Mandaluyong city: The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) opened the Philippine-Finland Friendship Week on Tuesday to celebrate and strengthen the bilateral relations between the two nations. During the event in Mandaluyong City, DMW Undersecretary Dominique Rubia-Tutay emphasized the event’s role in highlighting the diplomatic relations between Manila and Helsinki. She noted that both countries are finalizing a new bilateral labor agreement focused on ethical recruitment and skills development.

According to Philippines News Agency, the two countries recently signed a joint declaration of intent to promote fair, ethical, and sustainable labor mobility. This agreement ensures that Filipino workers are afforded proper protection, dignity, and competitive salaries, based on their skills and experience. Tutay mentioned that a detailed agreement outlining pilot areas of cooperation will soon be signed and implemented by both countries. This will enhance Finland’s labor force in sectors such as healthcare, information technology, service, and retail, while providing employment opportunities for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

Tutay expressed that the partnership is a testament to the achievements possible when countries collaborate with mutual trust, respect, and a shared vision for growth and human-centered development. She highlighted the aspirations to create opportunities that uplift lives and strengthen communities, with Finland viewed as a beacon of opportunities for OFWs.

Finnish Ambassador to the Philippines Saija Nurminen commended the contribution of Filipino workers to Finland’s workforce and economy. She recognized the Philippines as a key partner and an ideal source of hardworking and adaptable workers, emphasizing the significance of the Filipino people.

Tutay reported that there are currently over 16,000 Filipinos in Finland, with 11,500 deployed in 2024 alone. As part of the friendship week, the DMW will host a mega jobs fair on Wednesday at the SM Megamall, featuring six accredited agencies interested in hiring for technical roles. The DMW advised applicants to register online to acquire a Job Fair Pass/QR Code for easier access.