Well that's no surprise that's anywhere. Networking can get you places. There are some jobs that aren't even avertised even if they're looking. Many people rely on their good employees to provide references.
nepotism here is spelled with a capital
NEPOTISMO (and underlined, bold, and italicized)
Shawn, you state clearly in many of your posts that you're just beginning to learn about the DR. Some of these things are difficult to 'explain' to a first world mentality & frustratingly to many of us our best attempts to convey reality are misinterpreted. You really have to see it / live it to understand.
Also, understand that like most of us, myself included... you'll think you know how something is, then a few months later you'll realize that wasn't quite right, then a few months later you'll realize that was wrong, then a few months later... If you're not born Dominican, the best any of us can do is just continue our ongoing education.
All of the posters (non-Dominican) with good info were themselves neophytes at one point. Few who last for long in the country think they know it all. They wouldn't last in the country if they did.
You're on the right track, but trust me it's a lifelong process.