DMW Region VI

01/06/2026

DMW-NIR Kicks Off the 31st National Migrant Workers’ Day Celebration with Health and Wellness Program

The Department of Migrant Workers – Negros Island Region (DMW-NIR) officially launched its weeklong celebration of the 31st National Migrant Workers’ Day on June 1, 2026, through a meaningful Health and Wellness Program held at the DMW-NIR Office, Gaisano Grand Mall, Bacolod City.

The weeklong celebration will run from June 1 to 5, 2026, featuring a series of activities and services aimed at recognizing the invaluable contributions of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), promoting their welfare, and strengthening support for their families and communitities.

Anchored on the theme “Bayan, Bayani, Bayanihan,” the activity underscored DMW-NIR commitment to safeguarding the well-being of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families by promoting health awareness and access to essential healthcare services.

The program featured free medical check-ups and consultations conducted by Dr. Rosalie Deocampo and Dr. Babylin D. Drilon, who generously shared their expertise and provided health assessments and medical advice to participating OFWs and clients. Dr. Deocampo also conducted a comprehensive orientation on the PhilHealth YAKAP Program, equipping attendees with valuable information on healthcare benefits and services available to migrant workers and their dependents.

To further enrich the event, OFW clients and participants were treated to free snacks and coffee, while an exhibit showcasing locally made OFW products highlighted the entrepreneurial achievements of returning and reintegrated migrant workers.

More than just a health activity, the program served as a platform for empowering OFWs with knowledge and resources to prioritize their physical well-being. By providing opportunities for health screening and professional medical consultation, DMW helps ensure that OFWs can make informed decisions about their health and receive appropriate medical recommendations when needed.

As the celebration continues throughout the week, DMW remains steadfast in honoring the invaluable contributions and sacrifices of Filipino migrant workers—our modern-day heroes—through programs that promote protection, empowerment, and holistic well-being.

01/06/2026

Kape at Kabuhayan: DMW RO VI Opens Migrant Workers Week Celebration with Barista Training and Personality Development Session

DMW RO VI, through its Welfare and Reintegration Services Division (WRSD), officially kicked off the 2026 Migrant Workers Week Celebration with the conduct of a Technical and Soft Skills Training Program featuring a Barista Training and Personality Development Orientation on June 1, 2026, at the TESDA Iloilo Provincial Office in Santa Barbara, Iloilo.

The activity gathered solo parent OFWs, returned OFWs, and their family members, particularly those currently engaged in café-related enterprises and aspiring entrepreneurs interested in venturing into the growing coffee business industry.

The one-day training aimed to equip participants with practical skills, industry knowledge, and personal development competencies that can help them pursue livelihood opportunities and strengthen their entrepreneurial capabilities. The technical training on coffee preparation and barista fundamentals was facilitated by trainers from TESDA PTC-Iloilo, who also generously provided the training materials and venue for the activity.

In his message of support, TESDA Iloilo Provincial Office Acting Provincial Director, Porferio C. Celestial, emphasized that the training serves as a gateway for participants to enhance their skills and broaden their exposure to the coffee industry, which continues to experience significant growth and popularity. He encouraged participants to maximize the opportunity to learn and explore the potential of coffee-related enterprises as a viable source of income and sustainable livelihood.

Meanwhile, WRSD Chief Joseph M. Areno underscored the importance of skills development as a valuable investment that participants can carry throughout their lives. He highlighted that the knowledge, competencies, and practical experiences gained from the training can help improve their employability, support their entrepreneurial aspirations, and contribute to their long-term economic stability and reintegration.

Complementing the technical component of the program was a Personality Development Orientation conducted by a resource speaker from the TESDA RTC-Iloilo. The session focused on enhancing participants' self-confidence, professional behavior, communication skills, work ethics, and customer relations—essential soft skills that contribute to success in both employment and business endeavors.

To further support participants who wish to deepen their competencies in the field, TESDA also provided an opportunity for interested individuals to enlist in the upcoming Barista NC II Training Program, a 23-day competency-based course designed to develop advanced skills and prepare learners for national certification.

Through initiatives such as this, DMW Regional Office VI continues to strengthen its commitment to empowering OFWs and their families by providing access to skills training, livelihood opportunities, and personal development programs that promote sustainable reintegration and economic resilience.

29/05/2026

𝑲𝒖𝒏𝒈 𝒌𝒂𝒚𝒂 𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒔𝒖𝒎𝒂𝒃𝒂𝒚 𝒔𝒂 𝒂𝒍𝒐𝒏 𝒏𝒈 𝒅𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒕, 𝒌𝒂𝒚𝒂 𝒎𝒐 𝒓𝒊𝒏 𝒔𝒖𝒎𝒂𝒃𝒂𝒚 𝒔𝒂 𝒇𝒍𝒐𝒘 𝒏𝒈 𝒏𝒆𝒈𝒐𝒔𝒚𝒐. 𝑺𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒓𝒈𝒚, 𝒅𝒊𝒇𝒇𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒃𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆𝒇𝒊𝒆𝒍𝒅 𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒈.

So if may business idea ka na naglalaro na sa mind mo, baka this is your sign to finally give it a shot.

Join the LIKHAng Marino Business Plan Competition Now!

Baka next time, ikaw na ang nagkukwento ng success story mo FROM SEAFARER TO ENTREPRENEUR.

𝑲𝒖𝒏𝒈 𝒌𝒂𝒚𝒂 𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒔𝒖𝒎𝒂𝒃𝒂𝒚 𝒔𝒂 𝒂𝒍𝒐𝒏 𝒏𝒈 𝒅𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒕, 𝒌𝒂𝒚𝒂 𝒎𝒐 𝒓𝒊𝒏 𝒔𝒖𝒎𝒂𝒃𝒂𝒚 𝒔𝒂 𝒇𝒍𝒐𝒘 𝒏𝒈 𝒏𝒆𝒈𝒐𝒔𝒚𝒐. 𝑺𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒓𝒈𝒚, 𝒅𝒊𝒇𝒇𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒃𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆𝒇𝒊𝒆𝒍𝒅 𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒈.

So if may business idea ka na naglalaro na sa mind mo, baka this is your sign to finally give it a shot.

Join the LIKHAng Marino Business Plan Competition Now!

Baka next time, ikaw na ang nagkukwento ng success story mo FROM SEAFARER TO ENTREPRENEUR.

𝗗𝗘𝗔𝗗𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗘 𝗢𝗙 𝗦𝗨𝗕𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡: June 15, 2026
𝗥𝗘𝗚𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥 𝗡𝗢𝗪: https://sites.google.com/dmw.gov.ph/likha-ofw?usp=sharing

28/05/2026

𝗗𝗠𝗪 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗩𝗜 𝘀𝘂𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗳𝘂𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝗘𝗻𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗢𝗙𝗪 𝗥𝗲𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 (𝗘𝗟𝗣𝗢𝗥) 𝘁𝗼 𝟲𝟬 𝗢𝗙𝗪𝘀

The Department of Migrant Workers Regional Office VI successfully awarded the Enhanced Livelihood Program for OFW Reintegration (ELPOR) to sixty OFWs who intend to start and strengthen their own businesses as part of their reintegration journey.

Prior to the awarding, the beneficiaries participated in learning sessions designed to strengthen their entrepreneurial capacity and financial preparedness. Ms. Sherlyn Canales, Business Counselor from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) discussed Financial Awareness and Managing a Business, emphasizing proper financial planning, budgeting, savings, and effective business management strategies essential in sustaining a livelihood venture.

Meanwhile, Ms. Jhoanna N. Bolencis, Senior Science Research Specialist from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), facilitated the Packaging 101 Seminar and introduced the iFWD PH Program, highlighting the importance of product packaging, labeling, branding, and innovation in improving product quality and marketability. The session also encouraged participants to explore science and technology-based interventions to support product development and business growth.

The activity provided the ELPOR beneficiaries with seed capital amounting to Php 15,000.00 to support the start of their business ventures. More importantly, they were capacitated with entrepreneurial skills that they can apply in building sustainable and long-term sources of income for themselves and their families.

Through the ELPOR, DMW continues to support returning and displaced OFWs by providing opportunities that promote financial stability, entrepreneurship, and long-term reintegration.

28/05/2026

DMW Regional Office VI conducts Pre-Migration Orientation Seminar in Estancia, Iloilo

On May 25–26, 2026, the Department of Migrant Workers Regional Office VI successfully conducted a Pre-Migration Orientation Seminar (PMOS) in Estancia, Iloilo for prospective Overseas Filipino Workers OFWs and their families.

The PMOS aims to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and preparedness before pursuing overseas employment. Discussions focused on the recruitment process, preparation for working overseas, realities and challenges of working abroad, financial management, and the important roles and responsibilities of family members left behind.

The activity formed part of the initiative of the Local Government Unit of Estancia, Iloilo through its Public Employment Service Office (PESO) to empower and prepare their constituents for safe, informed, and responsible migration.

Also present during the activity were representatives from Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and PESO Iloilo Province to show support and further deepen discussions on programs and services available for OFWs and their families.

Participants shared that after the session, they gained a better understanding of the realities of overseas employment and felt more prepared and confident in making informed decisions for their future and their families.

The DMW and its partner agencies continue to conduct programs and activities that strengthen the preparedness, protection, and overall success of every Filipino migrant worker throughout their OFW journey.

27/05/2026

DMW Region VI Equips ISAT U Graduating Students Through Career Readiness Seminar on Overseas Employment Awareness

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Region VI reaffirmed its commitment to empowering future professionals through active participation in the Career Readiness Seminar conducted by ISAT University on May 27, 2026, attended by approximately 750 graduating students.

The seminar gathered various government agencies and partners, including DOLE, CSC, DICT and PESO Iloilo City to provide students with valuable insights and opportunities relevant to their future careers.

During the activity, DMW Region VI discussed the Pre-Employment Orientation Seminar (PEOS), emphasizing the realities, processes, challenges and opportunities of working overseas. The discussion aimed to equip graduating students with the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions and become better prepared for employment opportunities abroad.

Through this initiatives, DMW Region VI continues to strengthen its advocacy of promoting safe, informed, and responsible overseas employment among aspiring Filipino professionals.

27/05/2026

DMW Regional Office VI Joins Grand EODB Fair, Brings Services Closer to OFWs

The Department of Migrant Workers Regional Office VI participated in the Grand EODB Fair: A One-Stop Shop for Government Services held on May 25–26, 2026, in celebration of Ease of Doing Business Month. The event gathered various government agencies to provide faster, more accessible, and citizen-centered public services.

During the two-day activity, DMW Regional Office VI set up a dedicated help desk to assist Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), returning migrant workers, and their families. The help desk provided assistance on processing of Overseas Employment Certificates (OECs), E-Registration services and legal assistance, addressing concerns related to labor issues, recruitment concerns, contract-related matters, and migrant worker welfare.

The office also promoted reintegration programs designed to support returning OFWs through livelihood opportunities, referrals, and other available interventions aimed at helping them rebuild and sustain their lives back home.

Through its participation, DMW Regional Office VI underscored its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of OFWs while ensuring accessible and responsive government services. The activity also strengthened public awareness of DMW programs and highlighted the agency’s vital role in delivering compassionate, people-centered assistance to Filipino migrant workers and their families.

25/05/2026

DMW RO VI CONVENED THE 1ST SEMESTER MEETING OF THE SUB-COMMITTE ON INTERNATIONAL MIGRATION AND DEVELOPMENT

The Department of Migrant Workers Regional Office VI (DMW RO6) successfully convened the 1st Semester Meeting of the Sub-Committee on International Migration and Development (SCIMD) on May 21, 2026 at the DMW Conference Room, Plazuela Dos, Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

As the current Chair of the sub-committee, the DMW Regional Office VI led the meeting with the participation of regional counterparts from key member agencies including the Bureau of Immigration (BI), Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

Expanded partner agencies and stakeholders also joined the meeting, namely the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Justice - Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (DOJ-IACAT), Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), Anti-Trafficking in Persons Network (ATIP Network), CBCP-Episcopal Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People (CBCP-ECMI), and PhilHealth.

The meeting tackled the 2025 Region VI Migration Situationer and Inter-Agency Response, PhilHealth updates on medical assistance programs for OFWs, expansion of SCIMD membership, and preparations for upcoming migrant-related observances and celebrations.

Regional Director Glenda M. Aligonza emphasized the importance of strengthening inter-agency collaboration in addressing the evolving migration landscape. “Today, we lay down our baseline, align our targets for the upcoming semesters, and address the pressing bottlenecks in our regional migration landscape.”

She further highlighted that Region VI remains among the top sources of Overseas Filipino Workers in the country, stressing that OFWs are not just economic statistics but literal lifelines of many families in our communities and vital contributors to our local economy.

Director Aligonza also underscored the value of collective action among stakeholders, stating: “No single agency can do this alone. Every single agency present here today is important, and we are thankful for the commitment and the shared passion to build a seamless ecosystem of support for our Overseas Filipino Workers and their families.”

The discussions also highlighted ongoing efforts against illegal recruitment and trafficking in persons, strengthened reintegration programs for returning OFWs, enhancement of grassroots information campaigns, data consolidation initiatives, and expanded assistance services through partner agencies and local government units.

Through strengthened collaboration and shared commitment, the SCIMD, led by the DMW, continues to advance responsive, inclusive, and people-centered migration governance for the welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers and their families in Western Visayas.

21/05/2026

🌊 CALLING ALL QUALIFIED OFW SEAFARERS! 🌊

Ready to turn your business dream into reality?

The LIKHAng MARINO Business Plan Competition is now officially OPEN for applications!

This is your chance to showcase your entrepreneurial ideas and win up to ₱100,000 SEED CAPITAL as the Regional Winner — plus the opportunity to represent Region VI in the National Competition!

🏆 National Prizes Await:
🥇 1st Prize – ₱500,000
🥈 2nd Prize – ₱300,000
🥉 3rd Prize – ₱200,000

📌 Who Can Apply?
✅ Open to all documented OFW seafarers
✅ Returned to the Philippines on or after December 30, 2021
✅ No existing formal or registered business venture in the Philippines
✅ Must not have gone overseas again for employment since returning

📅 Deadline of Submission: June 15, 2026

📍 Visit our Office for guidance and assistance:
Welfare and Reintegration Services Division
Department of Migrant Workers – Region VI & NIR

📌 ILOILO OFFICE
2nd Floor, Plazuela Dos
Benigno Aquino Ave., Brgy. San Rafael, Mandurriao, Iloilo City

📌 BACOLOD OFFICE
2nd Floor, Gaisano City Grand Mall
Singcang-Araneta St., Bacolod City

📞 For inquiries:
0966-052-2189
0991-269-4291

📲 Scan the QR Code to register!

💼 Don’t miss this opportunity to build a sustainable future, start your own business, and create success right here at home.

20/05/2026

DMW Regional Office VI conducted the KUMUSTAHAN: Post-Repatriation Orientation Seminar (PROS) for OFWs recently repatriated from the Middle East

A total of 20 repatriated OFWs from the Middle East participated in the KUMUSTAHAN: Post-Repatriation Orientation Seminar (PROS), a participant-centered orientation designed to provide psychosocial support, reintegration guidance, and economic recovery interventions for returning OFWs.

An inspiring Message of Support from DMW Regional Director Glenda M. Aligonza highlighted the Department’s steadfast commitment to assisting repatriated OFWs through programs and services that promote healing, empowerment, and sustainable reintegration. WRSD Chief Joseph M. Areno also encouraged the participants as they begin their journey of rebuilding and moving forward after repatriation.

Through interactive discussions and supportive sessions, participants were guided in processing their experiences, reconnecting with available support systems, and identifying practical next steps toward a fresh start.

Participants were likewise introduced to the Committee on Alternative Labor Market Interventions (CALMI), which serves as a safety net for returning OFWs by linking them to local employment opportunities and alternative labor markets abroad, helping strengthen their pathways back into gainful employment.

The 20 repatriated OFWs from the Middle East also received assistance under the Enhanced Livelihood Program for OFW Reintegration (ELPOR) to help them start livelihood ventures and rebuild their economic stability as they reintegrate into their families and communities.