The rollout of standard employment contracts for Filipino seafarers and migrant fishers marked a key milestone as the country observed the 31st anniversary of the Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipino Act of 1995.
The law, considered a landmark measure for the protection of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), laid the foundation for a rights-based framework that later led to the creation of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).
“Isang taos-pusong pagpupugay at pasasalamat sa ating mga kababayang OFWs sa kanilang di-matatawarang sakripisyo para sa pamilya at ekonomiya ng bansa,” Senator Joel Villanueva said.
The senator said the DMW and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) must continue to ensure that OFWs are safe, protected and properly assisted wherever they are in the world.
He also cited the creation of the Agarang Kalinga at Saklolo para sa mga OFWs na Nangangailangan or AKSYON Fund, a specialized welfare, legal and emergency assistance mechanism for distressed OFWs, as among the measures intended to strengthen government support for Filipino workers abroad.
The DMW and OWWA have also expanded repatriation programs, skills training and other assistance services for migrant workers.
Among the latest developments is the long-awaited Standard Employment Contract for Filipino seafarers and migrant fishers, which seeks to provide stronger safeguards for their welfare and rights.
“Sa ating mga mangingisda at mandaragat sa ibayong dagat — hindi kayo nakakalimutan. Ang SEC ay proteksyon para sa inyong kagalingan at karapatan,” the solon said.
Congress is also expected to continue its oversight role in efforts to prevent excessive charges on OFW remittances.
One pending priority measure is the OFW Remittance Protection Act, which seeks to protect the hard-earned money sent home by Filipino workers abroad. The bill was passed by the Senate on third reading in March 2026.
“We know that behind every remittance is a story of sacrifice and love for the family. We owe our OFWs not just gratitude, but stronger protection,” the senator added.