Latest news with #OverseasFilipinoWorker
GMA Network
7 days ago
- GMA Network
DMW: 2 recruitment agencies suspended, 1 nabbed for illegal recruitment in Manila
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) suspended two recruitment agencies and arrested one person for allegedly engaging in illegal recruitment. In a statement Tuesday, DMW said it conducted a surprise inspection of recruitment agencies at the Gedisco Center in Malate, Manila on Monday. DMW said it found two recruitment agencies allegedly engaged in multiple violations, including the employment of unregistered personnel and the operation of an unregistered accommodation facility. 'Kaya dapat walang labis o kulang sa talaan ng DMW, dahil kung labis o kulang posibleng may illegal recruitment na nangyayari. Dapat kilala natin ang taong nagre-recruit, dapat lehitimo. Kung ang isa doon ay walang lisensya o ang may lisensya ay nagpapagamit ng kanyang lisensya ito ang kabit system,'' Cacdac said. (Reports to the DMW should be exact, because if there is too much or a lack of information in records, illegal recruitment could be taking place. We should know the people involved in the recruitment. They should be legitimate. If a recruiter does not have a license or is allowing another person to use their license, then they are employing a 'kabit' system.) During the operation, DMW also rescued an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) allegedly recruited through Facebook. DMW said the OFW will receive aid from the agency. Meanwhile, the DMW caught a suspect allegedly conducting recruitment activities despite being unregistered as an employee of the agency. 'May isa naman doon nag-a-apply, nirefer siya ng illegal sa labas, isang form ng 'kabit system.' Posibleng may opisina doon, o dili kaya nire-refer niya, kaya kasabwat ang legal ng illegal,' Cacdac said. (A person was applying. He was referred by the illegal recruiter. This is a form of 'tie up' system. Possibly, there is an office there or he was referred, so the legal and illegal recruiters are accomplices.) Cacdac reminded that agency personnel are prohibited from recruiting outside their registered office or in areas without an official branch. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA Integrated News
GMA Network
22-05-2025
- Politics
- GMA Network
Israel envoy wraps up 4-year stint in PH amid Independence Day commemoration
Outgoing Israeli Ambassador Ilan Fluss onstage with First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos on Thursday, May 22, 2025. Jiselle Anne C. Casucian/ GMA Integrated News Israel Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss on Thursday commemorated Israel's 77th National Independence Day as he begins to wrap up his four-year stint in the country. During the celebration in Makati on Thursday, Fluss shared that he was a 'balikbayan diplomat,' having worked in the Philippines in the 90's before he was named ambassador in 2021. 'In the 90s, Manila was a different world. No MRT or BGC… Brown-outs were a part of daily life. Our kind neighbors then shared with us a generator so we could have electricity and water. But, the Filipino people haven't changed. They are still the nicest people on earth,' he said. 'Congratulations for the progress of this amazing country… Our hearts never truly left this country. We've always felt a strong bond with the Philippines, a country whose warmth, hospitality, and family values mirror those of Israel,' he added. The outgoing ambassador also highlighted that the partnership between the Philippines and Israel resulted in the creation of 3.5-hectare greenhouse Metro Pacific Fresh Farms (MPFF) in Bulacan, and noted plans of producing a modern dairy farm sometime in the future. Fluss also prayed for 58 remaining hostages in the Israeli-Hamas war and remembered notable individuals during the October 7 Hamas attacks, particularly Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) Camille Jesalva, who helped her 95-year-old employer by giving her savings to a Hamas member, 'We pray for the return of the remaining 58 hostages from the end of this war, and we continue to pray for peace,' he said. Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Civilian Security and Consular Affairs Jesus Domingo acknowledged the connection between Philippines and Israel, noting that it was rooted in history. 'We recall with pride the Philippines's open-door policy, offering refuge to the Jewish people fleeing the Holocaust, and our crucial vote in favor of the United Nations Resolution 181, which paved the way for Israel's recognition as a nation-state. These historical cornerstones form a bedrock where strong bilateral ties,' he said. Domingo said that the partnership between the two countries continue in several sectors, including Agriculture, Technology, and Security. 'Our people-to-people connections continue to strengthen, fostered by tourism, public exchanges, and the shared democratic values that underpin our societies. We are both people of song, and one thing that we Israelis and Filipinos, we love a good song." He added that while Fluss would be a 'tough act to follow,' the country looks forward to continued collaboration with the Embassy in the future. 'As we look to the future, the Philippines is committed to further strengthening this multi-faceted partnership. We are confident by continuing to work together, we can achieve greater prosperity and security for both our nations, and contribute positively to the global community… And may the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the Philippines and Israel continue to flourish in the years ahead,' he said. First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos was also in attendance during the event, joining a toast on stage and receiving a token of appreciation filled with vegetables from MPFF. She also joined Fluss and other officials of the embassy by testing out a hologram of Fluss powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) with a series of questions. Israel celebrates its independence day in the same month as Palestinians commemorate the Nakba, or "catastrophe," the violent mass displacement and dispossession of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in 1948, during the war at the birth of what is now the state of Israel. Israel is also conducting a military assault and blockade of Gaza, with the declared intent of targeting Hamas within the Palestinian enclave. It has struck hospitals, schools and refugee camps, killing tens of thousands of Palestinians including thousands of women and children. South Africa has filed a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, accusing it of genocide against the Palestinian people. Israel Embassy mourns fallen colleagues in Washington During his speech, Fluss condemned the killing of two staff members of the Israel Embassy on Wednesday evening in Washington, DC. 'I have to share the shocking news of two colleagues, employees of the Israeli Embassy in Washington, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, who were murdered just a few hours ago because they were working at the Israeli Embassy,' he said. 'I want to send my condolences to the families. We condemn this act of terrorism, but we will not let terrorism and antisemitism win,' he added. Israeli flags were placed at half-mast during the event as a sign of mourning. Domingo also extended condolences on behalf of the DFA and the Philippines. 'Join me also in wishing our condolences and prayers to our Philippine colleagues in Washington, D.C.,' he said. Lischinsky and Milgrim were fatally shot outside an event at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, DC. "Harming diplomats and the Jewish community is crossing a red line. We are confident that the US authorities will take strong action against those responsible for this criminal act,' Israeli ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon said in a post on X. — BM, GMA Integrated News
Filipino Times
12-05-2025
- General
- Filipino Times
Skills training in baking: OFWs join embassy workshop in celebration of OWWA anniversary
On 9th May 2025, 37-year-old Francis Llaneta, an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW), undertook a 1.5-hour bus journey from his home in Malkiya to the Philippine Embassy in Manama, located in Adliy, demonstrating his dedication to acquiring new skills. He was one of 38 attendees enthusiastic to learn the art and science of baking. The two-Friday baking skills training initiative is part of the celebrations marking the 43rd anniversary of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). The program scheduled on May 9 and May 23 is jointly coordinated with the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) and Pinay Ikaw Na (PIN), reflecting a collaborative effort to empower the Filipino community overseas. Francis stated in an interview, 'I participated in the training because it presented an opportunity for me to enhance my skills, which I aspire to apply upon my return home.' Francis has been residing in Bahrain for over two years, working as a massage therapist. He was joined by other Filipinos from various professions in Bahrain. The training course also had a multi-gathering group, composed of housemaids, nurses, receptionists, and salesladies united in a common goal of learning something new and broadening their perspective. In her warm welcome address, OWWA Welfare Officer Juvilyn Anns Gumabay expressed OWWA's deep appreciation to both the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) and Pinay Ikaw Na (PIN), acknowledging the synergistic efforts of these organizations in providing comprehensive support and empowering Filipino workers navigating life abroad. Furthermore, Gumabay extended sincere thanks to the attendees for their participation and commitment to learning about and supporting OWWA's programs for OFWs. The presence of the participants signifies a collective desire to contribute to the success and well-being of the Filipino community in Bahrain. The training commenced with a moment of reflection and solidarity with a prayer initiated by Mary Agnes Haydee Dabucol, the auditor of PIN. The activity was joined by a special video featuring OWWA Administrator Arnel Ignacio. In his message, Administrator Ignacio extended his warmest greetings on the occasion of OWWA's 43rd anniversary, highlighting its continued dedication and extensive service to overseas Filipinos. MWO Officer In Charge (OIC), Celia V. Cabadonga's inspirational message underscored the significance of this anniversary, highlighting the continuous dedication and hard work of OWWA in assisting OFWs and their families. For over four decades, OWWA has been a beacon of hope and support for millions of Filipinos who have ventured abroad in search of better opportunities. It has consistently strived to provide a comprehensive range of services, from pre-departure orientation seminars to repatriation assistance, skills training, scholarship programs, and various welfare A representative from the Land Bank of the Philippines was also present to discuss ways to assist migrant workers in saving while employed abroad to ensure their future security. Meanwhile, Dinah Sta. Ana, president of PIN, said, 'This baking training offers the participants a chance not only to learn a valuable skill, but also to network with fellow Filipinos and build a sense of community.' She expressed her sincere gratitude to all the participants for their presence and acknowledged the hard work of the PIN officers who worked diligently to enable the smooth flow of the program, making it successful and effective. Their commitment to community service is proof of PIN's vision to enhance Filipino culture, empowerment, and unity. The baking training aims to equip the participants with practical skills that can benefit from personal enrichment, potential income, or even future entrepreneurial ventures. They will learn the basic baking techniques, recipes, and tips for delectable confections. Attendees were led and guided by Ms. Ivy Ancheta, a professional baking instructor and entrepreneur of IVBakes, who graciously imparted her skills and expertise in the craft to shape her students and transform them into confident creators. Her patient and encouraging teaching techniques created a supportive learning environment, where questions were attended to and slips were seen as opportunities for growth. 'This training is really great help for us. I'm thankful to OWWA and the Philippine Embassy for giving us opportunities like this,' said Victoria Dumrique, the liaison officer of PIN, whose determination reflects the resilience and drive of many Filipinos working overseas. Despite being an experienced baker, Dumrique is eager to learn more techniques and enhance her abilities. For Francis and Victoria, acquiring knowledge and expanding one's knowledge is an affirmation of the Filipino resilience in the challenges of overseas work. Their eagerness to learn and acquire skills manifests a profound aspect of the Philippine diaspora: a firm determination to succeed, to adapt, and to contribute meaningfully to both the Philippines and their foreign home. (Cecil Ancheta)
Gulf News
29-01-2025
- Business
- Gulf News
Peso walks a financial tightrope vs US dollar
Manila: The Philippine peso climbed against the US dollar for the second day in a row on Wednesday (January 28) to 58.388 vs $1, on stronger foreign investment inflows and dollar remittances. The peso has been buoyed up in part by overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who have injected record dollars into the country, alongside higher inflows into Philippine stocks and bonds driven by optimism about economic recovery. Foreign investment inflows jumped $27.7 billion in 2024 (as per Department of Trade and Industry data), up 28 per cent from $21.6 billion in 2023. In 2024, Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) remittances increased by 3 per cent to $31.49 billion from January to October. This was a 3% increase from the $30.57 billion recorded in the same period in 2023. Meanwhile, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has been keeping a high interest-rate regime to curb inflation, adding to the demand for pesos. On average, however, the Philippine currency has been down 4 per cent to 58.388 in January 2025 vs the January 2024 average of 55.972, according to BSP data. Still, the Philippine peso is walking a financial tightrope, inching dangerously close to a nerve-wracking milestone. Analysts predict it could nosedive to Php60 per US dollar by midyear — a drop not seen in ages. Big names like Goldman Sachs, Barclays, and Fitch Solutions are bracing for impact, while DBS Group takes it up a notch, warning the peso might tumble even lower to Php60.8. On Friday, the peso closed at Php58.31 to the dollar, before dropping to Php58.459 on Monday (January 27), before inching higher in the last two days. Still, this rate is uncomfortably close to the all-time low, when 1 Philippine peso was worth 0.0169 US dollar, or $1 = Php58.985, hit on December 19, 2024, as per BSP data. The peso's struggles reflect a broader storm sweeping across Asia as the region grapples with a surging dollar. Markets are rattled by the ripple effects of Donald Trump's presidency, with the peso emerging as one of the hardest-hit currencies. The BSP has stepped into the foreign exchange market, seeking to stabilise the peso's volatility. Since August, the central bank has slashed rates by a total of 75 basis points, aiming to soften the blow. Yet, with geopolitical tensions simmering and US policy trajectories clouded in uncertainty, further rate reductions may be more measured. A critical decision looms on February 13. Industry watchers said the peso breaching 60 pesos-per-dollar remains a very real possibility, hinging largely on the shape of Trump's trade and fiscal policies. Aggressive US tariffs could roil global markets, plunging the peso further while potentially rendering BSP's interventions in the forex market ineffective. All eyes are now on how the geopolitical chessboard plays out — a moment that could tip the scales for the Philippines' currency and economy. Several factors contribute to the peso's decline: Persistent trade deficit: The Philippines consistently imports more than it exports, leading to a trade deficit. To pay for these imports, there is a continuous demand for foreign currencies, particularly the US dollar, which results in the depreciation of the peso. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that the Philippines incurred a trade gap of $54.21 billion in 2024, up by 3.08 per cent from $52.29 billion in 2023, though imports contracted by 1.7 percent in December 2024 to $9.79 billion. Strong US dollar: The strength of the US dollar has been a significant factor in the peso's weakness. As the dollar remains robust, emerging market currencies, including the peso, face depreciation pressures. BNN Anticipation of US economic data, such as inflation reports, influences investor behavior. Concerns that higher US inflation could lead to increased interest rates make investors cautious, affecting currencies like the peso. Finimize Underdeveloped domestic production: The Philippines' underdeveloped agricultural and industrial sectors mean the country relies heavily on imports. This reliance makes the economy vulnerable to external shocks and contributes to the peso's depreciation. These factors collectively exert downward pressure on the peso, leading to its current near-record low levels. Philippine currency snaps short-lived run as rallying dollar overpowers most currencies Manila: Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) could enjoy a virtual pay raise as the peso sank on Thursday, allowing them to get more in local currency for every dollar sent home. This can increase household spending, potentially boosting domestic consumption. The peso hits its record low of Php59.05:$1 on October 9, 2022. The Philippine currency briefly appreciated in recent days, but it was a short-lived run as the rallying dollar overpowered it, drawing strength from recent market and geopolitical developments. Data showed this was the peso's weakest close in 26 months. Additional BSP easing to support the economy coupled with trade jitters stand to exacerbate the downtrend. Philippines may have missed its goal of at least 6% growth last year, an official said Friday. The nation last month widened its projected growth range for 2025 to 6%-8% due to uncertainties over Trump's trade policy. Contributing to the currency's weakness is a deterioration in the current account balance, equities market outflows, and a widening gap in yields with US. The peso 'remains vulnerable, but to a relatively lesser extent than many other Asian currencies,' given the Philippine economy's domestic focus, said Audrey Ong, a strategist at Barclays. 'Less robust external metrics could pose a risk to the peso.' The strong dollar continued to enjoy inflows amid new post-election developments in the United States. The US Federal Reserve announced Wednesday a modest 25-basis-points policy rate cut, its third since the pandemic, but with fewer rate cuts expected in 2025. The US dollar has regained almost all the ground it lost against a basket of global currencies, as president-elect Donald Trump has threatened sanctions on countries that would try to undercut the mighty greenback. A weaker currency means locally-made goods and services become cheaper for foreign buyers, which can boost demand for exports such as electronics, garments, and BPO services. But it may also lead to inflationary pressures and increased costs for imports and debt servicing. At the same time, the BSP might intervene in the foreign exchange market or adjust interest rates to stabilise the peso and control inflation. The net effect, however, depends on how the government, including the BSP, and private sector manage these dynamics.
