Abu dhabi: The Philippines has officially taken over the chairmanship of the Abu Dhabi Dialogue (ADD), a platform designed to facilitate cooperation and dialogue among Asian countries involved in labor migration. This development marks a significant step in strengthening the protection and welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
According to Philippines News Agency, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac announced at a press briefing that the Philippines will hold the chairmanship for three years. This follows the 8th ministerial meeting of the Dialogue, which took place on February 1 in the United Arab Emirates, with participation from 14 member states. The Philippines was elected to chair the 9th ministerial meeting, scheduled for 2028.
The ADD, established as a voluntary consultative forum, connects labor-sending countries in Asia with Gulf labor-receiving states. It includes 20 member states, with seven countries of labor destination such as Bahrain, Kuwait, and the UAE, and 11 countries of origin, including the Philippines, India, and Vietnam. Regular observers include the International Organization for Migration and the International Labour Organization.
Under the Philippines' leadership, the ADD will focus on several thematic areas, with the welfare and protection of OFWs being a top priority. Other areas of focus include bridging education and employment through skills development, promoting safe and ethical recruitment, enhancing social protection, and adapting to the future of work, including digitalization and gig work.
Cacdac emphasized the importance of robust and active leadership during the Philippines' tenure and expressed optimism about the upcoming meetings addressing these critical issues, culminating in the 9th ministerial meeting in 2028. The Philippines will host this meeting, where discussions will be held on thematic areas and a declaration will be formulated to guide future policies and programs among ADD member states.
He also highlighted the Philippines' strong track record in migration governance, recognized globally since the time of former President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. The country has maintained a Tier 1 status for 11 years in the U.S. State Department Trafficking in Persons Report due to its effective anti-illegal recruitment and anti-human trafficking policies.
Cacdac reiterated the country's commitment to upholding the welfare and protection of OFWs and its role as a leading advocate for safe and ethical labor migration pathways.
