Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) can now turn their years of work experience abroad into academic credentials, thanks to a historic partnership signed between the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).
The memorandum of understanding (MOU), inked during the “Converge to ACHIEVE: Higher Education Summit,” unlocks opportunities for OFWs to access CHED’s micro-credentialing, skills recognition, and accreditation programs. These programs allow migrant workers to gain formal qualifications through their overseas employment, enabling them to pursue further studies and professional development.
“Today, we are opening new doors for OFWs,” said DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac. “Their knowledge and skills gained abroad will be recognized and accredited, enabling them to pursue credentials, continuing education, certifications and diplomas. This is how we honor their sacrifices—with real opportunities for growth.”
Through the partnership, OFWs will gain better access to CHED’s Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP), distance learning options, and short-term certificate programs tailored for workers who have put their academic goals on hold to support their families.
The DMW is set to actively promote these educational offerings via its regional and overseas offices to ensure that Filipino workers—whether preparing for reintegration or planning for a career shift—can take full advantage of these pathways.
