DMW Trese

10/04/2026

10/04/2026

𝗗𝗠𝗪 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗮 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘆 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗮𝗼 𝗱𝗲𝗹 𝗦𝘂𝗿 𝗟𝗚𝗨𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗢𝗙𝗪 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀

Led by Regional Director Ritchel M. Butao, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Caraga conducted a series of courtesy visits to the Municipalities of Cortes, Lanuza, Carrascal, and Cantilan in Surigao del Sur on April 7–8, 2026.

The visits aimed to present and advocate for the proposed Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between DMW Caraga and the respective Local Government Units (LGUs), in order to formalize partnerships and strengthen the delivery of programs and services for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families. In the Municipality of Cortes, this initiative was highlighted through the presentation of the proposed MOA during a Special Sangguniang Bayan (SB) Session, along with lobbying efforts for the establishment of an OFW Help Desk as a vital frontline service at the local level.

During the discussions, Regional Director Butao emphasized the importance of close coordination with LGUs to ensure accessible, responsive, and efficient service delivery at the community level.
The proposed partnership includes key initiatives such as the establishment of OFW Help Desks, strengthened campaigns against illegal recruitment and trafficking in persons, and the implementation of pre-employment, employment, and livelihood programs, providing support across all stages of migration, from preparation and deployment to reintegration.

Municipal officials expressed their support for the initiative, recognizing the significant contribution of OFWs to local and national development and the need to institutionalize mechanisms that protect their welfare and rights.

Through this collaboration, DMW Caraga reaffirms its commitment to delivering responsive government services and promoting the protection, welfare, and long-term empowerment of OFWs and their families through sustained local partnerships.

08/04/2026

08/04/2026

𝗔𝗗𝗩𝗜𝗦𝗢𝗥𝗬 | 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗖𝗹𝗼𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗔𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗹 𝟵, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲

Please be informed that DMW Caraga will be closed on Thursday, April 9, 2026 in observance of Araw ng Kagitingan, pursuant to Proclamation No. 1006, s. 2025.

Regular office operations will resume on Friday, April 10, 2026.

For urgent concerns and immediate assistance, especially related to the ongoing Middle East situation, our help desk hotlines remain available.

08/04/2026

30/03/2026

📢 ADVISORY | DMW CARAGA

In observance of Holy Week and pursuant to Proclamation No. 1006, s. 2025, please be informed that DMW Caraga will be closed from April 2–5, 2026 (Thursday to Sunday).

Regular office operations will resume on Monday, April 6, 2026.

For urgent concerns and immediate assistance, especially related to the ongoing Middle East situation, our hotlines are open and ready to help.

27/03/2026

𝗗𝗠𝗪 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗮 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗱𝘀 “𝗞𝘂𝗺𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗵𝗮𝗻” 𝗰𝘂𝗺 𝗣𝘀𝘆𝗰𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻 𝗢𝗙𝗪𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘀

In line with its commitment to promoting the holistic well-being of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families, and in celebration of Women’s Month, DMW Caraga conducted a “Kumustahan” cm Psychosocial Support Session for 18 women OFWs and their family members on March 27, 2026, held at the DMW Caraga Conference Hall.

The session was facilitated by Ms. Marissa A. Garay, RSW, Supervising Labor and Employment Officer (LEO) of DMW Caraga, who delivered a psychosocial support session focusing on the importance of mental health, self-care, and recognizing one’s roles within the family and in the community. She highlighted the significance of personal well-being through reflective prompts such as “Para kanino ka bumabangon?” and emphasized that one cannot pour into others from an empty cup, underscoring the need to care for oneself first in order to fully support others.

The activity created a safe and supportive space where participants openly shared their experiences, family roles, and personal insights gained from the session, fostering meaningful dialogue and emotional connection among attendees.

One of the participants, OFW Marivic R. Ombrero, a former domestic worker in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), shared her journey of sacrifice while working abroad. She recalled how most of her earnings were spent on supporting her family, often leaving little for herself. Now reunited with her loved ones, she expressed gratitude for being in a more stable situation, sharing that her family now encourages her to enjoy life and prioritize self-care.

As part of the initiative, each participant received a Kalinga Kit, symbolizing DMW Caraga’s continued care and support for OFWs and their families.

In her closing remarks, DMW Caraga Regional Director Ms. Ritchel M. Butao emphasized that the agency continues to initiate programs like the “Kumustahan” sessions to regularly check on returning OFWs and support their overall well-being as they reintegrate into their communities.

The session concluded with participants expressing their gratitude for the opportunity to reflect, share, and learn, highlighting the importance of valuing and caring for themselves to better support their families and communities. Through initiatives like this, DMW Caraga reaffirms its commitment to delivering not only essential services but also meaningful support that strengthens the emotional and mental resilience of OFWs and their families.

26/03/2026

𝗗𝗠𝗪 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗮 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗖𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗼 𝟭𝟵𝟯 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗱𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝗽-𝗘𝗱'𝘀 𝗕𝗮𝗴𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘀 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗯𝗶𝘀𝘆𝗼 𝗙𝗮𝗶𝗿

Strengthening its commitment to providing accessible and efficient support for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and aspiring migrants, DMW Caraga participated in the Dep-Ed's Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair on March 25, 2026. Held at the Lope A. Asis Memorial Gymnasium in Bayugan City, the event enabled the agency to bring its core services directly to the community, ensuring faster and more responsive assistance. A total of 193 participants attended the event, gaining valuable insights on safe migration and employment preparedness.

As part of its engagement, DMW Caraga conducted the AIRTIP (Anti-Illegal Recruitment and Trafficking in Persons) and Pre-Employment Orientation Seminar (PEOS) to equip participants with essential knowledge on safe migration, employment preparedness, and awareness on illegal recruitment and human trafficking. In addition, a One Stop Shop Service was set up to cater to various client concerns, providing on-site assistance and information on DMW programs and services.

The event also gathered multiple government agencies, creating a convergence of services aimed at addressing the diverse needs of the public under one venue.

Representing Regional Director Ritchel M. Butao, Mr. Eval B. Makinano, Chief Labor and Employment Officer (LEO) of the Welfare and Reintegration Services Division, delivered an inspiring message. He emphasized the agency’s continued efforts in safeguarding the welfare of OFWs and promoting informed decision-making among aspiring migrant workers. He was joined by Ms. Apple Mae S. Tandoy and Mr. Ian Joshua E. Paqueo, both Labor and Employment Officers III, who assisted in the conduct of the activities and delivery of services.

Participants of the activity included senior high school students from Fili National High School and senior high school graduates from Agusan del Sur College, Inc., who actively engaged in the sessions and availed of the services offered.

Through its participation in the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair, DMW Caraga continues to strengthen its outreach efforts, ensuring that vital information and government services reach communities and empower future members of the workforce.

24/03/2026

𝟯𝟲 𝗢𝗙𝗪𝘀, 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗦𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴

A total of 36 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families participated in the Financial Awareness Seminar and Small Business Management Training (FAS-SBMT) conducted by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Caraga on March 24, 2026, at the DMW Caraga Training Hall.

The whole-day activity aimed to strengthen financial literacy and entrepreneurial capacity among participants as part of their reintegration journey.

The program opened with remarks from Regional Director Ritchel M. Butao, who emphasized the value of financial awareness in achieving long-term stability for OFWs and their families, and encouraged participants to apply the knowledge and insights gained from the session in building and sustaining their future businesses.

The main session on Financial Awareness and Small Business Management was facilitated by Ms. Elyn Rose A. Ranario, Trade and Industry Development Specialist – Negosyo Center of the Department of Trade and Industry – Agusan del Norte Provincial Office, covering practical strategies on budgeting, saving, and managing small enterprises. The discussion continued in the afternoon, allowing participants to further enhance their knowledge on financial planning and business development.

Participants also gained insights on available government support through a presentation on SB Corporation programs and services delivered by Mr. Juniel Paran, P3 Provincial Coordinator.

The activity concluded with closing remarks from Mr. Eval B. Makinano, Division Chief of the Welfare and Reintegration Services Division (WRSD), followed by the awarding of certificates to participants.

With programs like FAS-SBMT, DMW Caraga equips OFWs and their families with practical financial skills and entrepreneurial know-how, paving the way for lasting economic stability and self-reliance.

23/03/2026

Building Career Readiness and Financial Discipline Among Children of OFWs at PNU Mindanao

A learning session for children of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) was successfully conducted on March 18, 2026, at the Philippine Normal University Mindanao Campus (PNU Mindanao), focusing on career readiness and financial literacy. The activity aimed to equip participants with essential life skills to confidently navigate future opportunities.

This session is part of the continuing initiative of DMW Caraga under its Capacity Building Program for Children of OFWs, which provides holistic support to OFW families by strengthening the knowledge, skills, and values of their children. Through structured modules, the program addresses key areas such as career preparedness, personal development, and financial management to better equip participants for the future.

The program featured two sessions led by academic experts, covering career planning and financial management.

Session 1: “INTERNSHIP TO EMPLOYMENT: Preparing for the Workforce as an OFW Child” was delivered by Mr. Cornelio Lantajo-Labao Jr., Associate Professor V of PNU Mindanao. The session guided participants in transitioning from academic life to employment by leveraging internship experiences and developing clear, purposeful career pathways.

An opening activity encouraged participants to reflect on their long-term goals by completing the statement, “When I look back 10 years from now, I want to be known as someone who…” This exercise introduced the importance of vision and purpose in shaping career decisions.

Key learning points emphasized that internships serve as a bridge to real-world experience, while effective career planning requires clarity of goals and adaptability to evolving global trends. Participants were encouraged to identify their personal strengths and interests and to develop actionable career plans aligned with their values and aspirations.

The session also highlighted that being a child of an OFW is a source of strength. Qualities such as resilience, independence, and adaptability, shaped by their unique experiences, were recognized as valuable assets in the workplace. Mentorship, networking, and continuous learning were likewise underscored as essential tools for career growth.

Session 2: “SMART SPENDING, SAVING & SUPPORTING: Budgeting on an OFW Allowance” was facilitated by Ms. Mildred Roa Veronas, a faculty member of PNU Mindanao. The session emphasized responsible management of remittances, noting that every peso sent by OFW parents reflects hard work and sacrifice.

Participants learned practical budgeting techniques, including the 50-30-20 rule, and were guided in distinguishing between needs and wants. The discussion also addressed common financial challenges such as debt traps, lifestyle inflation, and unnecessary spending. Emphasis was placed on setting realistic savings goals, maintaining financial discipline, and promoting responsible support within the family.

The activity reinforced the importance of career readiness and financial responsibility among OFW children, ensuring they are well-equipped to build secure and meaningful futures. It also affirms the continued commitment of DMW Caraga to empower OFWs and their families through sustained, relevant, and impactful programs.

19/03/2026

19/03/2026

𝗗𝗠𝗪 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗮 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝘀 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻’𝘀 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗵 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 “𝗛𝗨𝗗𝗬𝗔𝗞𝗔 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲” 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) – Regional Office XIII (Caraga) celebrated National Women’s Month 2026 with a vibrant and engaging series of activities from March 16 to 19, 2026, under the theme “Lead like the Babaylans, Filipinas.” The celebration, known as HUDYAKA 2026, highlighted the agency’s commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women through meaningful Gender and Development (GAD) initiatives.

The opening program on March 16, 2026 kicked off HUDYAKA 2026 with welcome remarks from Mr. Eval B. Makinano, Chief Labor and Employment Officer, followed by an energetic group chant that set the festive tone. DMW personnel actively participated in various competitions including poster making, essay writing, darts, and a Mobile Legends tournament, fostering creativity, teamwork, and camaraderie among staff.

As part of the celebration, DMW Caraga personnel also attended a Gender Sensitivity Training on March 17, 2026, aimed at strengthening their capacity to deliver responsive and inclusive services. The activity provided valuable insights on gender awareness and reinforced the importance of respect and inclusivity in public service.

HUDYAKA 2026 culminated on March 19, 2026, featuring engaging activities such as chess, word factory, spelling bee, and quiz bee. These competitions not only encouraged learning and healthy competition but also reinforced the significance of women’s leadership and active participation in all sectors.

Through HUDYAKA 2026, DMW Caraga strengthened its commitment to promoting gender equality, inclusivity, and empowerment within the workplace while enhancing services for OFWs and their families. The celebration served as a reminder of the agency’s dedication to creating an environment where women are recognized, valued, and empowered to lead.