Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac visited the home of Nanay Celia, the mother of Mary Jane Veloso, in General Natividad, Nueva Ecija, 22 November 2024.

Secretary Cacdac and his team were warmly received by Nanay Celia and Tatay Cesar Veloso, who expressed deep gratitude upon learning the good news that their daughter, Mary Jane, would be coming home soon. The couple was immensely thankful to President Marcos for the positive development and to Secretary Cacdac for personally visiting them to ensure the welfare of Mary Jane’s family and the future of her children.

“We are here to provide all the welfare assistance that the government can offer to Mary Jane’s family as directed by the President,” said Secretary Cacdac.

During his visit, he promised to provide psychosocial counseling for Mary Jane’s eldest son, Daniel, as well as skills training through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), along with allowances to help him focus on his studies. DMW also distributed TESDA training vouchers to the Veloso family.

Additionally, the DMW provided financial assistance and a grocery pack.

Secretary Cacdac emphasized that the DMW would continue working closely with the Veloso family, ensuring they have access to government programs such as medical assistance and other support programs that can improve their welfare and future prospects.

Dr. Emanuel San Juan, Municipal Administrator of General Natividad in Nueva Ecija, represented Mayor Anita Arocena during the visit. He reaffirmed their commitment to support the Veloso family through employment assistance and skills training from TESDA.

In addition to the welfare support provided to the family, Secretary Cacdac was able to speak with Veloso’s sister, who is working in Riyadh. She shared concerns about her employer and her desire to return home.

Secretary Cacdac advised her to remain calm and wait for the visit of MWO officers, who would arrange for her safe repatriation.

“Hopefully, we can bring her home before Christmas,” Cacdac assured Nanay Celia and the family.

Secretary Cacdac also promised to refer the medical concerns of her grandchildren to the Department of Health (DOH).

“This visit is a testament to our ongoing commitment to the welfare of our overseas workers and their families. We will not leave them behind, and we will continue to extend support to Nanay Celia and her family, especially in helping them secure a better future for her grand children,” Secretary Cacdac said.

The visit concluded with a “salo-salo” (gathering) over lunch with the Veloso family, courtesy of the municipal government and PESO.

The DMW remains dedicated to empowering the families of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) like the Velosos, providing not only emotional support but also practical assistance in navigating the challenges they face.