Malacañang confirmed on Wednesday that Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Deputy Administrator Emma Sinclair has been relieved of her post in connection with the controversial P1.4-billion land acquisition deal under the agency’s former leadership.
The announcement was made by Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro during a press briefing, stating that Sinclair was removed due to a “loss of trust and confidence.”
“Maliban po diyan, mayroon pa pong isa na makakasama, ang deputy [administrator] na si Emma Sinclair, pareho po silang tinanggal. Hindi po sila pinagresign,” Castro emphasized, referring also to the earlier removal of former OWWA Administrator Arnell Ignacio.
Castro underscored that this action sends a strong message to all government officials that failure to fulfill their duties will result in dismissal.
The P1.4-billion land deal, which was allegedly not approved by the OWWA Board, was intended for the construction of a halfway house for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) near Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1, according to OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne “PJ” Caunan.
Meanwhile, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is still evaluating whether the project will proceed and continues to gather information as it considers filing cases against those involved. Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said the project’s feasibility remains under review.
Former OWWA chief Ignacio has yet to provide a detailed response, saying only that he will address the matter in the proper forum. Sinclair has not responded to media inquiries as of posting time.
