23/02/2026
Seeking to bolster the protection of its modern-day heroes, the Sangguniang Panlungsod has approved Ordinance No. 211, Series of 2026, institutionalizing a dedicated Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Help Desk to provide a localized safety net for migrant workers and their families. Through this ordinance, Ormoc City not only honors the sacrifices of OFWs, but also concretely strengthens local mechanisms for their protection and reintegration, highlighting the city's commitment to ensuring that no migrant worker is denied access to justice or support due to poverty or lack of support therof.
Authored by SP Member Krizea Caessandra “Kia” Mercadal, this legislation aims to establish a frontline facility under the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) that will handle integrated welfare services, legal referrals, and repatriation assistance. The measure comes as a response to the growing number of Ormocanon OFWs-recorded at over 7,500 as of late 2025—who continue to face systemic challenges such as contract substitution, unpaid wages, and various forms of exploitation despite their massive economic contributions. This legislation The speaks of OFWs being so much more than just sources of remittances, they are heroes and big contributors to the families in the communities. By linking the help desk to national databases from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the ordinance intends to provide a proactive shield against illegal recruitment through regular pre-employment orientation seminars and updated listings of licensed agencies.
