic Growth

According to DOLE, prioritizing local hires could lead to a stronger economy by keeping jobs and income within the country, instead of relying on foreign workers to fill critical roles. Under the new policy, employers must now advertise vacancies in the PhilJobNet. The Public Employment Service Office (PESO), and a Job Placement Office (JPO) covering the location of the job. This ensures that more Filipino job seekers have access to employment opportunities before expatriates are considered.

The tightening of job hiring policies in Clark Pampanga is expected to strengthen the local workforce and reduce dependency on foreign labor. By requiring businesses to prove that no qualified Filipino is available before hiring expatriates. DOLE aims to boost employment rates and encourage companies to invest in local talent.

This change could have a positive long-term impact on Pampanga’s economic growth. As businesses will need to enhance salaries, benefits, and career development programs to attract and retain Filipino professionals. 

What This Means for Companies and Workforce Adjustments

Employers will now be required to secure Alien Employment Permits (AEPs) and prove a lack of qualified Filipino candidates before offering jobs to foreign professionals. This added process may cause delays in hiring, increase operational costs, and push companies to rethink their workforce strategies. For businesses that frequently hire expatriates, particularly those companies hiring expats and locals, the new regulations introduce additional compliance hurdles.

Industries that rely heavily on specialized foreign expertise—such as BPO, IT, finance, and engineering—may feel the impact the most. With the rising demand for highly skilled local professionals, companies will need to expand training programs and upskill existing employees to fill the talent gap. In response, DOLE is also expected to roll out initiatives that equip Filipino workers with industry-relevant skills, making them more competitive in sectors where expatriates previously held an advantage.

How This Affects Job Seekers in Pampanga

For local professionals, this policy shift presents an opportunity to access more stable and high-paying job opportunities in Pampanga. With companies prioritizing local hires, the number of job openings in Pampanga is expected to rise, especially in industries like finance, hospitality, logistics, and manufacturing.

The new work permits and labor laws in Pampanga ensure that only positions with no available Filipino candidates will be open to foreign hires. This levels the playing field for local job seekers, giving them a better chance to secure roles that were previously more accessible to expatriates.

Moreover, the policy also reinforces employee rights under new labor rules, ensuring fair recruitment practices, proper wages, and better working conditions. However, competition among Filipino applicants is likely to increase, so job seekers are encouraged to enhance their skills, acquire certifications, and stay updated with industry trends to stand out in the hiring process.

A New Landscape for Pampanga’s Job Market

The DOLE’s new employment regulations mark a turning point for available jobs in Clark Pampanga. Shifting the focus towards building a stronger pool of local professionals. While businesses may face challenges adapting to the new rules. The long-term benefits could lead to better employment opportunities, fairer wages, and greater economic stability.

For job seekers, this development signals a prime opportunity to explore new career prospects, enhance their skills, and meet the rising demand for local talent. As Pampanga continues to strengthen its position as a key economic hub, Filipino professionals can expect expanded employment opportunities and a more robust job market in the region.