The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) launched a series of healthcare and employment initiatives Tuesday aimed at expanding support and reintegration pathways for overseas Filipino workers (OFW) and their families.

The agreements were finalized during the opening day of the two-day Migrant Workers Health Summit at the Occupational Safety and Health Center in Quezon City.

Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac and Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa signed a memorandum of understanding to improve medical repatriation protocols, develop wellness programs and assist returning healthcare workers with local integration.

Cacdac also signed the implementing guidelines for the “Sa ‘Pinas, Ikaw ang Nurse at Allied Health Professional ng Bayan” program.

The initiative is designed to help returning migrant nurses and medical technicians transition smoothly into the Philippine healthcare sector.

To address broader employment needs, the DMW signed a pact with SteelAsia Manufacturing Corp., represented by chairperson and CEO Benjamin Yao, to create local jobs for returning workers from various industries.

A separate agreement with Healthway Medical will provide free primary healthcare services to migrant workers and department personnel through a mobile medical caravan.

During the summit, 16 beneficiaries from the National Capital Region received financial assistance under a joint program with the Department of Education that helps licensed migrant teachers secure teaching positions in local public schools.

The summit also provided free health services to hundreds of attendees. The offerings included risk assessments for diabetes and hypertension; screenings for HIV, tuberculosis, and cancer; teleconsultations; and childhood vaccinations.

Supporting services and checkups were provided by PhilHealth, the Social Security System, the Professional Regulation Commission, and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office.