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Filipino Times
03-06-2025
- Politics
- Filipino Times
DMW celebrates 30 years of honoring OFWs, reaffirms pledge to safeguard rights and opportunities
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) paid tribute to the resilience and dedication of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) as it marked the 30th Migrant Workers Day, reaffirming its commitment to enhancing opportunities and protection for OFWs and their families, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive. During the kick-off ceremony, DMW Officer-in-Charge Undersecretary Bernard P. Olalia emphasized that the celebration is not only a reflection on the past three decades but also a strong affirmation of the agency's continued promise to serve OFWs more efficiently and compassionately. 'This occasion is both a look back on 30 years of service and a renewed commitment to deliver faster, more heartfelt service to every OFW,' Olalia said. The weeklong celebration, leading up to Migrant Workers Day, features a wide array of activities meant to honor OFWs, recognized as modern-day heroes for their critical contributions to the development of both the Philippines and their host countries. Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) Secretary Dante 'Klink' Ang II, the event's guest of honor, highlighted the importance of a collaborative approach in serving overseas Filipinos. He referenced key government efforts such as the Interagency Council Against Trafficking and the Interagency Council on the Rights of Overseas Filipinos as vital to improving safety and services for Filipinos abroad. Ang also acknowledged the bravery of OFWs and introduced Philippine Schools Overseas (PSOs), which serve Filipino communities abroad by promoting diaspora engagement and empowering migrants and their families. The celebration began with the launch of a photo exhibit showcasing 30 years of labor migration milestones, alongside events such as the National Reintegration Network Serbisyo Fair and the Balikbayan Bazaar. Health services, wellness programs, and entertainment activities will be held at the DMW Central Office in Mandaluyong and at all regional and overseas offices throughout the week. Migrant Workers Day, celebrated every June 7 under Republic Act No. 8042, honors the enduring sacrifices and achievements of OFWs. The DMW encourages all OFWs and their families to participate and benefit from the free services and events happening from June 2 to 7.
GMA Network
25-05-2025
- GMA Network
BI steps up measures to halt fake travel documents
The Philippines is intensifying its efforts to combat the use of fake travel documents, with authorities warning that trafficking syndicates are becoming 'sophisticated' in their exploitation operations at the country's borders. The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) has issued an advisory to the public following reports of travelers using counterfeit CFO certificates, falsified employment contracts, and forged overseas work permits. 'We cannot become complacent,' CFO Secretary Dante 'Klink' Ang II said in a press release as he urged Filipinos to stay vigilant and transact only through legitimate channels. According to the BI, recent cases intercepted by immigration authorities include groups posing as church missionaries who were later revealed to be recruited for illegal jobs abroad. In relation to this, Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado emphasized that the bureau has intensified border inspections at major airports and seaports. He also underscored that these cases highlight the urgent need for the agency's ongoing modernization efforts. 'Modernizing the systems of the BI has always been my drive. We are operating on an 85-year-old law, and our technologies are almost outdated,' Viado said. The BI is also deploying more personnel at major airports as it expands the use of biometric systems and collaborates closely with the CFO, Department of Foreign Affairs, and law enforcement agencies to detect forged papers before travelers leave the country. —Anna Felicia Bajo/RF, GMA Integrated News
