5 days ago
PH, Liberia Boost Labor and Maritime Partnership
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and Liberia's Ministry of Labour are working to strengthen cooperation in promoting safe and ethical migration, with a focus on protecting the rights and welfare of both land-based and sea-based overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac recently met with Liberian Labour Minister Hon. Cllr. Cooper W. Kruah, Sr., along with Liberian Maritime Authority Deputy Commissioner John F. Harvey, to explore a bilateral labor agreement between the two nations.
Recognized as a strategic gateway to West Africa, Liberia offers potential in both labor opportunities and maritime importance. Many Filipino seafarers serve aboard Liberia-flagged ships passing through the Freeport of Monrovia—a vital safe anchorage and boarding point for international voyages.
The strengthened partnership will enhance labor protection, ensure compliance with global maritime labor standards, and improve welfare support for OFWs. For land-based workers, the bilateral pact will promote fair recruitment, safeguard labor rights, and expand access to welfare services.
Secretary Cacdac's visit marks the first by a high-ranking Philippine official to Liberia in pursuit of safe, orderly, and regular migration. This initiative aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s goal of deepening labor relations with host countries while upholding ethical recruitment practices. The Philippine delegation included senior DMW officials and was supported by the Philippine Honorary Consul in Liberia.
