DMW honors excellence in overseas service at 2025 Appreciation Night as Sec. Cacdac cites vital role of Labor Attachés

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) celebrated the dedication and resilience of its frontline overseas offices during the DMW Appreciation Night held on December 19, 2025. Led by Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac, the event recognized Migrant Workers Offices (MWOs) and Labor Attachés for their exceptional service in protecting the rights and welfare of Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) worldwide.

The evening highlighted the outstanding contributions of several MWOs, with Dubai, Qatar, and Riyadh emerging as top performers across multiple categories. These offices were lauded for their ability to manage complex labor environments while maintaining high standards of care.

Key awards presented during the ceremony included:

• The Haven of Care Award: Awarded to Qatar, Riyadh, and Dubai for their exemplary management of Migrant Workers Resource Centers (shelters) for distressed Filipinos.

• The Innovators Circle Award: Recognized Singapore and Dubai for pioneering digital and operational shifts that streamlined frontline services.

• The Labor Diplomacy Award: Conferred upon Vienna, Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi for their strategic engagement with host governments to advance Philippine labor interests.

• The Lingkod Bayani Award: Honored Bangkok, Qatar, and Riyadh for acts of bravery and extraordinary compassion in rescuing and assisting OFWs in crisis.

• The AKSYON Fund Champion Award: Granted to Qatar, Israel, and Lebanon for their efficient and transparent utilization of emergency funds to support workers and their families.

In his keynote address, Secretary Cacdac emphasized that the work of the MWOs is a cornerstone of the Philippine economy. He specifically noted that in Hong Kong alone, documented and regulated contracts facilitated by the DMW result in an estimated ₱7.4 billion in monthly remittances.

“This did not come out of thin air. Every contract, every peso passed through your hands. So take a bow,” Secretary Cacdac told the assembled Labor Attachés. He underscored that their commitment to ethical recruitment and labor governance is valued at the highest levels of government, including by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

The ceremony also paid tribute to the “pillars” of the department through the Legacy of Service Award. Retired Labor Attachés Angel L. Borja Jr., Melchor Dizon, and Gregorio Abalos, along with those nearing retirement, Cynthia R. Cruz and Joan Lourdes G. Lavilla, were honored for over 30 to 40 years of service in strengthening the country’s migration governance.

Looking ahead, Secretary Cacdac reaffirmed the DMW’s commitment to continuous improvement, announcing plans for upgraded facilities and larger, state-of-the-art OFW shelters. He closed the night with a call for continued integrity and adherence to the highest standards of public service.

“Lahat kayo ay panalo sa amin (You are all winners to us). Let’s keep it going,” Cacdac concluded.