New OFW Global Centre in Hong Kong Unveiled by DMW—One-Stop Support Hub for Migrant Workers

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has formally opened the first-ever OFW Global Centre in Hong Kong to provide better government service to members of the Filipino migrant worker community. The facility stands tall on the 18th floor of the United Centre, right in the heart of Admiralty. The facility is to be a one-stop space for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) that includes documentation processing, financial assistance, medical assistance, legal assistance, and free training, along with a lounge called the Migrant’s Brew that will have unlimited coffee and computers.

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The launch was made possible by the presence of Philippine Consul General to Hong Kong Romulo Victor M. Israel Jr., Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac, House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, Representative Yedda Marie K. Romualdez, and OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan. The event gathered approximately 400 OFWs, organizational leaders, partner agencies, and stakeholders.

The establishment of the Global Center demonstrates President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s commitment to giving OFWs holistic support. Secretary Cacdac stated that the government is mandated to help OFWs in distress, as well as to check on their families to prioritize their welfare.

At the event, Speaker Romualdez reaffirmed support from Congress for any legislation that would help OFWs. “Every drop of your tears is not wasted when you’re trying to give a better life to your families. We, the government, will look after your rights and your dreams. Let this center and the establishment of the center be a symbol that promises a real service, not just words.”

The event also included the presentation of HKD 116,316, around PHP 825,000, to aid 11 OFWs from the Agarang Kalinga at Saklolo Para sa mga OFWs na Nangangailangan (AKSYON) Fund and fits the government’s aspiration to ensure immediate assistance/relief for OFWs who are in need of immediate support.