In a decisive move to protect the rights and welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced a new inter-agency collaboration aimed at intensifying the fight against illegal recruitment and human trafficking.

Speaking during the distribution of Agarang Kalinga at Saklolo sa mga OFWs na Nangangailangan (AKSYON) Fund Assistance to OFWs and their families, President Marcos revealed that several key government agencies have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to launch coordinated programs in partnership with the provincial and local governments of Pampanga.

“Sa ilalim ng kasunduang ito, magpapatupad ang mga kasaping ahensya, katuwang ang lokal na pamahalaan ng Pampanga, ng mga programa laban sa illegal recruitment at human trafficking,” the President said, emphasizing the importance of unified action.

The MOA seeks to establish tighter coordination among agencies to ensure the safety of Filipinos seeking employment abroad, while also providing support mechanisms for victims and pursuing legal action against perpetrators.

Signatories to the agreement include the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and the Pampanga provincial and local governments.

President Marcos urged all participating agencies to carry out their responsibilities with compassion, integrity, and efficiency. “Magsilbi tayong solusyon, hindi dagdag na pampahirap,” he stressed.

He also paid tribute to the sacrifices of OFWs, acknowledging their vital role in national development. “Hindi matutumbasan ng anumang salita ang aming pasasalamat sa inyong sakripisyo… ginagawa ng pamahalaan ang aming makakaya upang patuloy kayong suportahan sa loob at sa labas ng bansa,” the President affirmed.

The initiative marks a renewed commitment to safeguarding the dignity and rights of Filipino workers, reinforcing the government’s pledge to serve with empathy and resolve.