The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is marking the Philippines-New Zealand Friendship Week, commemorating 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations. Held at the DMW Central Office in Mandaluyong City, the milestone event highlights the enduring bilateral partnership dedicated to promoting the welfare, rights, and protection of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
Centered around the theme “Engaging the Stakeholders with a Sense of Commitment and Genuine Partnership,” the celebration emphasizes robust bilateral labor cooperation mechanisms. These frameworks support the growing community of more than 39,000 permanent, temporary, and irregular Filipino workers in New Zealand, bolstered by the frontline assistance and services provided by the DMW’s Migrant Workers Office (MWO).
The Friendship Week serves as a collaborative platform for government and private-sector stakeholders to advance responsible, safe, and ethical recruitment practices, enhance worker protection, and expand skills development programs. DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac is set to deliver the welcome remarks, alongside messages from esteemed Philippine and New Zealand officials celebrating six decades of diplomatic ties and mutual commitment to migrant workers.
The program features an engaging “A Day in the Life of OFWs in New Zealand” presentation, cultural performances, and a food hall celebrating both Filipino and New Zealand culinary traditions. Additionally, the event includes the unveiling of a Kiwi bird exhibit, symbolizing deep people-to-people ties and recognizing the vital contributions of OFWs to the bilateral partnership.
