The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) proudly reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to upholding just, humane, and rights-based labor migration policies through its active participation in the 113th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC), held from June 2-13, 2025, in Geneva.
The Philippine delegation, spearheaded by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) under Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma, and with significant involvement from the DMW, led by Undersecretary Jainal T. Rasul Jr., emphatically reinforced the Philippines’ dedication to championing the rights and welfare of Filipino migrant workers globally.
In direct adherence to the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac to strengthen international labor cooperation and ensure enhanced opportunities and robust protection for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families, the DMW actively engaged with a range of bilateral and multilateral partners. These strategic discussions aimed to bolster collaboration with key countries, including Qatar, Oman, Jordan, Kuwait, Papua New Guinea, and Lithuania, as well as with the International Organization for Migration (IOM). These engagements are crucial for strengthening cooperation frameworks, advancing shared labor protection goals, and addressing evolving concerns that affect Filipino migrant workers worldwide.
Furthermore, the DMW played an integral role in various committee meetings during the conference, notably participating in the Standard-Setting Committee on Decent Work in the Platform Economy, which was ably chaired by Labor Undersecretary Benedicto Ernesto R. Bitonio, Jr.
Undersecretary Rasul was joined by a distinguished team of DMW officials, including Director Geraldine C. Mendez, MWO-Geneva Officer-in-Charge Lovellie Ann Amores, Administrative Officer Khaasie Gapuzan, and the incoming Labor Attaché to Geneva, Jesus Vicente H. Magsaysay II.
The DMW’s profound involvement in global standard-setting initiatives and targeted bilateral diplomacy underscores its commitment to ensuring that the protection and welfare of Filipino migrant workers consistently remain a top priority on the international stage.
