The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), has put forward key recommendations aimed at strengthening labor migration governance, enhancing migrant skills development, promoting sustainable reintegration, and aligning bilateral labor agreements with a full-cycle migration policy framework.
The recommendations were developed during a two-day Multi-Stakeholders Consultation for the Voluntary Review of the Global Compact for Migration (GCM), held on March 26–27, 2026, in Mandaluyong City. The consultation brought together government agencies, international organizations, civil society groups, and other stakeholders to exchange best practices and identify solutions to address the evolving needs of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) across various sectors.
“The insights shared during this consultation will play a crucial role in shaping the Philippines’ voluntary review of the Global Compact for Migration, as well as guide our bilateral negotiations and participation in multilateral dialogues,” said Assistant Secretary Jerome Alcantara.
Emphasizing the importance of coordinated and inclusive action, ILO Country Director Khalid Hassan called for stronger collaboration through a “one-system” approach to advance effective and responsive migration governance.
The initiative underscores the Philippines’ continued commitment to ensuring that labor migration remains safe, orderly, and ethical. It also reaffirms the government’s dedication to protecting the rights and welfare of OFWs and supporting their families and communities.
These efforts are in line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to prioritize the protection, well-being, and empowerment of Filipino migrant workers worldwide.
