The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) officially commenced its 2025 Year-End Performance Assessment and 2026 Annual Planning Exercises on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. Led by Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac, the multi-day event gathers key officials and regional representatives to evaluate the department’s milestones and chart a strategic roadmap for the coming year.
In his opening address, Secretary Cacdac reiterated the department’s commitment to a “red carpet, hindi red tape” (red carpet, not red tape) philosophy. He emphasized that every Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) deserves seamless, respectful, and dignified government service.
“We are on the right track,” Secretary Cacdac stated, noting that the Philippines continues to be a global leader in migration governance. “Our migration governance is recognized worldwide because we stand for ethical, safe, and sustainable recruitment and the protection of migrant workers.”
To build on the successes of 2025, the Secretary outlined five core priorities for the DMW:
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Global Leadership: Strengthening the Philippines’ active role in bilateral, regional, and international labor cooperation.
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Digital Transformation: Accelerating digitalization to streamline processes, enhance accessibility, and reduce transaction times for OFWs globally.
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Operational Excellence: Sharing best practices between the Central Office and Regional Offices to ensure consistent, high-quality service nationwide.
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Integrated Reintegration: Bolstering the National Reintegration Network to provide better economic and social support for returning OFWs and their families.
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Foundation of Integrity: Reminding personnel that transparency and accountability are non-negotiable pillars of public service.
The planning exercise also featured expert insights to help shape data-driven policies. Director Desiree Joy O. Narvaez of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) presented the Philippine Economic and Employment Outlook for 2026, while Director Sangheon Lee of the International Labour Organization (ILO) in Geneva joined to provide a briefing on the Global Employment Outlook.
These sessions aim to equip DMW leaders with the necessary foresight to navigate the evolving global labor market and ensure that Filipino workers remain competitive and protected.
