In a groundbreaking development aimed at bolstering the welfare of Muslim Filipino migrant workers, a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was recently inked. Prominent officials, including NCMF OIC Secretary Yusoph J. Mando, DMW OIC Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, and OWWA Administrator Arnaldo Ignacio signed this milestone agreement. The signing ceremony occurred on February 22, 2024, at the PST Hall, DMW Building, on Ortigas Avenue in Mandaluyong City.
This collaborative effort signifies a concerted whole-of-government approach toward facilitating and safeguarding the employment journey of Muslim Filipino migrant workers and individuals aspiring to work abroad. To ensure their well-being and security, the MoA sets forth comprehensive measures and initiatives to address the diverse needs and challenges faced by this vital segment of the workforce.
Under the terms of the agreement, various government agencies, including the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) through the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), commit to working hand in hand. Together, they will implement programs and policies to provide holistic support to Muslim Filipino migrant workers, encompassing areas such as pre-employment assistance, skills development, legal protection, and repatriation services.
The significance of this collaborative endeavor cannot be overstated. By pooling resources, expertise, and networks, the participating agencies can amplify their impact and better address the multifaceted needs of Muslim Filipino migrant workers. Moreover, the MoA underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of migrant workers, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the country’s economy and development.
For Muslim Filipino migrant workers and applicants, this MoA represents a beacon of hope and assurance. It signals a proactive and coordinated approach towards addressing their concerns and ensuring a more seamless and secure employment experience abroad. With the combined efforts of government agencies, the employment journey of these modern-day heroes is poised to become smoother, safer, and more fulfilling.
