The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is the primary Philippine government executive agency protecting the rights and promoting the welfare of OFWs. The government created the DMW to consolidate all overseas labor departments into a single, unified entity.
This consolidation streamlines the process of overseas employment, handling everything from recruitment and deployment to repatriation and reintegration. For any Filipino planning to work abroad, the DMW is the main regulatory body that ensures their safety, fair treatment, and legal documentation.
Services
The DMW provides a comprehensive suite of services designed to support workers at every stage of their overseas journey.
- Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) Issuance: The department issues the OEC, which serves as an exit clearance and proof of legal recruitment.
- Agency Regulation and Licensing: The DMW strictly monitors, licenses, and regulates private recruitment agencies to prevent exploitation.
- Anti-Illegal Recruitment and Trafficking: Workers receive legal assistance to file cases against illegal recruiters and human traffickers.
- Repatriation Assistance: The agency coordinates the safe return of distressed workers, especially those caught in conflict zones, abusive employment situations, or medical emergencies.
- Reintegration Programs: Returning workers get access to training, financial literacy, and livelihood programs to help them settle back into the Philippines.
What to Expect as an OFW
Processing your overseas employment through the DMW ensures a safe, regulated, and well-documented experience. Here’s what you can expect:
- Grievance Mechanisms: Get help addressing issues like contract violations, delayed wages, or unsafe working conditions through DMW’s direct mediation and complaint services.
- Compliance with Labor Standards: Your employment contract will meet the minimum labor standards set by both the Philippines and your host country.
- Mandatory Preparation Seminars: Attend the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) to help you adapt to the cultural and legal environment of your destination.
- Ongoing Support Abroad: Access assistance through foreign-based labor offices after deployment.
OWWA and DMW Partnership
The DMW operates as the parent executive department, while the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) functions as its attached agency. They work together closely, but they handle different aspects of your overseas journey.
The DMW manages the regulatory side. This includes policies, recruitment rules, licensing, and direct labor disputes. OWWA manages the welfare fund. Supported by member contributions, OWWA provides specific financial benefits, insurance, disability aid, death benefits, and scholarships for the dependents of OFWs. Together, the DMW secures your legal and labor rights, while OWWA acts as your social and financial safety net.
MWO Offices Abroad Full List
The Migrant Workers Office (MWO) absorbed the functions of the former Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLO). These offices serve as the DMW’s operating arms abroad. Below is the global list of MWO locations where workers can seek immediate on-site assistance:
Middle East & Northern Africa
- United Arab Emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai
- Saudi Arabia: Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar
- Other Gulf Nations: Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman
- Levant & North Africa: Lebanon, Jordan, Israel, Morocco
Asia & the Pacific
- East Asia: Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan (Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung), Japan (Tokyo, Osaka), South Korea
- Southeast Asia: Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei
- Oceania: Australia (Canberra), New Zealand (Wellington)
Europe & the Americas
- Europe: United Kingdom (London), Italy (Rome, Milan), Spain (Madrid), Germany (Berlin), Greece (Athens), Switzerland (Geneva), Czech Republic (Prague)
- North America: USA (Washington D.C., Los Angeles, New York), Canada (Toronto, Vancouver)
Contact Information
Workers and their families can reach out to the DMW through several official channels for immediate support, inquiries, or emergency assistance.
- Main Office Address: EDSA corner Ortigas Avenue, Mandaluyong City, Philippines
- DMW Hotline: 1348
- Email for Assistance: repat@dmw.gov.ph (for repatriation) or info@dmw.gov.ph (general inquiries)
- Official Facebook Account: Department of Migrant Workers – Republic of the Philippines (facebook.com/dmw.gov.ph)
FAQs
What happened to the POEA?
The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) no longer exists as a separate entity. The government merged it, along with several other overseas labor offices, to form the DMW.
How do I get an OEC?
You can process your OEC through the DMW’s online portal (DMW e-Registration). You must upload your verified contract, visa, and passport details for evaluation.
Can the DMW help me if I am a victim of illegal recruitment?
Yes. The DMW has a dedicated Anti-Illegal Recruitment Branch that helps victims file formal complaints, track down illegal agencies, and pursue legal action against scammers.
What is the difference between DMW and MWO?
The DMW is the main government department based in the Philippines. The MWO (Migrant Workers Office) refers to the physical branches of the DMW located in different countries around the world.
How do I reach the DMW during an emergency abroad?
You should immediately contact the MWO assigned to your host country. Alternatively, your family in the Philippines can call the 1348 hotline to report your situation to the main office for immediate coordination.