The Ugnayan Center, a community shelter in Taiwan, has formalized a renewed commitment to assist distressed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) through the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MoA) with key government agencies.

The MoA was signed with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the Migrant Workers Office (MWO), and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), strengthening coordination in providing shelter and continued assistance to OFWs in need, particularly those in Taiwan.

The signing ceremony was attended by Ugnayan Center founder, Fr. Joy Tajonera, representatives from the partner agencies, and OFWs currently residing at the Ugnayan shelter. The agreement underscores a shared commitment to protecting the welfare of migrant workers and responding promptly to their needs.

Fr. Tajonera expressed his gratitude during an episode of Usapang OFW, acknowledging the role of the agencies and the program in making the partnership possible.

“Thank you to Sec. Hans, DMW, Usapang OFW for helping Ugnayan to continue to serve our kababayans, especially in Taipei and Taichung and in the whole of Taiwan,” Fr. Tajonera said.

He emphasized that open communication and dialogue were crucial in reaching the agreement, noting that the collaboration extends beyond mere institutional benefit.

“And because you helped us reach the DMW, the dialogue happened, the communication happened, and the decision happened. This is for everyone, not just for Ugnayan, but more especially for OFWs who need assistance today and tomorrow,” he added.

Usapang OFW host Chingbee Fernandez reaffirmed the program’s role in bridging concerns between OFWs, institutions, and government agencies.

“That’s our role, that’s why we are here. To help, to mediate, and to bring the message across,” Fernandez said.

The MoA signing marks a significant step in ensuring continuous support for distressed OFWs, reinforcing Ugnayan Center’s mission to provide shelter and guidance for Filipinos working abroad.