MANILA (January 6) — The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Monday reaffirmed its commitment to fast, people-centered services for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families, with a special focus on Mindanao and Visayas regions.
At the agency’s first flag-raising ceremony for 2026 in Mandaluyong City, Hans Leo Cacdac emphasized the department’s “red carpet, not red tape” approach, ensuring that OFWs receive timely assistance, especially in emergency situations.
“The department is the first responder to the needs of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families,” Cacdac said.
Guest speaker Rev. Fr. Carmelo “Tito” Caluag, executive director of Caritas Philippines, highlighted the importance of compassion in public service, especially in addressing the social costs of labor migration, including the long absences of parents from their families.
“We must step into the ‘chaos’ of another person’s world,” Caluag said.
Regional Impact and Beneficiary Voices
During the holiday period (Dec. 29, 2025 – Jan. 2, 2026), regional DMW offices handled tens of thousands of urgent requests from OFWs:
- Mindanao OFWs were assisted by Regional Office 7 (Central Visayas) and Region 10 (Northern Mindanao), providing immediate support to families of repatriated workers and those facing emergencies.
“When my husband’s work contract ended abruptly, I didn’t know where to turn,” said Marilou A., an OFW spouse from Cagayan de Oro. “DMW helped us with food, shelter, and documentation. They made it feel like we weren’t alone.”
- Visayas OFWs received aid from Regional Office 6 (Western Visayas), which distributed PHP89.3 million in AKSYON Fund assistance, reaching hundreds of beneficiaries during the holiday rush.
