12/05/2026
ASENSO ADMINISTRATION, DMW STRENGTHEN SUPPORT FOR RETURNING OFWs IN MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL
via Bhal Cabrera | May 12, 2026
MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL, Philippines — Even beyond the country’s borders, the Asenso administration continues to extend support and protection to Misamisnons working abroad.
On Friday, May 8, the Provincial Government of Misamis Occidental, under the leadership of Governor Henry S. Oaminal, welcomed officials from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) for a courtesy and coordination meeting focused on the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), particularly those affected by the ongoing tensions and conflict in the Middle East.
During the meeting, DMW Regional Director Emmanuel Toledo, together with officials from the agency’s Protection Division, updated Governor Oaminal on the government’s ongoing repatriation efforts for Filipinos affected by the crisis.
Among those assisted were 31 OFWs from Misamis Occidental who have safely returned home and are now being coordinated with their respective local government units for immediate assistance and intervention.
The returning OFWs were also referred to various government support mechanisms, including livelihood and reintegration programs under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
Officials emphasized that while safely bringing OFWs home remains a top priority, helping them rebuild their lives and transition back into their communities is equally important.
“Another purpose of this visit is to strengthen and formalize our partnership with the provincial government of Misamis Occidental, especially since we have many OFWs here in the province. In this endeavor, we want our reintegration program to become more proactive,” Toledo said.
Through the DMW’s reintegration initiatives, the Asenso administration aims to help returning OFWs regain stability and explore new opportunities within Misamis Occidental.
Recognizing the growing number of Misamisnon migrant workers, discussions were also opened regarding the possible establishment of a DMW help desk in the province — a move expected to make government assistance and migrant services more accessible to OFWs and their families.
The DMW likewise encouraged Misamisnons to participate in the upcoming National Reintegration Network Fair on May 19 in Cagayan de Oro City, a job fair offering both local and overseas employment opportunities.
The meeting reflects the continuing efforts of both the DMW and the Asenso administration to ensure that even far from home, Misamisnons remain seen, supported, and cared for.