The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) reaffirmed its commitment to delivering fast, compassionate, and people-centered services for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families in 2026.

During the agency’s first flag-raising ceremony of the year in Mandaluyong City, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac emphasized the Department’s “red carpet, not red tape” approach in serving migrant workers throughout their journey.

“The department is the first responder to the needs of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families,” Cacdac said.

Guest speaker Rev. Fr. Carmelo “Tito” Caluag, executive director of Caritas Philippines, underscored the value of compassion and mercy in public service, particularly when entering the “chaos” of another person’s life. He urged DMW personnel to reflect on their mission to respond to the needs of migrant workers and their families, while addressing the social costs of labor migration, including the absence of mothers working overseas.

Cacdac said Caluag’s message reinforces the DMW’s mission-driven service and sets the tone for the year, highlighting compassion, responsiveness, and shared responsibility for the dignity and well-being of OFWs and their families.

The DMW also recognized offices and frontline personnel for exemplary performance under the Agarang Kalinga at Saklolo para sa mga OFWs na Nangangailangan (AKSYON) Fund. The National Capital Region (NCR) distributed the highest amount of assistance at over P106 million, followed by Regional Office 6 (Western Visayas) with P89.3 million and Regional Office 3 (Central Luzon) with P61 million.

Regional Office 3 served the most beneficiaries at 5,033, while NCR assisted 1,838 and Regional Office 2 (Cagayan Valley) supported 1,821.

During the holiday period, NCR helped 4,202 clients, followed by Regional Office 7 (Central Visayas) with 1,762 and the DMW Pre-Employment and Government Placement Bureau with 1,024.

Cacdac also acknowledged offices and personnel who provided frontline services from Dec. 29, 2025, to Jan. 2, 2026.

“These recognitions emphasize DMW’s strong commitment to its role as the government’s primary responder for OFWs, ensuring that timely support reaches those most in need,” he said.