Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac successfully led the Philippine delegation at the 116th Session of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Council in Geneva, Switzerland, engaging with global leaders to advance discussions on ethical migration governance, migrant protection, and enhanced international cooperation.
Secretary Cacdac was supported by H.E. Carlos D. Sorreta, the Permanent Representative of the Philippines to the United Nations in Geneva.
During the Ministerial Segment of the General Debate, Secretary Cacdac delivered the Philippine National Statement, strongly reaffirming the country’s dedication to rights-based, migrant-centered governance. He highlighted the essential and lasting contributions of Filipino migrants worldwide, emphasizing that migration is not just a movement of people but a profound source of national resilience and shared prosperity.
“The Philippines is a nation shaped by mobility,” Secretary Cacdac stated, underscoring the deep-seated identity of the country as a leading source of global talent and labor.
Secretary Cacdac further amplified this message as a panelist in the High-level Panel on Migration and Development: Aligning Development Policy for Smarter Migration Outcomes. He stressed a core tenet of the Philippine migration policy: “Every migrant is a rights-holder whose dignity must be safeguarded throughout the entire migration cycle.”
On the sidelines of the IOM Council, Secretary Cacdac actively pursued the Philippines’ labor and migration interests through strategic bilateral negotiations. He led productive discussions with ministerial counterparts from Mali, Zimbabwe, and Lesotho, focusing on:
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Expanding ethical labor mobility pathways.
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Strengthening mechanisms for migrant protection.
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Improving technical cooperation to ensure safe and orderly migration.
The Secretary also demonstrated the Philippines’ strong commitment to the global migration agenda during a courtesy call on IOM Director General Amy Pope, reaffirming the country’s full support for the IOM and its mandate to promote safe, orderly, and regular migration.
Concluding his official visit to Switzerland, Secretary Cacdac paid a courtesy call on Ambassador Bernard Faustino Dy. Their discussion focused on reviewing the progress of existing bilateral agreements between the Philippines and Switzerland and exploring new avenues for cooperation aimed at better protecting and supporting Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in the region.
The participation of the Philippine delegation, led by Secretary Cacdac, underscores the country’s leadership role in international migration governance and its unwavering commitment to the well-being and rights of its citizens abroad.
