The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has issued a clear and direct order to its personnel worldwide: prioritize the needs of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) above all else. This mandate was delivered by Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac during the agency's 2025 Command Conference held in Pasay City earlier this week.
A Directive for Compassion and Action
Addressing officials and staff from the 42 Migrant Workers Offices (MWOs) across the globe, Cacdac emphasized their critical role as frontline responders. "We must provide caring and prompt response to the needs of OFWs," he stated. The Secretary left no room for ambiguity, instructing everyone, regardless of their specific role, to "go out of your way to respond" whenever an OFW requires assistance.
Cacdac framed the mission in unequivocal terms, declaring, "We are all first responders." This philosophy is intended to reshape the operational culture of the MWOs, which serve as the DMW's operating arms in their respective international jurisdictions.
Legal Work as 'Heart Work' for OFWs
The conference also highlighted the vital role of legal professionals attached to the MWOs. Secretary Cacdac addressed both MWO legal retainers and in-house lawyers, urging them to look beyond the technicalities of the law. He stressed the importance of the humanitarian aspect in their duties.
"Legal work is technical work, but at the end of the day, it is heart work," Cacdac explained. "We do not only work with our minds, but with our hearts. We do this not just for institutions or governments, but for our people, our OFWs." The ultimate goal, he added, is to ensure that justice, protection, and dignity are always within reach of every OFW.
Asia Dominates as Primary OFW Destination
The call for enhanced service comes as recent data underscores the massive scale of Filipino migration. Statistics for 2024 confirm that Asia remains the primary destination for OFWs, hosting 74.5 percent of all workers abroad.
The top destination countries are:
- Saudi Arabia leads as the top destination, accounting for 21.9 percent of OFWs.
- The United Arab Emirates (UAE) follows closely, with 12.4 percent of OFWs.
This geographical concentration in the Middle East and Asia highlights the critical importance of the MWOs stationed in these regions. The DMW's directive is a direct response to the needs of the vast Filipino communities in these areas, reinforcing the government's commitment to their welfare and protection wherever they are in the world.
