The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is exploring closer collaboration with the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) to enhance the protection of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families, following a recent meeting between Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac and Human Rights Commissioner Justice Monina Arevalo Zenarosa (ret.).
During their meeting at the DMW Office in Mandaluyong City, the two officials discussed various initiatives aimed at safeguarding OFW rights. One key focus was the integration of a human rights module into the Pre-Employment Orientation Seminar (PEOS) for departing OFWs, ensuring that workers are well-informed about their fundamental rights even before they leave the country.
Justice Zenarosa also highlighted CHR’s ongoing efforts to collaborate with the Department of Education (DepEd) to embed lessons on migrant workers’ rights in the school curriculum. This initiative aims to eliminate stigma and promote greater respect for the vital contributions of OFWs and their families.
The DMW, under Secretary Cacdac’s leadership, expressed full support for these initiatives, pledging to include them in the Labor Migration Management Plan (LaMMP), which is set for launch on June 7 in celebration of Migrant Workers’ Day.
Both agencies committed to further enhancing inter-agency cooperation and exploring joint activities that will raise public awareness of OFW rights and promote a culture of protection and respect.
