Marcos tasks DMW to strengthen labor diplomacy efforts to protect OFWs

President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. on Wednesday directed the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to strengthen labor diplomacy at the bilateral and multilateral levels as he pushed for the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). 

''First, strengthen protection of OFWs by making sure that government will be there during their hour of need," Marcos said in his speech at the Labor Day with the President in Malacañang.

The President ordered the DMW to use the government's P2.8-billion Aksyon Fund and provide protection for distressed OFWs to attain justice and be safe from harm during global crises and emergencies. Let us also likewise provide forms of assistance to OFWs requiring welfare, repatriation, and reintegration services.'' 
 
''Second, let us strengthen our efforts on labor diplomacy at the bilateral and multilateral level, and realize our shared responsibility with host country  to ensure safe and ethical recruitment processes and just and humane conditions for our OFWs,'' Marcos added. 

In empowering the welfare of OFWs, Marcos tasked the DMW, the Department of Labor and Employment, and all other government agencies to strengthen program coordination and development for the reintegration of returning OFWs.  

Marcos also reaffirmed the commitment of his administration to champion the rights of Filipino workers. 

He also recognized the dedication of the Filipino workers and their pursuit of a better life for their loved ones that “fuel the engine of progress” in the Philippines as he highlighted the significance of the “Philippine Development Plan.”

The President said the government continues to find ways to improve the lives of the Filipino laborers. —KBK, GMA Integrated News