NEWS ARTICLES:
1. DMW, CIDG shut down Cubao agency for alleged illegal recruitment on social media - (GMA News Online)
  • The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW formerly POEA) and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) shut down a recruitment agency in Cubao, Quezon City after finding it allegedly recruiting Filipino workers via social media without the proper license.
  • The agency was reportedly offering overseas job placements in countries such as Greece, Hong Kong, and Qatar, despite not being authorized to operate as a licensed recruiter.
  • Authorities conducted an entrapment operation to close the office and are continuing to assist affected applicants while reminding the public to transact only with licensed agencies.
2. Hiring of Filipino nurses in US slowing down amid longer visa processing — PNAA - (GMA News Online)
  • Filipino nurses preparing to work in the United States are experiencing longer waits for visa approvals, with processing times now taking months or even years, according to the Philippine Nurses Association of America (PNAA).
  • PNAA President Dr. Marlon Saria noted that while stricter U.S. immigration policies do not directly target Filipino nurses, the extended review periods are delaying deployment and could have ripple effects on staffing in U.S. healthcare facilities.
  • Some qualified nurses are unable to travel to the U.S. despite meeting requirements, highlighting ongoing challenges in the visa process that may contribute to shortages and longer waiting times for employment abroad.
3. OWWA ready to assist Filipino nurses affected by New York City hospital strike - (GMA News Online)
  • The Overseas Workers Welfare Association (OWWA) expressed readiness to assist Filipino nurses affected by the massive hospital strike in New York City, where around 15,000 nurses walked out over issues like staffing and benefits.
  • OWWA said it can provide legal and financial assistance to qualified Filipino nurses who may be displaced or in need of support during the strike, working alongside the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW formerly POEA).
  • The agency’s offer of help aims to support affected nurses as they navigate work disruptions and ensure they can access available welfare services.
4. DMW and JITCO advance unified ethical recruitment framework for Filipino workers in Japan - (The Filipino Times)
  • The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW formerly POEA) and the Japan International Trainee & Skilled Worker Cooperation Organization (JITCO) agreed to strengthen a unified ethical recruitment framework to protect Filipino workers heading to Japan, focusing on transparency and welfare.
  • The commitment was formalized during a February 6 meeting at the DMW Central Office in Mandaluyong City, with senior officials from both organizations present.
  • The collaboration aims to support safe and ethical employment pathways under programs such as the Technical Intern Training Program (TITP), Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) program, and Employment for Skills Development (ESD) program for Filipinos abroad.
5. DMW cites comprehensive assistance to increased OFW deployment in Calabarzon - (Philippine Information Agency)
  • The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW formerly POEA) credited strengthened government programs with supporting increased deployment of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) from the CALABARZON region, which contributed the largest share of OFWs in 2024 at 20.5?percent of the national total.
  • According to Philippine Statistics Authority data, Asian countries—especially Saudi Arabia and the UAE—remain top destinations for OFWs, while enhanced DMW services have helped equip workers with in?demand skills and welfare support.
  • The comprehensive assistance provided includes skills training, legal and welfare support, onsite and post?arrival services, and emergency response, reinforcing the competitiveness and global demand for Filipino workers.

 

Stay updated with the latest overseas recruitment and trends. Follow us on all our socials!