Development and Modernization of Work (DMW) and its partner, CLADS, have been launched in the Visayas region to enhance services for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Coalition of Licensed Agencies for Domestic, Service, and Skilled Workers (CLADS) recently concluded a Capability Enhancement Training for Welfare Desk Officers (WeDOs) of Philippine Recruitment Agencies. The training, held on August 22, 2025, aimed to strengthen the role of WeDOs in advocating and supporting the welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).

The event was graced by several prominent figures, including Atty. Julyn S. Ambito-Fermin, Assistant Secretary for Pre-Employment Services, who presented on the theme "We Do. We Don't." This topic focused on strengthening the role of WeDOs in protecting and improving the situation of OFWs.

Atty. Liza C. Alcera, OIC-Director IV of the Licensing Regulations Bureau, also shared insights, discussing the legal remedies available under DMW Rules and related issuances. Atty. Butch Donabel Ragas-Bilocura, a Labor Arbiter at the NLRC RAB 7, discussed new jurisprudence regarding the rights of OFWs in overseas employment.

To ensure the holistic well-being of WeDOs and the OFWs they serve, a session titled "Caring for the Carers: Self-Care and Stress Management" was presented by Prince Irl Ronquillo, a Health Program Researcher at the Department of Health, and Dr. Julius Matthew Luzana, a Medical Officer III at the DOH.

Ms. Margie D. Pinton, Social Welfare Officer IV at the Department of Social Welfare and Development, discussed handling special and vulnerable cases. Meanwhile, Ms. Moira L. Ediesca, OIC-Chief of the Employment Standards Division in the LAB/AKSYON Unit, presented the OFW Welfare Monitoring System and the creation of Welfare Action Plans.

Jhoaden "Jao" G. Lucero, MM, EnP, CESO IV, Regional Director at DMW RO-VII, expressed his inspirational message using the acronym CLADS, which stands for Caring and Clarity, Love, Abide, Document and Duty Bearers, and Service.

Group discussions and case study presentations were conducted to demonstrate learnings from the training. The training marked the 11th batch to be conducted, with the first batch held in the Visayas region.

The DMW expressed its gratitude towards CLADS, resource speakers, and WeDOs for their active participation and commendable service in ensuring the welfare and protection of OFWs. This training is a testament to the continuous efforts to empower WeDOs and strengthen their role in supporting the well-being of our valued OFWs.

Development and Modernization of Work (DMW) and its partner, CLADS, have been launched in the Visayas region to enhance services for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)