The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is reporting major progress in how it uses funds intended for the protection and welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families, saying it is now on course to fully maximize its budget by the end of 2025.
DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac clarified recent reports labeling the agency as a low spender, stressing that its 2024 utilization rate was 73%—not 49% as some outlets claimed.
“For 2024, we had a 73% utilization rate. And I admit that is still not a desirable rating as it should be 100%. But I’m glad to report that the DMW had reversed this trend thus far in 2025. And we’re on track toward 100% utilization by the end of 2025,” Cacdac said.
As of July 31, 2025, the department’s ₱2.1 billion AKSYON Fund had already reached a 61.8% utilization rate, surpassing last year’s 59% performance. Cacdac noted that the agency is now on pace to fully exhaust—or even overspend—its allocation to ensure greater support reaches OFWs.
He attributed the stronger budget performance to the hiring of 500 additional personnel, which has boosted the department’s capacity to respond to the needs of migrant workers and their families.
According to the secretary, the improvements underscore the DMW’s commitment to delivering faster, more responsive services, ensuring every peso in its budget directly benefits Filipino workers abroad.
