To further protect the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced on Friday that various key government agencies signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to enhance efforts to combat illegal recruitment and human trafficking.

“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,” President Marcos said in his speech during the distribution of Agarang Kalinga at Saklolo sa mga OFWs na Nangangailangan (AKSYON) Fund Assistance to OFWs and their families in San Fernando City, Pampanga.

Marcos said the MOA aims to promote more precise and closer coordination among concerned government agencies to ensure the safety and security of Filipinos seeking to go abroad. This will also provide mechanisms to support victims and prosecute criminals.

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

Marcos directed agencies involved in the implementation of the MOA to carry out their duties with compassion, integrity, and efficiency.

“Sa bawat desisyong ating gagawin, lagi nating iisipin kung papaano natin mapapaglingkuran ang ating kapwa Pilipino na may dignidad at malasakit,” the President said.

“Magsilbi tayong solusyon, hindi dagdag na pampahirap,” the Chief Executive stressed.

The President again acknowledged the sacrifices and significant contributions of OFWs to the country’s development, and assured them of unwavering support. Presidential News Desk