TACLOBAN CITY – In a renewed push to combat illegal recruitment and trafficking in persons, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with several local chief executives in Eastern Visayas to strengthen grassroots efforts against these crimes and extend more responsive services to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
The MOA signing ceremony, held on July 25 this city, was led by DMW Undersecretary Bernard Olalia and Assistant Secretary Jerome Alcantara, alongside key local leaders: Eastern Samar Vice Governor Maria Caridad Goteesan, Southern Leyte Vice Governor Rosa Emilia Mercado, and mayors Luz Ponferrada (Basey, Samar), Percival Ortillo Jr. (Marabut, Samar), Athene I. Lagrimas-Mendros (Lawaan, Eastern Samar), Reinbert Costelo (Tunga, Leyte), Gina E. Merillo (Tanauan, Leyte), and Maria Sale (Almeria, Biliran).
Also present were Norman Victor Ordiz, president of the Eastern Visayas Federation of OFW Help Desk Officers, and representatives from the local governments of Borongan City, Barugo and Carigara (Leyte), and Naval (Biliran).
The MOA aims to boost cooperation between the DMW and local government units (LGUs) in promoting safe and legal overseas employment, enhancing the protection of OFWs, and cracking down on illegal recruitment and trafficking activities.
“The agreement strengthens our shared commitment to protect the rights and welfare of OFWs and acknowledges the critical role of LGUs in delivering DMW programs effectively at the community level,” Undersecretary Olalia said.
As part of the event, the DMW also distributed a total of P1.19 million in financial and livelihood assistance to selected OFW beneficiaries through its flagship programs, including Agarang Kalinga at Saklolo para sa mga OFW na Nangangailangan (AKSYON) Fund; Balik Pinay, Balik Hanapbuhay Program; and livelihood development assistance program.
These interventions are designed to provide immediate relief and long-term support to distressed OFWs and their families, highlighting the impact of national-local collaboration in ensuring the welfare of migrant workers.
The initiative marks another step in institutionalizing DMW programs at the grassroots level and affirms the agency’s commitment to inclusive and proactive governance.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
