𝐂𝐀𝐏𝐈𝐓𝐎𝐋 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐍𝐆𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐍𝐒 𝐒𝐔𝐏𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐎𝐅𝐖𝐬 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐁𝐀𝐘𝐀𝐍𝐈𝐇𝐀𝐍 𝐎𝐍𝐄-𝐖𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐎𝐖 𝐃𝐄𝐀𝐋
Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro reaffirmed Cebu’s commitment to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) as she led the signing of a landmark agreement with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and other local government units, emphasizing faster, more coordinated government support for the country’s migrant workforce.
The agreement institutionalizes a province-wide, multi-agency referral system that streamlines services for OFWs—from welfare assistance to reintegration—while strengthening campaigns against illegal recruitment and human trafficking.
“Today is both a signing and a commitment to stand by every Filipino who continues to sacrifice for their family and for our country,” Gov. Baricuatro said, stressing that the partnership reflects a shared responsibility to protect migrant workers.
The event, held at the Capitol Social Hall on March 31, gathered key stakeholders, including Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado, Siquijor Governor Jake Vincent Villa, and Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Cindi Chan who also committed to helping implement the agreement in their respective jurisdictions.
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
Organized by DMW Region 7 under Regional Director Jhoaden Lucero, the project is also supported by other regional agencies, including DOH, DOLE, DSWD, TESDA, and OWWA.
Drawing from her experience as a former OFW and flight attendant, Gov. Baricuatro highlighted the emotional toll of working abroad.
“I know how it feels to be away from family, to be tired, homesick, and worried, but to push yourself to still work hard for the family you left home,” she said.
She also acknowledged the growing concerns faced by OFWs, particularly those in the Middle East amid ongoing tensions.
She assured OFWs that the provincial government is closely monitoring developments and coordinating with national agencies for timely support.
“As your governor, . . . I want you to know this: You are not alone,” she said. “We are monitoring the situation closely, coordinating with national agencies, and preparing the support our people may need,” she added.
STREAMLINING SERVICES THROUGH BAYANIHAN
Central to the agreement is the Bayanihan One-Window Assistance Program, an ICT-based system designed to streamline government services for OFWs.
The platform features a single-entry system, automated referrals, and real-time tracking, enabling faster and more efficient delivery of welfare, livelihood, and reintegration services while reducing bureaucratic delays.
The agreement also strengthens anti-illegal recruitment and trafficking efforts, enhances public awareness campaigns, and ensures coordinated enforcement operations. It adopts a full-cycle reintegration strategy, including employment facilitation, skills training, career coaching, and possible financial assistance, guided by the values of bayanihan and malasakit.
“This is why this One Window Bayanihan Assistance Program of the Department of Migrant Workers matters. It brings help closer, faster, and more organized — so no OFW is left behind,” the governor said. | CAPITOL PIO
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