Northern mindanao: The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) launched the "Kabalikat" program here on Monday to enhance the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families and beneficiaries across Northern Mindanao. The program aims to promote safe, fair, and ethical recruitment practices while providing direct assistance and reintegration support to OFWs.

According to Philippines News Agency, DMW Assistant Secretary Jerome Alcantara led the launch, highlighting a conversation and assistance program tailored for migrant workers. The initiative also focuses on protecting OFWs and potential applicants from illegal recruitment activities, especially those initiated through social media platforms. Alcantara emphasized the agency's agreement with Facebook and TikTok to remove any reported illegal recruitment activities.

Moreover, the DMW is set to assist families of OFWs, with mechanisms to address situations where overseas workers refuse to support their dependents. Such cases could result in flagged individuals facing potential deportation by their respective agencies.

Kabalikat stands as a regional convergence and stakeholder engagement initiative, uniting local government units, licensed recruitment agencies, and migrant welfare advocates. The program is designed to intensify anti-illegal recruitment campaigns and extend support to the families of OFWs.