Various groups of Overseas Filipino Workers and their leasers from the Middle East and in the country led by industry leader Lito B. Soriano. an Ex-OFW himself have requested President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. to appoint a new and permanent Secretary for the Department of Migrant Workers.
In a letter bearing the group’s letterhead “Kay BBM Lagi” the Ex-OFW leaders and current OFWS working in Saudi Arabia made this appeal to select a new head of the DMW which had been vacant since the death of the late Secretary Ma. Susana Ople who passed away last August 22, 2023.
While President Marcos had appointed Undersecretary Atty. Hans Cacdac as Officer-in-chare the OFW sector believes that it is high time that a regular/permanent Secretary be namd tt thi s time.
Citing a few court cases the leaders believe that the a regular Secretay will be able to perform and implement the several functions of the office while an OIV is limited to administrative matters
1. To provide the leadership and objectives of the DMW
2. To provide executive direction, supervision and control
3. To assume the chairmanship of OWWA ab attached agency if the DMW
4. Many other powers and duties enumerated in the R.A 11641 creating te Department of Migrant Powers
The leaders reminded the President that one month from now the country will commemorate Presidential Decree 442 the New Labor Code which was signed on May 1, 1974 50th Anniversary by the ; President Ferdinand Marcos, Sr containing the foundation of OEP (Overseas Employment Program)
President Marcos, Jr. should appoint a new Secretary preferably one with knowledge and experience in the Overseas Employment Program
Lastly the OFW leaders epressed their confidence and trust with the President who will appoint someone whp will look after for the welfare and protection of the millions of Filipino workers all over the world.
