A new program aimed at taking on over 11,000 health workers has been launched by the Philippine government.

Assistant secretary for the Department of Health Dr Nemesio Gako said the initiative is targeted at nurses who are looking to build up the necessary experience before applying for jobs overseas, the Philippines News Agency reports.

The Registered Nurses for Health Enhancement and Local Services program, announced by Dr Gako at the Asia-Pacific Action Alliance on Human Resource for Health conference, will involve nurses staying on in the role for 12 months.

It intends to give 11,500 nurses and 1000 midwives places on the program this month, having already taken on 10,000 for the one-year placements.

Philippines president Benigno Aquino III is currently attending the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in Hawaii, at which is plans to develop more opportunities for job creation in the Philippines and improve relations with other nations.