The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) of the Philippines and the Ministry of Labour, Pension System, Family and Social Policy of the Republic of Croatia signed a joint statement, cementing a new era of labor cooperation focused on the protection and ethical recruitment of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
The landmark signing, held at the DMW Central Office in Mandaluyong City, follows the 1st Joint Committee Meeting on the Memorandum of Cooperation in the Field of Labour Market. This agreement introduces several critical reforms designed to eliminate recruitment malpractice and streamline the deployment process for Filipino workers seeking employment in Croatia.
The key commitment outlined in the Joint Statement is the adoption of a no placement fee policy for OFWs deployed to Croatia, ensuring that workers are no longer burdened by costly fees. This policy is complemented by the agreement to pursue Government-to-Government (G2G) hiring, starting with the hotel worker sector, reducing reliance on private agencies.
Migrant Workers Undersecretary Jainal T. Rasul, Jr., who signed on behalf of the DMW, and State Secretary Ivan Vidis, representing Croatia, both emphasized the significance of the event.
“This signing marks a milestone in the deepening of Philippines–Croatia labor relations, built on mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to ethical and fair recruitment,” the officials stated jointly.
The Joint Statement also includes new areas of partnership aimed at boosting labor mobility and ensuring comprehensive worker support, including:
- Streamlining Work Permits and Residence Cards to expedite the deployment process.
- Strengthened Cooperation on Pre-Departure and Post-Arrival Orientation Seminars (PDOS and PAOS).
- Improved Coordination to ensure proper documentation and protection for workers entering Croatia through third countries.
- The potential deployment of healthcare workers to Croatia.
The ceremony was a highlight of the PH–Croatia Friendship Week Celebration, co-hosted by both nations, symbolizing a strengthening bond. The event was witnessed by distinguished guests, including Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac, Philippine Ambassador to Croatia H.E. Evangelina Lourdes A. Bernas, P.E., Austria, Croatia’s Minister of Foreign and European Affairs H.E. Gordan Grlić Radman, and Croatia’s Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Nebojša Koharović.
The DMW views this Joint Statement as a strong foundation for promoting safe, fair, and inclusive labor migration practices globally.
