The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is seeking stronger regional cooperation to improve safeguards for Filipino migrant fisher workers, particularly those deployed to other ASEAN countries.
The agency held discussions on September 22, 2026, at the DMW Central Office in Mandaluyong City, focusing on the implementation of the ASEAN Declaration on Fair, Ethical, and Sustainable Recruitment and measures to strengthen the protection of migrant workers.
Assistant Secretaries Jerome A. Alcantara and Levinson C. Alcantara led the discussions, which covered ways to uphold the human rights of migrant fisher workers who can be exposed to abuse and exploitation because of the nature of their work.
The meeting also brought together Daniel Awigra, co-founder of Better Engagement Between East and Southeast Asia (BEBESEA), who contributed perspectives on human rights advocacy and migrant worker protection.
A key part of the discussions involved recruitment agencies and brokers responsible for facilitating the deployment of migrant workers. The DMW emphasized the importance of establishing clear rules for their licensing and monitoring, alongside measures designed to promote responsible recruitment and address illegal recruitment, exploitation, abuse, and other labor violations involving overseas Filipino workers.
The agency also highlighted the value of exchanging effective practices among ASEAN Member States. Greater coordination within the region could help establish more consistent approaches to the recruitment and deployment of migrant workers.
“The Department of Migrant Workers has always considered the migrant fisherman the most vulnerable workers in the sea-based sector, and this is already a priority for us. Having partners not just within the Philippines but also in the ASEAN neighborhood is an opportunity for us. So, we are grateful for your reaching out to us,” said Assistant Secretary Levinson Alcantara.
The DMW said closer collaboration with its regional counterparts forms part of its continuing work to strengthen mechanisms that protect Filipino migrant workers, with particular attention to those employed in occupations and settings where they face greater vulnerabilities.
The discussions are intended to support fair and responsible recruitment while strengthening protections for the rights, welfare, safety, and dignity of Filipino fisher workers throughout their migration and employment.
